Hap Cremean Lowhead Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hap Cremean Lowhead Dam, located on Big Walnut Creek in Franklin County, Ohio, serves as a vital water supply structure.


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Summary

Constructed in 1953, this gravity dam stands at a height of 14.3 feet and has a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 533 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 187 acre-feet and a drainage area of 196 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the region.

Owned and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Hap Cremean Lowhead Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition, with a significant hazard potential due to its location and function. With a five-year inspection frequency, the dam's last assessment in December 2020 confirmed its ability to continue serving its primary purpose as a water supply structure for the community.

Engineered by Uhlmann & Associates, Consulting Engineers, Hap Cremean Lowhead Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Ohio. As a gravity dam on Big Walnut Creek, it not only provides essential water supply but also showcases the importance of state regulation and enforcement in maintaining the safety and functionality of such critical infrastructure. With its history and significance in the region, this dam continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the water needs of the surrounding area while adhering to strict regulatory standards.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

14.3

River Or Stream

BIG WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

28

Drainage Area

196

Nid Storage

533

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.