Marsh Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marsh Lake Dam in Ohio is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 42.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 56.9 acre-feet. Situated in Tuscarawas County, the dam controls a tributary to Old Town Creek and covers a surface area of 3.5 acres.

Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Marsh Lake Dam is regularly inspected and regulated to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of August 2020, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water resource management in the region. The dam's emergency action plan is being updated to meet guidelines and enhance its risk management measures.

Overall, Marsh Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for both recreation and environmental protection. Its strategic location and efficient operation contribute to the sustainable use of water resources and climate resilience in the area. As enthusiasts of water resource management and climate adaptation, keeping a close watch on Marsh Lake Dam's maintenance and safety protocols is essential for preserving the balance between human activities and the natural environment.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

271

Dam Height

42.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO OLD TOWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

56.9

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.