Rhoads Lake Dam (Upper) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rhoads Lake Dam (Upper) in Polk, Ohio, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1956 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 18.3 feet high and spans 360 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 88.4 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to Orange Creek, the dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition and significant hazard potential are properly managed.

The dam's location in Ashland County offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the 10-acre surface area created by the reservoir. Boasting a normal storage level of 45 acre-feet, Rhoads Lake Dam (Upper) provides a scenic backdrop for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1258 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Rhoads Lake Dam (Upper) continues to meet safety standards and is equipped with emergency action plans to address any potential risks. With its strategic location and role in water resource management, the dam serves as a vital asset for both local residents and visitors seeking to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained recreational area in Ohio.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

18.3

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO ORANGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

88.4

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.