Lake Royce Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Royce Dam, located in Richmond Dale, Ohio, is a privately-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.2 feet, with a length of 758 feet, and a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to Salt Creek, the dam offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities on its 9.5-acre surface area.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is reported as poor, indicating potential areas of concern for maintenance and upkeep. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources serves as the state regulatory agency for Lake Royce Dam, overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. With a history of state jurisdiction, this dam plays a vital role in supporting recreational activities while also requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

As a key recreational feature in Ross County, Ohio, Lake Royce Dam serves as a valuable resource for the community. With its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings, this earth dam provides a serene escape for visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors. However, continued attention to its condition assessment and maintenance needs is essential to safeguard its integrity and ensure the safety of all who enjoy its waters.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

758

Dam Height

27.2

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.5

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

129

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.