Wellington Upground Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wellington Upground Reservoir, located in Lorain County, Ohio, is a vital water supply infrastructure designed by Finkbeiner, Pettis, & Strout in Toledo.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this Earth dam stands at 35 feet tall and spans 11,391 feet, with a storage capacity of 4,632 acre-feet. The reservoir's primary purpose is to ensure a reliable water supply for the city of Wellington, drawing water from the offstream Charlemont Creek.

Maintained and regulated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, this reservoir is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure public safety and water security. With a hazard potential classified as high and a fair condition assessment as of October 2018, the Wellington Upground Reservoir plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and providing water resources for the region. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to serve its purpose effectively, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management in the face of climate variability.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wellington Upground Reservoir serves as a prime example of infrastructure resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. As part of the Buffalo District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, this reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management in safeguarding water resources for present and future generations. The combination of engineering excellence and regulatory oversight ensures that the reservoir remains a critical asset for water supply and flood control in Lorain County, Ohio.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

11391

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

CHARLEMONT CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

163

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

4632

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.