Chopper's Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Chopper's Lake Dam, located in Coal Run, Ohio, is a private earth dam completed in 1948 for recreational purposes along the Sugar Run river.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 22.8 feet and a length of 378 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 123.6 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11 acres. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is under state regulation and inspection by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Designed by JOHN LAUGHLIN & MAX FARLEY of the Ohio Department of Highways, Chopper's Lake Dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 70 cubic feet per second and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the Washington County area. The dam is situated within the jurisdiction of the state, with enforcement and permitting conducted by the Department of Natural Resources. Although the dam lacks an emergency action plan and updated risk assessment measures, it remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities.
As a key feature in the landscape of southeastern Ohio, Chopper's Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the region's water management infrastructure and recreational offerings. Despite its age and condition challenges, the dam continues to provide a valuable resource for the local community and visitors alike, showcasing both the beauty and the importance of maintaining and managing water resources in a sustainable manner. For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate issues, Chopper's Lake Dam serves as a case study in the ongoing efforts to balance recreation, safety, and environmental stewardship in dam management.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
378 |
Dam Height |
22.8 |
River Or Stream |
SUGAR RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
0.92 |
Nid Storage |
123.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Chopper's Lake Dam