Zanesville State Nursery Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Zanesville State Nursery Lake Dam, located in Muskingum County, Ohio, is a state-regulated earth dam primarily built for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a dam height of 31.5 feet and a storage capacity of 375 acre-feet, this dam offers a surface area of 12.6 acres and a normal storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary to Blount Run, providing a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Despite having a fair condition assessment as of October 2018, the Zanesville State Nursery Lake Dam has a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unclear, highlighting the need for updated protocols to ensure public safety and environmental protection. With a notable history of state jurisdiction and enforcement, the Department of Natural Resources plays a crucial role in overseeing the dam's operations and compliance with regulatory standards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to engage with the Zanesville State Nursery Lake Dam, its rich history and recreational offerings make it a compelling destination for exploration and research. By understanding its design features, storage capabilities, and regulatory framework, visitors can appreciate the dam's significance in water management and environmental stewardship within the Ohio landscape.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

31.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO BLOUNT RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.6

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

375

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
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.