Shadow Hill Lake Dam, located in Kirtland, Ohio, is a private earth dam designed by Braun, Prenosil & Associates and completed in 1973.
Wind
Humidity
The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 35.3 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 18.9 acre-feet. With a height of 20.6 feet and a length of 200 feet, the dam sits on the tributary to the East Branch Chagrin River, contributing to a surface area of 3.6 acres and a drainage area of 0.13 square miles.
State-regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, Shadow Hill Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections every 5 years, with the latest assessment in May 2018 rating its condition as satisfactory. Although there are no specific spillway details provided, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1142 cubic feet per second. Despite the lack of associated structures or outlet gates, the dam remains a critical component for recreational activities in the area, highlighting the importance of its maintenance and adherence to state regulatory guidelines.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shadow Hill Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its location within Geauga County, Ohio, and proximity to the Buffalo District of the USACE, the dam showcases the delicate balance between water management for recreation and the potential risks associated with high hazard dams. Through ongoing monitoring and inspections, stakeholders can ensure the safety and functionality of Shadow Hill Lake Dam for both present and future generations of outdoor enthusiasts and environmental stewards.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20.6 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO EAST BRANCH CHAGRIN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.13 |
Nid Storage |
35.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp site B
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Camp site A
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Punderson State Park
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Girdled Road Reservation Campsite
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Headwaters Park Camping
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