Dover Dam - Zoar Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dover Dam - Zoar Diversion Dam, located in Ohio, is a federal-owned structure that serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Tuscarawas River.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 250 feet in length. With a hazard potential classified as high, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk of failure, mainly due to water overtopping, erosion, and pump failure.

To manage and mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented various measures, including regular inspections, maintenance activities, and emergency response training. Efforts such as repairing the conduit through the diversion dam, installing liners, and utilizing specialized instrumentation for monitoring contribute to the dam's overall safety. Despite the potential for flooding and damage to the historic structures in the Village of Zoar, residents are assured of ample warning and evacuation time in case of a levee failure, minimizing the risk to lives and property.

In conclusion, the Dover Dam - Zoar Diversion Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding areas from flood events. With proactive risk management strategies in place, including updated emergency action plans and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam stands as a vital resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure and environmental resilience.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TUSCARAWAS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

34

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.