Cambridge City Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Cambridge City Reservoir Dam, located in Guernsey County, Ohio, was completed in 1916 and stands at a height of 46.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 655 acre-feet.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a normal storage level of 446 acre-feet and a surface area of 33 acres. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and effectiveness in managing water resources.

With the Board of Trade Run serving as the main river or stream, the Cambridge City Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water management for the city of Cambridge. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as in fair condition following a 2017 assessment. The dam's emergency action plan is being continuously updated and refined, reflecting a commitment to ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in the event of any potential risks or emergencies.

As a vital piece of infrastructure for water supply, the Cambridge City Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With a rich history dating back over a century, this dam continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding water resources for the residents of Guernsey County, Ohio, and highlights the ongoing efforts to prioritize safety, sustainability, and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

476

Dam Height

46.5

River Or Stream

BOARD OF TRADE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Drainage Area

0.63

Nid Storage

655

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

47
       
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.