Kiser Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Kiser Lake Dam, located in Champaign, Ohio, is a vital structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1939 by the Ohio Department of Highways, the earth dam stands at a height of 25.4 feet and spans 1800 feet in length. The dam's reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 1541.9 acre-feet, with a maximum storage of 4531.2 acre-feet, providing ample water resources for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

The dam is situated on Mosquito Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio. With a significant hazard potential, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The latest assessment in 2019 rated the dam's condition as fair, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Despite these challenges, Kiser Lake Dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventures in the heart of Ohio.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is crucial for preparedness and risk management. While details about the EAP's current status are not provided, the dam's owners and regulatory agencies are responsible for ensuring that the plan meets guidelines and is regularly updated to address any potential threats or emergencies. With its rich history, scenic location, and importance as a recreational resource, Kiser Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water management, climate resilience, and public safety in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

25.4

River Or Stream

MOSQUITO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

384.6

Drainage Area

8.34

Nid Storage

4531.2

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.