Lake Lucerne Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Lucerne Dam, located in Geauga, Ohio, stands as a testament to engineering prowess with a construction date as far back as 1922.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam, towering at a height of 30.3 feet and stretching 575 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and a surface area of 15.1 acres, the dam harnesses the waters of McFarland Creek, forming a picturesque reservoir that covers a drainage area of 4.89 square miles.
Despite its historical significance and recreational appeal, Lake Lucerne Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of June 2018. This raises concerns for the safety of the dam and the surrounding community, calling for frequent inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's enforcement and regulatory oversight fall under the purview of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, signifying a collaborative effort to manage and maintain this vital water resource. As the dam continues to age, efforts to address its deteriorating condition and implement risk management measures become imperative to safeguard its longevity and protect downstream areas from potential inundation.
Lake Lucerne Dam's critical role in water storage and flood control underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness. The dam's high hazard classification and outdated condition assessment highlight the pressing need for risk assessment, hazard mitigation, and the development of an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to address potential safety concerns. As stakeholders work towards enhancing the dam's resilience and ensuring public safety, the collaboration between regulatory agencies, owners, and the surrounding community becomes paramount in safeguarding this iconic structure for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
30.3 |
River Or Stream |
MCFARLAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15.1 |
Drainage Area |
4.89 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp site A
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Camp site B
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Punderson State Park
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Lake Lucerne Dam
Auburn Launch Ramp
The West Woods
Chagrin Valley Parkway
Beartown Lakes Reservation
Solon Community Park
Ledges Park