Oberlin Old Upground Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Oberlin Old Upground Reservoir, located in Lorain County, Ohio, is a local government-owned earth dam that was completed in 1960 for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 16.8 feet and a storage capacity of 92.2 acre-feet, this reservoir offers a surface area of 10 acres for various outdoor activities. Situated along Plum Creek, this offstream reservoir plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities to the residents of Oberlin.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, this reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced for safety and compliance with state regulations. Although it has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition, the reservoir undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a commitment to maintaining the reservoir for recreational use, the local government continues to monitor and manage the Oberlin Old Upground Reservoir to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the Oberlin area can appreciate the significance of the Oberlin Old Upground Reservoir as a valuable asset for recreational activities and as a sustainable water management resource. As a part of the Buffalo District, this local gem offers a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, while also serving as a testament to effective dam management and conservation efforts in Ohio.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

2450

Dam Height

16.8

River Or Stream

PLUM CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

0.02

Nid Storage

92.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.