Margaret Creek Structure No. 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Margaret Creek Structure No.
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Summary
5, also known as Johnson/French Lake, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Athens, Ohio. Constructed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 600 feet in length, providing storage of up to 416.9 acre-feet of water. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Biddle Creek, with a drainage area of 1.68 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 9573 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, Margaret Creek Structure No. 5 has a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment as of March 2017 was deemed satisfactory. Regular inspections occur every five years to ensure the dam's integrity and safety, with emergency action plans in place to mitigate any potential risks. The structure's moderate risk assessment rating underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to protect the surrounding community and water resources.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the critical role that Margaret Creek Structure No. 5 plays in managing flood risks and safeguarding the local environment in Athens, Ohio. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, this earth dam exemplifies the importance of proactive infrastructure development and maintenance to address evolving climate challenges. As efforts continue to enhance the dam's resilience and emergency response readiness, its impact on water resource management and climate adaptation in the region remains a key focus for stakeholders and regulators alike.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
BIDDLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Drainage Area |
1.68 |
Nid Storage |
416.9 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Margaret Creek Structure No. 5