Giel Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Giel Lake Dam, located in Geauga, Ohio, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene backdrop for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a height of 14.5 feet and a storage capacity of 32.4,
Giel Lake Dam also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing essential water resources to the tributary leading to the Cuyahoga River.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, this dam remains a vital feature in the area, with a maximum discharge of 838 cubic feet per second. The dam's inspection frequency of every 5 years ensures that necessary maintenance and safety measures are being taken to prevent any potential risks. While the dam may have faced modifications over the years, its historical significance and contribution to the region's water resource management cannot be overlooked. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the preservation and upkeep of dams like Giel Lake Dam become increasingly crucial for sustainable water management practices.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO CUYAHOGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Drainage Area

2.16

Nid Storage

32.4

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.