Winchester Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Winchester Lake Dam, located in Adams County, Ohio, is a locally owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1953 by Burgess & Niple, Ltd., the earth dam stands at a height of 28.2 feet and spans 370 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 171 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Turkey Run, offering visitors a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Despite its low hazard potential, Winchester Lake Dam has been rated as being in poor condition, with a last inspection date in April 2018. The dam is state-regulated and monitored by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 1.21 square miles, making it a vital water resource for the community.
Although in need of some maintenance and improvement, Winchester Lake Dam continues to provide a valuable recreational space and water storage solution for the local residents. With its picturesque setting and rich history, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and managing our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
28.2 |
River Or Stream |
TURKEY RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
1.21 |
Nid Storage |
171 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Winchester Lake Dam