Lake Butler Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Butler Dam, located in Peninsula, Ohio, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by E.D. Barstow and Associates, this earth dam stands at a height of 50.7 feet and stretches 310 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 95 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 240 acre-feet, the dam is situated on Haskell Run and serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Lake Butler Dam boasts a surface area of 8.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.97 square miles. The dam's high hazard potential is offset by its satisfactory condition assessment, last conducted in May 2017. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards, with regular inspections and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and integrity for both recreational and environmental purposes.

The dam's location in Summit County, Ohio, makes it a key feature for those interested in water management and climate resilience in the region. Its history, design, and impact on the surrounding ecosystem provide a fascinating case study for enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

50.7

River Or Stream

HASKELL RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.2

Drainage Area

0.97

Nid Storage

240

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

51
       
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.