Jefferson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jefferson Lake Dam in Ohio is a state-regulated structure owned by the Department of Natural Resources and managed for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1934 by the US Department of Interior, National Park Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 25.5 feet with a storage capacity of 321 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1480 cubic feet per second. Situated on the Town Fork river in Hammondsville, the dam is crucial for flood control and water resource management in Jefferson County, Ohio.

Despite its high hazard potential, Jefferson Lake Dam is in satisfactory condition as per the last inspection in June 2019. The dam has a drainage area of 7.42 square miles, a surface area of 18 acres, and a normal storage capacity of 189 acre-feet. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, this dam serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking. However, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of this vital water resource infrastructure.

As a focal point for water-based activities in the region, Jefferson Lake Dam plays a significant role in the community's social and economic well-being. With the potential to provide essential water supply, flood protection, and recreational opportunities, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, understanding and appreciating the value of structures like Jefferson Lake Dam is crucial for promoting environmental stewardship and ensuring the long-term viability of our water systems.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

236

Dam Height

25.5

River Or Stream

TOWN FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

7.42

Nid Storage

321

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.