Donta Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Donta Lake Dam, located in Cadmus, Ohio, is a privately owned structure built in 1965 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 42.3 feet and with a length of 455 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 104.6 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to Symmes Creek, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, providing both water storage and recreational opportunities.
Despite its importance, Donta Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The last inspection in November 2016 highlighted the need for improvements to meet safety standards and mitigate potential risks.
Given its critical role in water resource management and recreation, stakeholders and enthusiasts in the water and climate sectors should closely monitor the condition and regulatory status of Donta Lake Dam. Efforts to enhance its safety and resilience will be essential to ensure the continued protection of the environment and public safety in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
455 |
Dam Height |
42.3 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO SYMMES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
104.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon Creek At Adamsville Oh
|
130cfs |
Little Raccoon Creek Near Ewington Oh
|
18cfs |
Symmes Creek At Aid Oh
|
110cfs |
Ohio River At Ironton
|
25600cfs |
Ohio River At Greenup Dam Near Greenup
|
33900cfs |
Raccoon Creek Near Bolin Mills Oh
|
47cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Donta Lake Dam