Lower Hickory Hills Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lower Hickory Hills Lake Dam, located in Meigs County, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, the dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres. The dam is situated on the tributary Meigs Creek, within the jurisdiction of the Huntington District of the USACE. Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and outlet gates also described as uncontrolled. Although the dam is not regularly inspected and its condition is currently not rated, the risk assessment suggests a moderate level of risk associated with the structure. Emergency action plans and inundation maps have not been prepared for the dam, highlighting the importance of prioritizing safety measures and risk mitigation strategies for this recreational water resource. With its picturesque location and potential for outdoor activities, Lower Hickory Hills Lake Dam presents both opportunities and challenges for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
In terms of federal involvement, the dam does not receive funding, construction, or regulatory oversight from federal agencies. The primary purpose of the dam, as designated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, is for recreation, aligning with its location within a private ownership setting. Despite its low hazard potential and current risk assessment, maintaining the safety and integrity of Lower Hickory Hills Lake Dam will be crucial for preserving the recreational and environmental value it offers to the community.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB MEIGS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.75 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Lower Hickory Hills Lake Dam
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