Margaret Creek Structure No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Margaret Creek Structure No.
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Summary
1, also known as Meeks Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Athens, Ohio, designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along Margaret Creek. This earth dam, completed in 1972, stands at a height of 31.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 1000.8 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 80.4 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving a drainage area of 3.42 square miles and providing critical protection to the surrounding area.
With a high hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of 2017, Margaret Creek Structure No. 1 is regularly inspected every five years to ensure its integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 12,179.9 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam plays a crucial role in managing floodwaters and protecting downstream communities in Fisher, Ohio. As a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, Margaret Creek Structure No. 1 remains a key component in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
665 |
Dam Height |
31.5 |
River Or Stream |
MARGARET CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
3.42 |
Nid Storage |
1000.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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. 1