Wellsville Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
The Wellsville Reservoir Dam, located in Columbiana, Ohio, was completed in 1926 and stands at a height of 61.5 feet, with a length of 426 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam is primarily used for water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 410 acre-feet and a drainage area of 16.8 square miles. The reservoir created by the dam covers an area of 23 acres and is fed by the Little Yellow Creek.
Despite its age, the Wellsville Reservoir Dam is still in use and regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. However, its condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a history of inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2019, and an emergency action plan is in place, though it may need updating to meet current guidelines.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Wellsville Reservoir Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of aging infrastructure. Its location in a picturesque setting along the Little Yellow Creek adds to its significance, making it a focal point for discussions on water supply, dam safety, and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's reliability and safety, its role in providing essential water resources to the region remains vital, highlighting the intersection of human infrastructure with natural landscapes in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
426 |
Dam Height |
61.5 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE YELLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Drainage Area |
16.8 |
Nid Storage |
410 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
62 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yellow Creek Near Hammondsville Oh
|
41cfs |
Little Beaver Creek Near East Liverpool Oh
|
254cfs |
Kings Creek At Weirton
|
15cfs |
Raccoon Creek At Moffatts Mill
|
64cfs |
Beaver River At Beaver Falls
|
1730cfs |
Ohio River At Sewickley
|
10100cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tomlinson Run State Park
|
||
Beaver Creek State Park
|
||
Jefferson Lake State Park
|
Wellsville Reservoir Dam