ODNR celebrates A.W. Marion State Park dam rehabilitation project
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) this month rededicated the A.W. Marion State Park dam to celebrate the completion of a $9.6 million rehabilitation project — an investment into the health and wellbeing of the surrounding area.
“We’re so proud of the work that went into rehabilitating the dam at A.W. Marion State Park,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “Not only is the dam safer and easier to maintain, but it’s also part of the beautiful backdrop of the park for people to hike, fish and enjoy the great outdoors.”
This project is the first major dam rehabilitation at Hargus Lake, in Circleville, since 1956. It is vital for bringing the dam structure into compliance with modern dam safety standards. A new concrete spillway was installed, which increased the dam’s flow capacity by 60 percent. Additionally, the slope of the 1,500-foot-long embankment was flattened to improve long-term stability.
Design and construction administration services were provided by HDR Engineering, Inc., and The Ruhlin Company performed the construction using 110,000 cubic yards of earthfill, 1,800 cubic yards of concrete and 18,000 cubic yards of sand and stone.
Boating and fishing opportunities abound at 145-acre Hargus Lake. Hand-powered vessels and boats with electric motors are allowed, and the lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish.
A.W. Marion State Park offers rolling woodlands alongside the quiet waters of Hargus Lake. Once part of the state's prairie peninsula, the park's 310 acres showcase a variety of native landscapes and wildlife. A great way to see the park is to hike the Hargus Lake Trail, which traverses the entire lake shoreline. Camping, picnicking, hunting and more are available at the park.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education and conservation of Ohio’s 75 state parks and waterways.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.