Salem Reservoir (South Embankment) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Salem Reservoir (South Embankment) in Columbiana, Ohio, is a vital water supply structure designed by Chester Engineers and completed in 1952.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 47.6 feet and has a storage capacity of 2182 acre-feet, serving as a crucial resource for the surrounding West Point area. The reservoir is regulated and inspected by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and functionality for the community.
With a surface area of 110 acres and a drainage area of 0.64 square miles, Salem Reservoir plays a key role in supplying water to the region while also posing a high hazard potential due to its size and structural characteristics. Despite being assessed as in fair condition as of April 2019, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its continued safety and reliability. The reservoir's emergency action plan is periodically reviewed and updated to meet guidelines, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management measures in safeguarding this essential water resource.
Located in the Pittsburgh District and associated with Middle Fork Little Beaver Creek, Salem Reservoir (South Embankment) remains a critical infrastructure for water supply in the region. As climate change impacts water resources, this reservoir's maintenance and regulation by state authorities are crucial for ensuring a sustainable and secure water source for the local community. With its historical significance and ongoing monitoring, Salem Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
2825 |
Dam Height |
47.6 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO MIDDLE FORK LITTLE BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
110 |
Drainage Area |
0.64 |
Nid Storage |
2182 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
48 |
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.
Salem Reservoir (South Embankment)
Scenic Vista Park
Waterworth Memorial Park
Harvey S. Firestone Memorial Park