Powell Crosly Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Powell Crosly Lake Dam, also known as Cincinnati Nature Center Lake, is a private recreational structure located in South Milford, Ohio, within Clermont County.


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Summary

Completed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 43.1 feet and stretches 270 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a normal storage of 42 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water recreation.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Powell Crosly Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in March 2019. Despite moderate risk levels, the dam continues to be a key feature in the local landscape, offering a serene setting for visitors to enjoy nature and outdoor leisure activities.

With a surface area of 4.1 acres and a drainage area of 0.05 square miles, Powell Crosly Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Its association with the Cincinnati Nature Center and proximity to Salt Run tributary makes it a valuable asset for conservation efforts and environmental education. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need to balance recreation with environmental stewardship in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

43.1

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO SALT RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

59

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.