Bridge Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Bridge Creek Dam, also known as Ladue Reservoir, is a vital water supply structure located in Hiram Rapids, Geauga County, Ohio.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by Parsons, Brinkerhoff, Quade and Douglas of New York, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches 4,800 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 41,505 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1,420 acres. The dam regulates the flow of Bridge Creek and Black Brook, serving as a crucial source of water for the surrounding community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Bridge Creek Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2017. With a maximum discharge capacity of 23,080 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of providing water supply while ensuring public safety through regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bridge Creek Dam offers a fascinating case study of infrastructure resilience and the intersection of human development with natural water systems. Its history, design, and ongoing maintenance provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of managing water resources in a changing climate. As a key piece of Ohio's water infrastructure, Bridge Creek Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding communities and ecosystems for generations to come.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

4800

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

BRIDGE CREEK AND BLACK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1420

Drainage Area

35.1

Nid Storage

41505

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.