Forked Run Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Forked Run Lake Dam, located in Long Bottom, Ohio, is a state-owned structure designed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 54.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,672 acre-feet, with a surface area of 138 acres and a drainage area of 8.7 square miles. The dam is situated along the Forked Run River and is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Despite its recreational purpose, Forked Run Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition as of 2017. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2019, and it meets guidelines for potential risk scenarios. While no spillway type or width is specified, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 15,095 cubic feet per second. With an inspection frequency of every 5 years, the dam remains under state jurisdiction and oversight, with measures in place to manage any potential risks associated with its operation and maintenance.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Forked Run Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure due to its role in providing recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital component of water management in the region. With its significant storage capacity and location along the Forked Run River, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management for the surrounding area. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's safety and integrity, its impact on the local ecosystem and community resilience in the face of changing climate conditions will be of particular interest to those passionate about water resource management and climate adaptation.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
54.8 |
River Or Stream |
FORKED RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
138 |
Drainage Area |
8.7 |
Nid Storage |
3672 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shade River Near Chester Oh
|
45cfs |
Little Kanawha River At Palestine
|
1100cfs |
Hocking River At Athens Oh
|
205cfs |
Sunday Creek Below Millfield Oh
|
54cfs |
Raccoon Creek Near Bolin Mills Oh
|
47cfs |
Muskingum River At Beverly Oh
|
2860cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Forked Run Lake Dam