Laurel Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Morrow, Ohio, Laurel Lake Dam is a private earth dam designed by the USDA's Soil Conservation Service.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a height of 19.5 feet and a length of 550 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 88.8 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8.8 acres.
Despite its picturesque setting, Laurel Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, which oversees its regulation, inspection, and enforcement. The dam, which is part of the Sams Creek tributary system, has a drainage area of 0.49 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 485 cubic feet per second.
As water levels rise, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures will be crucial in ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. Regular inspections are conducted to monitor its condition and address any potential risks. Laurel Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and managing water resources effectively in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
19.5 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO SAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.49 |
Nid Storage |
88.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Laurel Lake Dam