Shilo Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shilo Lake Dam, located in Grafton, Ohio, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 28.6 feet and a length of 290 feet. Its storage capacity reaches up to 96.9 acre-feet, providing a tranquil surface area of 5.2 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Situated on a tributary to the East Branch Black River, Shilo Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and has been assessed as satisfactory, ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. Regular inspections are conducted every five years, with the last assessment carried out in September 2018. With a drainage area of 0.71 square miles and a maximum discharge of 757 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region while offering a serene recreational environment for visitors to appreciate.

Despite its private ownership, Shilo Lake Dam remains a vital asset in the water infrastructure of Lorain County, Ohio. As climate change impacts water resources, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential risks underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, making it a noteworthy site for enthusiasts in the field.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

28.6

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO EAST BRANCH BLACK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.2

Drainage Area

0.71

Nid Storage

96.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.