Rutledge Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rutledge Lake Dam, located in Tuscarawas, Ohio, is a significant earth dam completed in 1951 with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at 32.3 feet in height and has a length of 602 feet, creating a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet of water. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
With a fair condition assessment as of July 2020, Rutledge Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures. The dam overlooks a tributary to Beaverdam Creek and serves as a recreational hub for the local community, offering a surface area of 7.5 acres for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan and risk assessment protocols are under review to meet safety guidelines.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Rutledge Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure in Ohio's scenic landscape, blending both practical utility and recreational appeal. As a privately-owned earth dam, its historical significance, regulatory oversight, and potential risks underscore the delicate balance between water management for recreation and environmental protection. With ongoing inspections and risk assessments, Rutledge Lake Dam remains a focal point for both local residents and visitors seeking to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this water resource in Tuscarawas County.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
602 |
Dam Height |
32.3 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO BEAVERDAM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
109 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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.
Rutledge Lake Dam