Houston Upground Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Houston Upground Reservoir in Ohio is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1935, stands at a height of 12.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 71.1 million gallons, serving the community's water needs with a normal storage level of 38.5 million gallons. The reservoir covers an area of 6 acres and is located in Clinton County, near the city of Westboro, along the West Fork East Fork - Offstream.

Despite its historical significance and essential role in water supply, the Houston Upground Reservoir is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. It is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. The dam's last inspection in April 2019 highlighted its maintenance challenges, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and potentially a rehabilitation plan to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure for the community it serves.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the upkeep and improvement of critical infrastructure like the Houston Upground Reservoir is paramount. Ensuring the resilience and efficiency of such water supply systems is essential in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands. Collaborative efforts between local government, regulatory agencies, and the community can help address the challenges faced by aging infrastructure like the Houston Upground Reservoir and secure a sustainable water future for all.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

2200

Dam Height

12.9

River Or Stream

WEST FORK EAST FORK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

71.1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.