Forbidden Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Forbidden Lake Dam, located in Plain City, Ohio, is a private earth dam that was completed in 1998 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Managed by BBC&M Engineering, the dam stands at 13 feet high and spans 2500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 194.7 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Robinson Run and has a surface area of 21.5 acres, providing a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Owned privately and regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Forbidden Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2020. The dam has a drainage area of 0.08 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 15 cfs, making it a relatively safe structure. While it does not have a designated spillway, the dam is equipped with necessary safety features to prevent overtopping during heavy rainfall events.

With its serene location and recreational purpose, Forbidden Lake Dam offers a picturesque retreat for those interested in water resources and climate dynamics. Its well-maintained condition, low hazard potential, and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal destination for enthusiasts looking to appreciate the intersection of infrastructure and nature.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

ROBINSON RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.5

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

194.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.