Clay's Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in Stark, Ohio, Clay's Park Lake Dam stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of Fox Run.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this private-owned Earth dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, with a storage capacity of 199.7 acre-feet and a surface area of 23.5 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, recent assessments have flagged its condition as poor, prompting concerns for its structural integrity.

Located in Crystal Springs, Ohio, this 14.5-foot high dam spans 525 feet in length, with a drainage area of 11.9 square miles. The Department of Natural Resources oversees its state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. However, with a condition assessment revealing vulnerabilities and a poor rating as of July 2020, there is an urgent need for maintenance and potentially an emergency action plan to mitigate risks to downstream communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the state of Clay's Park Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role dams play in managing water resources for both recreational and safety purposes. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam's current state of disrepair raises important questions about the maintenance and upkeep of aging infrastructure in the face of evolving climate patterns. For stakeholders and regulators alike, addressing the poor condition of this dam is not just a matter of safety but a proactive step towards ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the years to come.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

FOX RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23.5

Drainage Area

11.9

Nid Storage

199.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.