Brown & Haskins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Brown & Haskins Lake Dam in Ross, Ohio, serves as a vital recreational resource for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1967 by the USDA Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.3 feet and spans 425 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 38.9 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.1 acres, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Located in Chillicothe, Ohio, the dam is state-regulated by the Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Brown & Haskins Lake Dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in April 2018. With a drainage area of 0.03 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 439 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the tributary to Paint Creek, highlighting its significance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a focal point for outdoor recreation and a key component of the local water infrastructure, Brown & Haskins Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing both recreational opportunities and flood control measures underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate. For enthusiasts interested in exploring the intricate relationship between water resources and climate dynamics, this dam serves as a compelling case study in the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

27.3

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO PAINT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

38.9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.