Julian Griggs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Julian Griggs Dam, located in Upper Arlington, Ohio, stands as a testament to efficient water resource management and climate adaptation.


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Summary

Built in 1905 by designer Julian Griggs, this gravity dam serves as a vital water supply infrastructure for the region, regulating the flow of the Scioto River. With a height of 52.4 feet and a length of 983 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 16,412 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 4,322 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Julian Griggs Dam remains in fair condition, with a high hazard potential due to its critical role in water supply management. The dam undergoes regular inspections and is regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its continued safe operation. In the event of emergencies, the dam is equipped with an emergency action plan, although its last revision date was in February 2020.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will appreciate the significance of Julian Griggs Dam in maintaining water supply stability in Franklin County, Ohio. With its historical importance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam serves as a key component in the region's water management infrastructure, safeguarding against potential hazards and ensuring sustainable water resource utilization for future generations.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

983

Dam Height

52.4

River Or Stream

SCIOTO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

385

Drainage Area

1044

Nid Storage

16412

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

52
       
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.