Spencer Lake - North Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: Maddox Mize

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spencer Lake - North Dam, located in Medina, Ohio, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1960 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 14.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 30 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature, this dam serves as a vital part of the local ecosystem, regulating water flow into the tributary to East Branch Black River.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources, Spencer Lake - North Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in October 2018. With regular inspections every five years, the dam ensures the safety of the surrounding area and maintains its functionality for recreational purposes. The dam's location in Penfield offers visitors a chance to appreciate the significance of water resources in shaping the landscape and supporting diverse wildlife habitats in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spencer Lake - North Dam presents a fascinating example of how human engineering can harmoniously coexist with nature to create a recreational haven. As a key feature in the local watershed, this dam not only provides valuable storage capacity but also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its strategic design and state oversight, Spencer Lake - North Dam stands as a testament to the efforts made to protect and enhance water resources for present and future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

930

Dam Height

14.7

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO EAST BRANCH BLACK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

0.52

Nid Storage

258

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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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.