Lake Ralph Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Ralph Dam in Howard, Ohio, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, with a significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at 18.2 feet high and 344 feet long, serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a storage capacity of 32.6 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 4.5 acres. Situated in Knox County, the dam is a tributary to the Kokosing River, providing scenic views and water-based activities for enthusiasts.

Despite its recreational value, Lake Ralph Dam's poor condition raises concerns about its safety and structural integrity. With the last inspection conducted in November 2019, it is essential for stakeholders to address the dam's maintenance needs promptly to ensure public safety and prevent potential disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of proper dam management and maintenance is crucial to preserving the ecological balance and safeguarding the community's well-being. Additionally, staying informed about regulatory measures and risk assessment protocols can help mitigate potential hazards associated with aging infrastructure like Lake Ralph Dam.

Dam Length

344

Dam Height

18.2

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO KOKOSING RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

32.6

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.