Camp Lakota Boy Scout Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Lakota Boy Scout Lake Dam, located in Defiance, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and has a length of 1148 feet. It serves as a critical water resource for the area, with a normal storage capacity of 132 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 272 acre-feet.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, the Camp Lakota Boy Scout Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, a moderate risk level of 3 has been assigned to the dam. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam presents a moderate risk that necessitates ongoing risk management measures to prevent potential hazards or emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the intricate details of this dam, including its association with the Buffalo District of the USACE and its proximity to the tributary to Powell Creek. The dam's location in a rural setting adds to its charm, offering visitors a serene environment for recreational activities. As a cornerstone of the Camp Lakota Boy Scout Lake, this dam plays a vital role in providing water storage, flood protection, and recreational opportunities for the local community.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

1148

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO POWELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

272

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.