Lake Rupert Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Rupert Dam, also known as Wellston Reservoir, is a state-owned Earth dam located in Vinton County, Ohio.


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Summary

Built in 1968 by Burgess and Niple, Ltd., the dam is situated on Little Raccoon Creek and serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area. With a height of 40 feet and a length of 1510 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 7459 acre-feet and a surface area of 325 acres.

Despite its importance as a water supply infrastructure, Lake Rupert Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures in place to ensure its safety and compliance. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in November 2016, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Lake Rupert Dam can appreciate its role in providing essential water supply services to the region while also recognizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality. As a key feature in the local watershed, the dam serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between human infrastructure and natural water systems, highlighting the need for sustainable management practices to address the challenges posed by climate change and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1510

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

LITTLE RACCOON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

325

Drainage Area

22.2

Nid Storage

7459

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.