Strait's Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Strait's Lake Dam, located in Mt.
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Summary
Gilead, Ohio, was completed in 1965 by designer George Strait for the primary purpose of recreation. With a height of 23.6 feet and a length of 340 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 390.2 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 43.1 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Situated on a tributary to Sams Creek, the dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 deemed it to be in fair condition. However, with a condition assessment needing to be updated, there remains a need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards. The dam's last inspection in October 2020 indicated that it meets regulatory guidelines, but continued vigilance and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Strait's Lake Dam serves as a focal point for both recreational enjoyment and the careful management of a vital water storage facility in Morrow County, Ohio.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
23.6 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO SAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
43.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.44 |
Nid Storage |
390.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Strait's Lake Dam