Schoonover Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Schoonover Lake Dam, located in Lima, Ohio, was completed in 1890 and serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 16.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 214 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 78 acre-feet. The dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2017.

Owned and regulated by the local government, the dam is inspected every five years by the Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, providing a surface area of 21.3 acres for activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. With a drainage area of 0.08 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 44 cubic feet per second, Schoonover Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Schoonover Lake Dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place as of the latest update in June 2020. However, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and continues to be a popular destination for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. With its picturesque setting and essential role in water management, Schoonover Lake Dam remains a treasured landmark in Allen County, Ohio.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

1562

Dam Height

16.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO OTTAWA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.3

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

214

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.