Lake Milton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Milton Dam, located in Newton Falls, Ohio, stands as a vital recreational resource along the Mahoning River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1916, the earth dam rises to a height of 52.5 feet and spans a length of 2840 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 46,605 acre-feet. Despite its aging infrastructure, the dam serves as a popular destination for water enthusiasts seeking activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming in its 1780-acre surface area.

Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Lake Milton Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure public safety. However, with a hazard potential rated as high and a poor condition assessment in 2016, concerns have been raised about the dam's structural integrity. The last inspection in 2016 highlighted areas in need of improvement, prompting a five-year inspection frequency and an emergency action plan update in 2019 to mitigate risks associated with potential dam failure.

As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the importance of maintaining Lake Milton Dam's structural stability becomes increasingly crucial. With a comprehensive risk management strategy and ongoing maintenance efforts, this iconic earth dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flooding hazards.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

2840

Dam Height

52.5

River Or Stream

MAHONING RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1780

Drainage Area

276

Nid Storage

46605

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

53
       
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.