Hickory Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hickory Lake Dam, also known as Kohart Lake, is a privately-owned structure located in Defiance, Ohio.


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Summary

It was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1964 for recreational purposes. The dam is an earth-type structure with a height of 26 feet and a length of 365 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 571.1 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary to the Auglaize River and is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Hickory Lake Dam remains a popular spot for recreational activities, with a surface area of 26.3 acres and a normal storage capacity of 132.2 acre-feet. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 5780 cubic feet per second. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in April 2017, and the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure public safety.

In the midst of concerns about climate change and water resource management, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Hickory Lake Dam are crucial. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, staying informed about the state of dams like Hickory Lake is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and protecting our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO AUGLAIZE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26.3

Drainage Area

4.31

Nid Storage

571.1

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.