Elkem Effluent Treatment Pond No. 4, located in Ashtabula, Ohio, is an earth dam constructed in 1977 for the primary purpose of tailings storage. This private-owned structure has a height of 18 feet and a length of 3400 feet, with a storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 14 acres and has a drainage area of 0.02 square miles, discharging into a tributary to Lake Erie.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Elkem Effluent Treatment Pond No. 4 is in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2017. The dam has been regulated, permitted, and inspected by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, with enforcement measures in place. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unknown, highlighting the need for updated information and potential improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

With its proximity to Lake Erie and the potential environmental impact in case of a breach, Elkem Effluent Treatment Pond No. 4 serves as a critical infrastructure requiring regular maintenance and monitoring. The dam's condition assessment, emergency preparedness, and risk management strategies are essential components to address for safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks in the area. As efforts continue to enhance the structure's safety and resilience, collaboration between stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and the private owner will be vital in ensuring the long-term sustainability of this important water management facility.