Lake Sue Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Sue Dam in Ohio is a state-regulated structure located in Williams County, near Bridgewater Center.


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Summary

Designed by Edward A. Brodbeck, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.9 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. The dam overlooks a tributary to the West Branch St. Joseph River, providing a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

Despite its picturesque location, Lake Sue Dam has been rated as having a significant hazard potential and poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in June 2018. The dam has a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a surface area of 10.2 acres, making it a vital water resource in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 64 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the safety of downstream areas.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and assessment of structures like Lake Sue Dam become increasingly important. With proper regulation and inspection by the Department of Natural Resources, this dam will continue to serve as a valuable asset for both recreation and water management in Williams County, Ohio.

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

22.9

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO WEST BRANCH ST. JOSEPH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.2

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds