Swan Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Swan Lake Dam, located in Evendale, Ohio, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at 18.4 feet tall and spans 670 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.3 acres. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering opportunities for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the tributary to Mill Creek.

Despite its satisfying condition assessment in 2016, Swan Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and structure type. The dam has a history of regular inspections every 5 years to ensure its safety and integrity. With a maximum discharge of 10 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and protecting downstream communities from flooding risks. While the dam lacks specific spillway information, its operational status and emergency action plan readiness are crucial factors to consider for effective risk management and public safety.

The Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers has no jurisdiction over Swan Lake Dam, indicating exclusive state regulation and oversight. The dam's association with Representative Warren Davidson highlights its importance as a local landmark. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Swan Lake become increasingly vital to ensure sustainable water management and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

18.4

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

38

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.