Bass Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bass Lake Dam in Ohio, completed in 1966, stands as a significant recreational resource for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety. With a primary purpose of recreation, the earth dam is 20.4 feet high and spans 950 feet, providing a storage capacity of 46.9 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres.

Despite its vital role in providing recreational opportunities, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in 2016 highlighted the need for improvements to enhance its safety and functionality. Emergency action plans are under review, and risk management measures are being explored to address potential concerns and ensure the dam's resilience.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to enjoy Bass Lake Dam's offerings, efforts are being made to uphold its structural integrity and safety. With ongoing assessments, improvements, and risk management strategies, the dam remains a valuable asset in the community, contributing to both recreation and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

20.4

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.02

Nid Storage

46.9

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.