Jackson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Jackson Lake Dam in Ohio is a state-owned structure managed by the Department of Natural Resources, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1939 by the Owens Division of Conservation & Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 296 feet in length. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 3,404 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1,173 acre-feet.
Situated on the Black Fork River in Jackson County, the dam covers a surface area of 220 acres and serves a drainage area of 18.6 square miles. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment as of 2016, the dam undergoes inspections every five years. While no spillway is listed, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 23,382 cubic feet per second.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Jackson Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. With its significant storage capacity, location on a vital river system, and potential risk factors, the dam serves as a focal point for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. Its history, design, and ongoing regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the intersection of recreation, conservation, and infrastructure in the context of water management.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
296 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
220 |
Drainage Area |
18.6 |
Nid Storage |
3404 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Raccoon Creek Near Ewington Oh
|
18cfs |
Raccoon Creek At Adamsville Oh
|
130cfs |
Symmes Creek At Aid Oh
|
110cfs |
Ohio River At Greenup Dam Near Greenup
|
33900cfs |
Ohio River At Ironton
|
25600cfs |
Scioto River At Piketon Oh
|
1690cfs |
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.
Jackson Lake Dam