Muskingum River Lock And Dam No. 7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Muskingum River Lock and Dam No.


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Summary

7, also known as McConnelsville No. 7, is a historic structure located in Morgan County, Ohio. Built in 1841 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this dam stands at a height of 15.2 feet and spans 472 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering visitors a scenic and tranquil spot along the Muskingum River. With a storage capacity of 2999 acre-feet and a drainage area of 7422 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Muskingum River Lock and Dam No. 7 is currently in poor condition and is deemed to have significant hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2018 revealed its deteriorating state, prompting concerns about its long-term safety and functionality. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, with enforcement and permitting responsibilities falling under state jurisdiction. Efforts to address the dam's condition and ensure its continued operation are essential to safeguarding the surrounding ecosystem and water resources, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to preserve this valuable infrastructure.

Year Completed

1841

Dam Length

472

Dam Height

15.2

River Or Stream

MUSKINGUM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

442

Drainage Area

7422

Nid Storage

2999

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.