Lang Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lang Lake Dam, also known as Morse Pond, is a privately owned structure located in Fairfield, Ohio.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene environment for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 19.3 feet and a length of 1100 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 56.4 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 5.6 acres for recreational activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Lang Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of March 2017. The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and gates for water management.

Lang Lake Dam's proximity to the Hocking River tributary adds to its appeal for water resource and climate enthusiasts. While the dam's condition may raise some concerns, its scenic location and recreational offerings make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature and enjoy water-based activities.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

19.3

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO HOCKING RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.6

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

56.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.