Acton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Acton Lake Dam, located in Butler County, Ohio, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 62 feet and spans a length of 1092 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 20,673 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Four Mile Creek, offering a surface area of 560 acres for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Acton Lake Dam is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition as of the last inspection in July 2017. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam is being continuously updated to meet guidelines and ensure preparedness in case of emergencies.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Acton Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in water storage and management in the region. With its rich history, design by VOGT, IVERS, SEAMAN AND ASSOCIATES, and ongoing state regulation and inspection, Acton Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in Ohio.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1092

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

FOUR MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

560

Drainage Area

98.9

Nid Storage

20673

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

62
       
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.