Switzerland Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Myers Pond Dam Malaga Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Switzerland Lake Dam, also known as Wilson Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Alledonia, Ohio, within Belmont County.
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Summary
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 53.6 feet and has a storage capacity of 697 acre-feet, primarily serving as a water supply source for the surrounding area. The dam spans 625 feet in length, with a surface area of 36.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.47 square miles.
Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Switzerland Lake Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, with a fair condition assessment reported in 2017. While no spillway type is specified, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1117.3 cubic feet per second, contributing to the overall management of water resources in the region. Despite its age, Switzerland Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in maintaining water supply and regulating water flow in the tributary to Piney Creek.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Switzerland Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the infrastructure that supports sustainable water management in Ohio. With its historical significance and ongoing state oversight, the dam serves as a vital piece of the region's water supply infrastructure. As a privately-owned structure, it highlights the collaborative efforts between private entities and state agencies in maintaining crucial water resources. Whether exploring its engineering design or its impact on the local ecosystem, Switzerland Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and infrastructure management.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
53.6 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO PINEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
697 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
54 |
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.
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