Ottawa Upground Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
The Ottawa Upground Reservoir, located in Putnam County, Ohio, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Constructed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 342 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres, the reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for the residents of Ottawa and surrounding areas.
Managed and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, the Ottawa Upground Reservoir is designed to withstand high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of 2019. The dam has a drainage area of 0.03 square miles and is fed by the Blanchard River offstream, ensuring a reliable water supply for the community. Despite its high hazard potential, the reservoir is subject to regular inspections with an inspection frequency of 5 years to ensure its safety and integrity.
The Ottawa Upground Reservoir serves as a key water source for Ottawa, Ohio, and underscores the importance of water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and design, the reservoir provides essential water supply for the community while adhering to state regulations and inspection requirements. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the role this infrastructure plays in safeguarding water security and meeting the needs of the local population in Putnam County.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
3800 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
BLANCHARD RIVER - OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.03 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ottawa Upground Reservoir