Barhorst Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Barhorst Lake Dam, located in Shelby, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1970.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 114.3 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 172.1 acre-feet. It spans 400 feet in length and stands at a height of 32.6 feet, serving as a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Barhorst Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses moderate risks that are actively managed through risk assessment measures. Although the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam remains a popular recreational spot for visitors, offering a serene environment for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Situated on a tributary to Loramie Creek, Barhorst Lake Dam's location in Newport, Ohio, provides a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and serves as a vital piece of infrastructure for both local communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

32.6

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO LORAMIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.9

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

172.1

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.