Delaware Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Delaware Dam, also known as Delaware Lake, is a concrete structure located in Delaware County, Ohio, along the Olentangy River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1951 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves as a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure, with a primary purpose of protecting the downstream population from catastrophic flooding. With a structural height of 92 feet and a hydraulic height of 66 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 132,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 96,000 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, USACE has implemented various risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of Delaware Dam. These measures include continuous operations and maintenance activities, detailed inspections during normal and flood conditions, implementation of an Interim Risk Reduction Measures Plan, and conducting emergency exercises and training for staff and local emergency responders. Additionally, the dam's Emergency Action Plan is regularly updated, and flood fighting materials are stored onsite for emergency response.
The risk associated with Delaware Dam is mainly attributed to erosion at the spillway/embankment and its proximity to the populous city of Columbus, Ohio. However, USACE's proactive approach to risk management and emergency response actions demonstrates their commitment to safeguarding the downstream community and infrastructure in the event of a dam failure, showcasing their dedication to maintaining the safety and resilience of this critical water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
18600 |
River Or Stream |
OLENTANGY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1300 |
Hydraulic Height |
66 |
Drainage Area |
386 |
Nid Storage |
132000 |
Structural Height |
92 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 5, Tainter (radial) - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
92 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Delaware Dam
Delaware State Park - South Ramp