Ridgewood Lake Dam, located in Ghent, Ohio, is a privately-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.2 feet and spans a length of 890 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Yellow Creek, within the Huntington District, and is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio.
Despite its intended purpose for recreation, Ridgewood Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition as assessed in May 2017. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam's last assessment revealed a need for significant maintenance and improvement to ensure the safety of downstream communities and infrastructure. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures remain unclear, raising concerns about the readiness and response in case of a potential failure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Ridgewood Lake Dam can appreciate the unique challenges and importance of maintaining this structure for both recreational and safety purposes. With its location in a high-hazard area and the need for ongoing inspections and maintenance, the dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change in communities.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
890 |
Dam Height |
12.2 |
River Or Stream |
YELLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.87 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
12 |