Stony Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stony Lake Dam, located in Sherodsville, Ohio, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1928, this earth dam stands at a height of 18.3 meters and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 19.9 hectares and a drainage area of 11.74 square kilometers. Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the dam's condition assessment indicates poor maintenance, with a significant hazard potential.

The dam's last inspection in July 2020 highlighted the need for improvement, as it falls short of regulatory standards. With a maximum storage capacity of 183 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 98 acre-feet, the dam poses a risk due to its poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts may find the situation concerning, as the dam's structural integrity and regulatory compliance are essential for ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of McGuire Creek.

As stakeholders work towards addressing the dam's maintenance needs and improving its condition, the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures cannot be understated. Ensuring that the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped to handle potential emergencies is crucial for safeguarding both the recreational benefits provided by Stony Lake Dam and the surrounding environment. Continued monitoring and investment in necessary upgrades will be essential for mitigating risks and maintaining the long-term sustainability of this significant water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

287

Dam Height

18.3

River Or Stream

MCGUIRE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.9

Drainage Area

11.74

Nid Storage

183

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.