Tuscarawas River Diversion Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: East Reservoir Dam West Reservoir Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
The Tuscarawas River Diversion Dam in Ohio, designed by F.W.
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Summary
Stafford and completed in 1956, stands as a remarkable Earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 1000 feet, the dam provides storage of 1740 acre-feet and is situated along the Tuscarawas River in Summit County. Its location in Portage Lakes offers a surface area of 83 acres and a drainage area of 35.4 square miles, making it a vital water resource for the region.
Managed by the Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated and inspected by the state, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2015 deemed it satisfactory. With a maximum discharge capacity of 15080 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the area. Additionally, its emergency action plan is continuously updated and meets regulatory guidelines, further solidifying its role as a reliable water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Tuscarawas River Diversion Dam serves as a fascinating example of sustainable water management and recreational development. Its historical significance, combined with its modern regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness, highlights the importance of maintaining and safeguarding critical infrastructure for future generations. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Tuscarawas play a vital role in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TUSCARAWAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
83 |
Drainage Area |
35.4 |
Nid Storage |
1740 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Tuscarawas River Diversion Dam
Portage Lakes State Park - Long Lake