Hidden Lakes Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Royal Oak Lake Dam Karr Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hidden Lakes Upper Dam, located in Welshtown, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam primarily constructed for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 25.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 34.5 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 23.8 acre-feet. The dam impounds water from a tributary to Forest Run, creating a surface area of 3.6 acres for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Despite its recreational value, Hidden Lakes Upper Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2017. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, which conducts inspections and enforces safety measures to ensure the structure's integrity. With a drainage area of 0.21 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 216 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and mitigating flood risks downstream.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Hidden Lakes Upper Dam as a vital infrastructure for recreation and water management in Meigs County, Ohio. Its location within the Huntington District and the oversight by state regulatory agencies highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability. As efforts are made to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate hazards, the Hidden Lakes Upper Dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water resources, climate resilience, and responsible infrastructure management.
Dam Length |
235 |
Dam Height |
25.7 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO FOREST RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
34.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hidden Lakes Upper Dam