Roundup Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Portage County, Ohio, Roundup Lake Dam is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.4 feet and spans 860 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 188 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to Aurora Branch, the dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure public safety.

With a hazard potential rated as significant and a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in May 2018, Roundup Lake Dam is a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure. Its normal storage capacity of 94 acre-feet supports recreational activities for visitors to the area, while the dam also serves as a critical flood control measure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Roundup Lake Dam are essential to protect both people and the environment.

As a key feature in the Buffalo District, Roundup Lake Dam showcases the intersection of human engineering with natural water systems. The dam's location in the city of Silo provides a valuable recreational resource for the community, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. With its historical significance dating back over seven decades, Roundup Lake Dam represents a blend of functionality, safety, and enjoyment in the midst of Ohio's water landscape.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

12.4

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO AURORA BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

188

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.