Nimisila Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Nimisila Reservoir Dam, located in Summit County, Ohio, stands as a vital water supply structure designed by the Ohio Department of Public Works and completed in 1936.


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Summary

With a dam height of 44 feet and a storage capacity of 17,500 acre-feet, the reservoir serves as a key source of water for the region, particularly for the city of Canal Fulton. The dam regulates the flow of Nimisila Creek, ensuring a steady water supply for various purposes, including drinking water and irrigation.

Despite its critical role in water management, the Nimisila Reservoir Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, with a current rating of poor and a high hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted by the Department of Natural Resources to monitor its structural integrity and ensure public safety. The dam's emergency action plan is also being reviewed to meet guidelines and mitigate risks associated with potential inundation events.

Given its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, Nimisila Reservoir Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource management and climate adaptation in the region. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the importance of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure like the Nimisila Dam becomes increasingly apparent for safeguarding water resources and ensuring sustainable development in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

10630

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

NIMISILA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

672

Drainage Area

15.9

Nid Storage

17500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.