Marshfield Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 3, 2026
Marshfield Lake Dam, located in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, is a private earth dam completed in 1940 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 15.3 feet and stretching 220 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.34 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Marshfield Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in September 2018. With the dam showing signs of wear and deterioration, its emergency action plan (EAP) has not been updated recently, raising concerns about its ability to effectively respond to potential hazards. The dam's risk management measures and inundation maps also appear to be lacking, highlighting the need for prompt attention and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks to the surrounding area and the Porter Creek stream.
In light of its historical significance and importance for recreation, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize the rehabilitation and maintenance of Marshfield Lake Dam to ensure its long-term safety and sustainability. By addressing its current poor condition, updating emergency protocols, and implementing proper risk management strategies, this dam can continue to provide valuable recreational opportunities while safeguarding the local ecosystem and community from potential hazards associated with its deteriorating state.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
15.3 |
River Or Stream |
PORTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.7 |
Drainage Area |
1.34 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Hourly 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.
Marshfield Lake Dam