Golden Bear Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Golden Bear Reservoir Dam, located in Dublin, Ohio, is a privately owned structure designed by Burgess and Niple, Ltd.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1972, serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.7 acres. Situated on a tributary to Deer Run, the dam stands at a height of 26.4 feet and has a length of 270 feet, offering a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Although the dam's hazard potential is considered low, it has a poor condition assessment as of December 2020. The state of Ohio regulates, permits, inspects, and enforces the dam's operations, ensuring compliance with safety standards. Despite its condition, Golden Bear Reservoir Dam remains a popular spot for outdoor activities, attracting visitors to its picturesque surroundings and providing a recreational haven within the Delaware County region.

With its unique location and design, Golden Bear Reservoir Dam continues to be a notable landmark in the area, offering both relaxation and adventure opportunities for locals and visitors alike. As climate change impacts water resources around the world, the maintenance and upkeep of such structures are crucial for sustainable water management practices and the preservation of natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

26.4

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO DEER RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.7

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.