Lake Forest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Forest Dam, located in Boston Heights, Ohio, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 143.5 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 16.3 feet and spans a length of 625 feet along Brandywine Creek, offering a surface area of 42.2 acres for outdoor activities.

Despite being classified with a significant hazard potential, Lake Forest Dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition during its last assessment in April 2017. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4,887 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water in the surrounding area and protecting downstream communities from flooding.

As a key feature in the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Forest Dam underscores the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of water resources. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall environmental and recreational landscape, making it a significant asset for both the local community and water resource enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

16.3

River Or Stream

BRANDYWINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42.2

Drainage Area

5.36

Nid Storage

405

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.