Guilford Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Guilford Lake Dam in Ohio is a state-owned structure that serves as a key recreational spot in Columbiana County.


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Summary

Built in 1933, this earthen dam stands at a height of 34.5 feet, with a length of 3200 feet and a storage capacity of 5650 acre-feet. Situated on the West Fork Little Beaver Creek, it not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and managing drainage in the area.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources, Guilford Lake Dam is subjected to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential due to its location and storage capacity, the dam is categorized as in fair condition as of the last assessment in June 2019. Despite this, the structure meets state regulatory standards and is inspected every five years to address any potential risks or issues that may arise.

With a historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, Guilford Lake Dam continues to be a vital part of the local landscape, offering both recreational opportunities and essential water resource management functions. Its presence on the West Fork Little Beaver Creek underscores its importance in maintaining the ecological balance and providing a safe environment for residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

3200

Dam Height

34.5

River Or Stream

WEST FORK LITTLE BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

330

Drainage Area

10.97

Nid Storage

5650

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.