Lake Cardinal Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Cardinal Dam, located in Ashtabula, Ohio, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational hub for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 31.4 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 2532 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide recreational opportunities, with a surface area of 55.5 acres and a normal storage capacity of 370 acre-feet.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Lake Cardinal Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition following a 2016 assessment. The dam overlooks Plum Creek and is situated within close proximity to Circle Resort, offering a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy various water activities. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the dam's safety and integrity, with emergency action plans in place to mitigate any potential risks.

With a drainage area of 7.88 square miles, Lake Cardinal Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing flood control and water storage capabilities. Its association with the Pittsburgh District underscores its importance in the overall water infrastructure of the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Cardinal Dam represents a harmonious blend of functional utility and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the intersection of water management and recreational amenities.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

31.4

River Or Stream

PLUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55.5

Drainage Area

7.88

Nid Storage

2532

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds