Buffalo Hills Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Darty Stowe Lake Dam Senecaville Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Buffalo Hills Lake Dam, located in Noble, Ohio, is a privately owned structure designed by Keddell Association from Pittsburgh, PA.
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Summary
Completed in 1973, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 18.7 acre-feet, primarily serving recreational purposes. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with its last assessment in November 2017 revealing a poor condition rating.
With a significant hazard potential, Buffalo Hills Lake Dam poses a risk that necessitates thorough risk management measures. The dam's location near the tributary to Opossum Run and its proximity to the Huntington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight the importance of monitoring and maintaining this vital water resource infrastructure. Despite its current condition assessment, efforts to improve the dam's safety and emergency preparedness are crucial to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and the environment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the complexities and responsibilities associated with managing Buffalo Hills Lake Dam to safeguard its recreational benefits and mitigate potential risks.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
387 |
Dam Height |
15.4 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO OPOSSUM RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
18.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Buffalo Hills Lake Dam