Zion Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Zion Lake Dam, located in Harrison County, Ohio, was completed in 1963 by the Hanna Coal Company for the primary purpose of tailings storage.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a length of 1200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 382 acre-feet. The dam's reservoir covers a surface area of 24.2 acres and drains a 1.92 square mile watershed, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1350 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, the Zion Lake Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last assessment in August 2020. Regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety. Despite its relatively low risk profile, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and serves as an essential component in the overall environmental and hydrological landscape of Jockey Hollow Run.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and environmental conservation can find a compelling case study in Zion Lake Dam. Its design, construction, and ongoing management offer insights into the challenges and opportunities of balancing human development with ecological stewardship in the context of water resource management. The dam's history, purpose, and operational details contribute to a deeper understanding of how dams like Zion Lake Dam contribute to water security, flood control, and environmental protection in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

JOCKEY HOLLOW RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24.2

Drainage Area

1.92

Nid Storage

382

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

37
       
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.