Lake Copeland Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Copeland Dam, located in Columbiana, Ohio, is a private-owned earth dam completed in 1956 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 27.8 feet and a storage capacity of 261.8 acre-feet, the dam creates a 130.1-acre lake area for various water activities. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure public safety.

Despite its recreational value, Lake Copeland Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition as assessed in May 2019. The dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness measures are crucial factors in mitigating risks associated with its operation. Furthermore, the dam has a history of modifications or improvements, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and management to uphold safety standards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Copeland Dam serves as a vital structure in the local watershed, tributary to the East Branch Middle Fork Little Beaver Creek. Understanding the dam's design, significance, and potential risks contributes to the broader conversation on water management and climate resilience in the region. As an integral part of the Pittsburgh District's water infrastructure, Lake Copeland Dam highlights the intersection of human development, environmental stewardship, and public safety in maintaining sustainable water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

27.8

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO EAST BRANCH MIDDLE FORK LITTLE BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.5

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

261.8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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.