Sparrow Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sparrow Reservoir Dam, located in Harrison County, Ohio, was completed in 1949 by the Harrison County Engineer and serves as a crucial water supply source for the local community.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 32.6 feet and has a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 250 acre-feet. The reservoir has a surface area of 27 acres and is situated on a tributary to Liming Creek, providing essential water resources to the region.

Maintained by the local government, Sparrow Reservoir Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as fair in 2017. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in July 2020, ensuring that proper guidelines and measures are in place to address any potential risks and emergencies. With a maximum discharge capacity of 3600 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a critical role in water management and flood control in the area.

With its strategic location and contribution to water supply, Sparrow Reservoir Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the community of Hagan Addition in Ohio. As an earth dam, it not only provides essential water storage but also offers flood protection and environmental benefits to the surrounding area. The ongoing inspections and adherence to regulatory standards underscore the commitment to maintaining the dam's integrity and ensuring the safety of the residents who rely on its services.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

32.6

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO LIMING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Drainage Area

0.88

Nid Storage

400

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.