Camp Spelman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Spelman Lake Dam, located in Portage, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 22.9 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12.5 acres. Despite its recreational purpose, this dam has been classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in May 2019.

The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. It is situated on a tributary to the Cuyahoga River, emphasizing its importance in local water resource management. With a drainage area of 0.18 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.

Given its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, there is a pressing need for risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of Camp Spelman Lake Dam. The dam's emergency action plan and inundation maps should be updated to meet guidelines and to effectively respond to any potential threats. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the preservation and maintenance of this dam are essential for both recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation in the region.

Dam Length

195

Dam Height

22.9

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO CUYAHOGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.5

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

166

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.