Bolivar Dam - East Sparta Levee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bolivar Dam - East Sparta Levee, located in Stark County, Ohio, is a crucial Federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 4000 feet in length along Sandy Creek. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a maximum storage capacity of 123,446 acre-feet.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to ensure preparedness in the event of a dam-related emergency. USACE manages flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and working with local emergency managers for public awareness and emergency response readiness. The agency also conducts regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs to uphold the dam's structural integrity and functionality.

Despite its risk management measures, it is important to acknowledge that dams cannot eliminate all flood risks. Factors like severe weather events and inconsistent water inflows can challenge the dam's capacity and lead to necessary water releases. USACE continues to refine its risk assessment and response strategies to mitigate potential issues and ensure the safety and stability of Bolivar Dam - East Sparta Levee in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

4000

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.