Muskingum River Lock And Dam No. 11 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Muskingum River Lock and Dam No.


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Summary

11, also known as Ellis No. 11, is a historic timber crib dam located in Muskingum, Ohio. Built in 1841 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this dam has a height of 15.3 feet and a length of 340 feet, creating a storage capacity of 1461 acre-feet. Situated on the Muskingum River, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities in the area.

The dam is owned and regulated by the state of Ohio, with the Department of Natural Resources overseeing its operation, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being labeled as having "Significant" hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in "Fair" condition as of the last inspection in October 2018. With a drainage area of 6036 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 11594 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

As a key structure on the Muskingum River, Lock and Dam No. 11 not only provides recreational benefits but also contributes to water resource management and flood control efforts in the area. With its historical significance and continued importance in the region, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, environment, and recreation along the Muskingum River.

Year Completed

1841

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

15.3

River Or Stream

MUSKINGUM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

352

Drainage Area

6036

Nid Storage

1461

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.