Margaret Creek Structure No. 6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
Margaret Creek Structure No.
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Summary
6, also known as Fox Lake, is a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Athens, Ohio. Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 41.5 feet and spans a length of 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 2068 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the West Branch Margaret Creek, offering protection to the surrounding area.
Despite its critical role in managing floodwaters, Margaret Creek Structure No. 6 is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in March 2017 revealed the need for significant improvements to ensure the dam's structural integrity and effectiveness. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a pressing need for comprehensive risk management measures to be implemented to safeguard the community and environment from potential hazards.
With the Department of Natural Resources overseeing state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Margaret Creek Structure No. 6 remains under close supervision to ensure its continued functionality and safety. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the upkeep and enhancement of such critical infrastructure to mitigate flood risks and protect the local ecosystem and population from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
41.5 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH MARGARET CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
47.5 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
2068 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hocking River At Athens Oh
|
583cfs |
Raccoon Creek Near Bolin Mills Oh
|
47cfs |
Monday Creek At Doanville Oh
|
48cfs |
Sunday Creek Below Millfield Oh
|
54cfs |
Shade River Near Chester Oh
|
110cfs |
Hocking River At Enterprise Oh
|
227cfs |
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.
Margaret Creek Structure No. 6