Lake Dorothy Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Dorothy Dam, located in Barberton, Ohio, is a privately owned structure designed by William G.


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Summary

Clark and completed in 1929. The dam, situated on the Hudson Run river, stands at a height of 35.5 feet and has a length of 468 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 2320 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides opportunities for water-based activities in its 114-acre surface area.

Despite its age, Lake Dorothy Dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently rated as being in fair condition. Its last inspection in July 2020 confirmed its stability, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. As a vital component of the local water resource management system, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Dorothy Dam serves as a significant landmark in Summit County, Ohio, offering both recreational benefits and necessary water storage capacity. With its historical significance, ongoing maintenance, and state-regulated status, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region. Its presence on the Hudson Run river not only enhances the natural landscape but also highlights the importance of maintaining and preserving water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

468

Dam Height

35.5

River Or Stream

HUDSON RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

114

Drainage Area

10.7

Nid Storage

2320

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.