Mills Lake Dam, located in Hanover, Ohio, is a private earth dam completed in 1965 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 25.3 feet and has a length of 260 feet, providing a storage capacity of 21.3 acre-feet. Despite its primary function for recreation, the dam also serves as a critical structure for managing the flow of the tributary to Rocky Fork River.
Maintained by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Mills Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in December 2020. Although it meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, the dam poses a potential risk that requires effective risk management measures. With a drainage area of 0.14 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 194 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Mills Lake Dam an intriguing structure that not only enhances recreational opportunities but also highlights the importance of proper maintenance and risk assessment for earth dams. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the dam underscores the ongoing need for proactive monitoring and management to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Licking County, Ohio.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
25.3 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO ROCKY FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
21.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |