East Branch Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

East Branch Reservoir Dam, located in Geauga County, Ohio, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 1800 feet, with a storage capacity of 9650 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, drawing water from the East Branch Cuyahoga River to meet the needs of the surrounding community.

Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2017, with a high hazard potential. It is regulated and inspected by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets safety standards. The dam has a drainage area of 18.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 13,350 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial component of the local water infrastructure.

As a key piece of water resource management in the region, East Branch Reservoir Dam plays a critical role in providing reliable water supply to the community. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam continues to be a vital asset for water security and climate resilience in Geauga County, Ohio.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

EAST BRANCH CUYAHOGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

395

Drainage Area

18.6

Nid Storage

9650

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.