Salerno Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Salerno Lake Dam, located in Medina, Ohio, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1982, this earth dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 450 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 176 acre-feet. Despite its recreational appeal, the dam poses a high hazard potential and is currently rated as being in poor condition, as assessed in October 2018.

Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Salerno Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. It is situated on a tributary to the West Branch Rocky River, contributing to a drainage area of 0.32 square miles. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1438 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. However, its poor condition warrants attention and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the integrity of the structure.

As a focal point for recreational activities, Salerno Lake Dam not only provides a picturesque setting for visitors but also serves as a vital infrastructure for water storage and management. With its unique design and historical significance, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities and importance of structures like Salerno Lake Dam is essential in fostering a sustainable relationship with our natural surroundings.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO WEST BRANCH ROCKY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.4

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

176

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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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.