Reed Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Reed Lake Dam, located in Carroll County, Ohio, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at 27 feet high and spans 373 feet in length, with a primary purpose of recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 5 acres for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Despite its recreational value, Reed Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in July 2020. The dam's emergency action plan status is unclear, raising concerns about its ability to meet safety guidelines in the event of a high-risk situation. With a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a maximum discharge of 176 cubic feet per second, the dam's condition and risk management measures require immediate attention to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and water resources.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Reed Lake Dam can appreciate its ecological significance as a tributary to Cold Springs Run. However, with its current poor condition and significant hazard potential, there is a pressing need for improved maintenance and risk management strategies to protect the dam's structural integrity and prevent potential disasters. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, Reed Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our natural environment.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

373

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO COLD SPRINGS RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

44

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

27
       
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.