Hance Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Anjecondy Lake Dam Cline Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hance Lake Dam, located in Knox, Ohio, is a privately-owned structure designed by EMH&T, INC.
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Summary
The dam was completed in 1991 and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. With a height of 32 feet and a length of 980 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.06 square miles. Despite being regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, the dam is considered to have a low risk profile and is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated on a tributary to Armstrong Run, Hance Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management by providing a surface area of 8 acres and a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 203 cubic feet per second, offering a reliable source of water for recreational activities in the area. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 1993, reflecting the commitment to preparedness and risk management in case of any unforeseen events.
Overall, Hance Lake Dam stands as a significant structure in the water resource landscape of Ohio, contributing to both recreational opportunities and water management efforts. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, the story of Hance Lake Dam offers valuable insights into the intersection of human intervention and natural systems, highlighting the need for proactive management and stewardship of our precious water resources.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
980 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO ARMSTRONG RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Hance Lake Dam