Howard Farm Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Howard Farm Dam, located in Lucas, Ohio, along Wards Canal, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and recreational opportunities.
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Summary
Completed in 2018, this earth dam reaches a height of 18 feet and spans 22,500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 3,833 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a surface area of 447 acres for visitors to enjoy various water-based activities.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, Howard Farm Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Classified with a high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in March 2019. Despite its risk level, the dam continues to provide a valuable resource for the community, offering both flood control benefits and recreational amenities for residents and visitors alike.
As a vital component of the water infrastructure in the region, Howard Farm Dam serves as a symbol of the delicate balance between water resource management and climate adaptation. With its strategic location along Wards Canal and the Detroit District, the dam not only provides critical storage capacity but also enhances the overall resilience of the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Howard Farm Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2018 |
Dam Length |
22500 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
WARDS CANAL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
447 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
3833 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Howard Farm Dam