Clark Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Clark Lake Dam, located in Springfield, Ohio, is a state-owned structure built in 1957 by Dodson, Kinney & Lindblom.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, situated on Sinking Creek, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 2107 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 453 acre-feet. With a height of 23 feet and a length of 1425 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing water-based activities for enthusiasts.

Despite its recreational significance, Clark Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition as of the last assessment in October 2019. The dam is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure safety and compliance. With a maximum discharge capacity of 34,569.7 cubic feet per second, the dam's structural integrity and maintenance are critical for mitigating risks and safeguarding the surrounding community and environment.

In light of the dam's aging infrastructure and high hazard potential, ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and potential rehabilitation efforts are essential to enhance its safety and resilience. As a focal point for recreation and water resource management in the region, the Clark Lake Dam serves as a valuable asset that requires careful oversight and proactive measures to address any potential risks and ensure its continued functionality for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

1425

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

SINKING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

97

Drainage Area

7.08

Nid Storage

2107

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.