Muskingum River Lock And Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Muskingum River Lock and Dam No.
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Summary
3, also known as Lowell No. 3, is a historic timber crib dam completed in 1841 in Ohio. Situated on the Muskingum River in Washington County, this dam serves a primary purpose of recreation and has a significant storage capacity of 4492 acre-feet. Despite its age and historical significance, the dam is in poor condition, with a hazard potential rated as significant.
Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, this state-regulated dam is located in a picturesque area offering opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. With a length of 840 feet and a height of 17.6 feet, Muskingum River Lock and Dam No. 3 stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past. However, its poor condition and significant hazard potential highlight the need for ongoing maintenance and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the structure.
For those interested in water resources and climate, Muskingum River Lock and Dam No. 3 presents a unique opportunity to study a historic timber crib dam in Ohio. With its rich history and potential risks, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and management of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1841 |
Dam Length |
840 |
Dam Height |
17.6 |
River Or Stream |
MUSKINGUM RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
628 |
Drainage Area |
7995 |
Nid Storage |
4492 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Muskingum River Lock And Dam No. 3