Rio Grande Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Rio Grande Reservoir, located in Gallia County, Ohio, is a man-made structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.2 acres, the reservoir offers a serene location for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.
However, despite its recreational appeal, Rio Grande Reservoir poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of October 2016. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and it is subject to inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The Department of Natural Resources in Ohio regulates and enforces the state's jurisdiction over the reservoir, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and monitoring this vital water resource.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the area and serving as a tributary to Indian Creek, Rio Grande Reservoir is an essential part of the local ecosystem and community. With its designated purpose for recreation, the reservoir offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature while also highlighting the importance of proper management and maintenance of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
30.1 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raccoon Creek At Adamsville Oh
|
130cfs |
Little Raccoon Creek Near Ewington Oh
|
18cfs |
Symmes Creek At Aid Oh
|
110cfs |
Raccoon Creek Near Bolin Mills Oh
|
47cfs |
Ohio River At Ironton
|
25600cfs |
Shade River Near Chester Oh
|
43cfs |
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.
Rio Grande Reservoir