North Reservoir Dam, located in Summit County, Ohio, is a state-regulated structure owned by the State of Ohio and managed by the Department of Natural Resources.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1840, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12.7 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 1111 acre-feet and a surface area of 166 acres. Despite its historical significance, the dam has been rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition, last inspected in August 2015.
The dam, situated in the city of Portage Lakes and part of the Tuscarawas River's tributary system, poses a risk due to its outdated infrastructure and maintenance issues. With a drainage area of 1.34 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 362 cubic feet per second, the dam's poor condition raises concerns for potential emergencies. Although an emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in April 2019, the dam's risk assessment, management measures, and inundation maps remain unclear, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols and regular inspections to ensure the community's protection from any potential hazards.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor the status of North Reservoir Dam closely, given its importance for recreation and potential risks associated with its condition. With a primary focus on public safety and environmental conservation, stakeholders must advocate for necessary upgrades, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures to safeguard the surrounding areas from any potential dam failures or flooding events. By staying informed and actively engaging in discussions around the dam's maintenance and regulatory oversight, we can work towards ensuring the long-term resilience of this critical water infrastructure in Summit County, Ohio.
Year Completed |
1840 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
12.7 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO TUSCARAWAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
166 |
Drainage Area |
1.34 |
Nid Storage |
1111 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
13 |