Hamilton Low Dam Replacement Project

Jul 24, 2026, 15:16 PM by Katie Ely

 

MetroParks is excited for the new opportunities the Hamilton Low Dam modification project will bring to Butler County. This project is part of a long-discussed vision for expanding environmental initiatives and recreational opportunities in the City of Hamilton and in the Great Miami River region.

The dam modification will:

  • Open up 33.7 miles of unobstructed access from the Ohio River
  • Increase water safety through a new rock riffle dam system
  • Improve Great Miami River water quality for fish through water cooling and increased oxygenation
  • Offer new fishing and paddling opportunities for the community
  • This is an important step toward protecting water quality, expanding river access, and making recreation safer, helping create a more connected, vibrant region for residents and visitors alike.

FAQs

  • The dam was originally installed for recreational purposes; its replacement will not impact the Miami Conservancy District's flood control infrastructure.
  • This is not a MetroParks-led project, but we are excited to partner with the City of Hamilton, the Miami Conservancy District, the Hamilton Community Foundation, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on this initiative. Increasing safe water recreation and amplifying environmental stewardship projects along the Great Miami River is important to MetroParks' mission of furthering nature conservation, education, and outdoor recreation in Butler County. We look forward to more exciting things to come as a result of this project!
  • There are no immediate plans for the low head dam modification at Rentschler Forest MetroPark, but we hope that becomes a reality soon.

For more information about the project, visit: