Shady Grove Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Shady Grove Dam, located in Clay, Ohio, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA - SCS and completed in 1962.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 15.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 21.7 acre-feet, primarily serving recreational purposes in the area. Situated along a tributary to Symmes Creek, the dam has a surface area of 2.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.1 square miles.
The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in October 2016, revealing a fair condition assessment. With a significant hazard potential, the dam has an inspection frequency of every five years and falls under the jurisdiction of the state. Despite its fair condition, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in June 2020, indicating ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Shady Grove Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the importance of its maintenance and regulation to mitigate potential risks. As part of the broader network of dams in Ohio, Shady Grove Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water management for leisure and the need for responsible stewardship to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure sustainable water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
285 |
Dam Height |
15.7 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO SYMMES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
21.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Raccoon Creek Near Ewington Oh
|
18cfs |
Raccoon Creek At Adamsville Oh
|
130cfs |
Symmes Creek At Aid Oh
|
110cfs |
Ohio River At Greenup Dam Near Greenup
|
33900cfs |
Scioto River At Higby Oh
|
1480cfs |
Scioto River At Piketon Oh
|
1690cfs |
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.
Shady Grove Dam