Ahrens Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Lexington, Ohio, Ahrens Lake Dam is a privately-owned structure that serves as a crucial water resource for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1976, this earth dam stands at a height of 34.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 60.5 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 4.3 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and significant hazard potential are managed effectively.

Ahrens Lake Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem, with its reservoir fed by the Trib-Clear Fork Reservoir. This dam not only offers recreational opportunities to visitors but also contributes to the overall water management and conservation efforts in the region. With a drainage area of 0.14 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 312.8 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a key component in maintaining the water balance and flow in the area.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Ahrens Lake Dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor activities. With its fair condition and regular inspections, the dam ensures the surrounding community's safety while offering a picturesque setting for water and climate enthusiasts to explore. As a well-maintained structure in Richland County, Ohio, Ahrens Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management and the preservation of natural habitats in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

34.2

River Or Stream

TRIB-CLEAR FORK RESERVOIR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

60.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.