Hayes Lake Dam, located in North Royalton, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1968 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 44.7 feet and stretching 1200 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 93.8 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 60.4 acre-feet. It is situated on a tributary to the East Branch Rocky River, in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Hayes Lake Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of March 2019. The dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. In case of emergencies, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, highlighting the need for proactive risk management measures to be put in place. With a maximum discharge capacity of 450 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and providing recreational opportunities for the community.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hayes Lake Dam presents a unique blend of recreational and regulatory features that underscore the importance of balancing human activities with environmental stewardship. With its location in a scenic natural setting and its role in managing water flow within the region, the dam serves as a symbol of the intricate relationship between human infrastructure and the natural environment. As discussions on climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Hayes Lake Dam will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
44.7 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO EAST BRANCH ROCKY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
93.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
45 |