Bucyrus Reservoir No. 3 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bucyrus Reservoir No.
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Summary
3 Dam, also known as Riley Reservoir, is a critical water supply structure located in Bucyrus, Ohio. Constructed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 31.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 695 acre-feet. Situated on the Sandusky River, this offstream reservoir serves as a primary water source for the local community, with a normal storage capacity of 572 acre-feet spread over a surface area of 30.1 acres.
Despite its importance, the Bucyrus Reservoir No. 3 Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which was rated as poor during the last inspection in May 2018. The dam's hazard potential is categorized as high, highlighting the urgent need for maintenance and risk management measures. With a frequency of inspection set at every five years, efforts are underway to address the dam's structural concerns and ensure its continued safety and functionality for water supply purposes.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, this dam plays a crucial role in sustaining the water needs of the community. As climate change impacts water resources, it becomes increasingly important to maintain and upgrade infrastructure like Bucyrus Reservoir No. 3 Dam to secure a reliable water supply in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
5131 |
Dam Height |
31.5 |
River Or Stream |
SANDUSKY RIVER - OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
695 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Bucyrus Reservoir No. 3 Dam