Wolfden Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wolfden Lake Dam, located in Friendship, Ohio, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of Wolfden Run for both recreational and environmental purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1936, this earth dam boasts a height of 26.6 feet and a length of 215 feet, providing a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.8 acres. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Wolfden Lake Dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 19 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 575 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and preserving the surrounding ecosystem. The dam's primary purpose of recreation is evident in its design and maintenance, highlighting the importance of balancing human enjoyment with environmental stewardship in water management practices.
As part of the Louisville District, Wolfden Lake Dam is closely monitored for any potential risks or emergencies, with a detailed Emergency Action Plan in place to guide response efforts. The dam's strategic location and efficient operation demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding both the community and natural habitats from the impacts of extreme weather events and changing climate patterns. By upholding rigorous regulatory standards and implementing risk management measures, Wolfden Lake Dam serves as a model for sustainable water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
215 |
Dam Height |
26.6 |
River Or Stream |
WOLFDEN RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Upper Twin Creek At Mcgaw Oh
|
2cfs |
Ohio Brush Creek Near West Union Oh
|
94cfs |
Tygarts Creek Near Greenup
|
85cfs |
Ohio River At Greenup Dam Near Greenup
|
33900cfs |
Scioto River At Piketon Oh
|
1690cfs |
Ohio River At Ironton
|
25600cfs |
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.
Wolfden Lake Dam
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