Sun Valley Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Sun Valley Lake Dam in Ross, Ohio, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1955 with a height of 20 feet and a length of 1057 feet, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet and a surface area of 13.8 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated in North Fork Village along a tributary to North Fork Paint Creek, Sun Valley Lake Dam offers a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. With its primary purpose being recreation, the dam attracts visitors seeking outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Despite the initial design plans not being followed by the USDA and SCS, the dam continues to serve as a valuable resource for the community and a symbol of the intersection between water resource management and climate resilience.
Managed by private owners, Sun Valley Lake Dam remains an integral part of the local landscape, providing not only recreational opportunities but also contributing to the overall water management strategy in the area. With its history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its longevity and effectiveness in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1057 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO NORTH FORK PAINT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Scioto River At Chillicothe Oh
|
1700cfs |
Paint Creek At Chillicothe Oh
|
794cfs |
Paint Creek Near Bourneville Oh
|
332cfs |
Paint Creek Near Greenfield Oh
|
181cfs |
Scioto River At Higby Oh
|
2180cfs |
Scioto River At Circleville Oh
|
1210cfs |
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.
Sun Valley Lake Dam