Wellston Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wellston Reservoir Dam in Ohio, completed in 1920, serves as a vital water supply infrastructure for the local community in Ratchford, Jackson County.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 460 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, the dam is currently rated as having a poor condition assessment and a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.

Managed by the local government, the Wellston Reservoir Dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The dam primarily serves the purpose of water supply and is situated along a tributary to Little Raccoon Creek. The reservoir covers an area of 5.2 acres and has a drainage area of 0.06 square miles, emphasizing its importance in managing water resources for the region.

With a last inspection date in 2016 and an inspection frequency of every five years, the Wellston Reservoir Dam's condition assessment and hazard potential raise concerns for the surrounding community. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it becomes crucial to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Wellston to ensure their resilience and functionality in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO LITTLE RACCOON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.2

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

95

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
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.