Rod Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rohr Dam Jefferson Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rod Lake Dam, located in Jefferson County, Ohio, was completed in 1949 and stands at a height of 41 feet, with a length of 250 feet.
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Summary
Managed by a private owner, this earth dam on Mathews Run serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 7 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Despite its scenic setting, the dam's condition assessment is deemed poor, with a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.
The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The last inspection in June 2019 revealed the dam's poor condition, necessitating attention to ensure public safety and protect the surrounding environment. With its proximity to the city of Pravo and the oversight of state authorities, Rod Lake Dam is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the complexities of dam management, Rod Lake Dam stands as a case study in balancing recreational benefits with the need for robust safety measures. With a significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining aging infrastructure and the importance of regular inspections to mitigate risks. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and integrity of Rod Lake Dam, it remains a key site for understanding the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and public safety in Ohio's landscape.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
MATHEWS RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.65 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Rod Lake Dam