Brightwood Lake Dam Removal and Kellogg Creek Stream Restoration
The dam removal and restoration project was partially funded by the Ohio EPA Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program (WRRSP)
Formed with the construction of a dam along Kellogg Creek in 1967, the 11.4 acre Brightwood Lake was created for aesthetics for nearby housing. Complete dam removal was completed to address dam deficiencies and to improve overall water quality in Kellogg Creek. The dam removal project included restoration of approximately 2,800 linear feet of Kellogg Creek and 9 acres of floodplain, which drains to the Grand River. The riparian corridor, or the land right next to the creek, was vegetated with native plants.
Why was the dam removed?
The 16 ft high dam consisted of a 340 ft long earthen embankment with a 55 ft spillway. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) performed an inspection of the dam in 2004. The dam was determined to be a High Hazard Class 1 dam that was considered failing to meet current standard. There was also a significant buildup of sediment in the lake, contributing to the risk of downstream flooding and stream habitat degradation. This is a common result of building an “online pond” or damming of a Perennial Stream.
Based on a 2006 Engineering study, different options and their associated cost were determined. The options included repair of the dam and dredge the lake, partial removal of the dam, or complete removal and stream restoration. Local and State officials and dam property owners weighed all options and their associated risks with flooding hazards, effects on downstream housing/infrastructure and stream health. With the help of Chagrin River Watershed Partner’s successful WRRSP nomination, it was decided that complete dam removal and stream restoration were the best option.