Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oberlin Waterworks Upground No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

1&2, located in Lorain, Ohio, is a significant water supply infrastructure managed by the local government. This earth dam structure, completed with a height of 11.5 feet and a storage capacity of 60.6 acre-feet, plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources for the region. The dam overlooks Plum Creek, serving as an offstream source crucial for water supply in the area.

Despite its importance, the dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one being in September 2018, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure the safety and efficiency of the waterworks. With the state regulatory agency overseeing its operations and enforcement, the Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2 remains a key asset for water resource management in the region, albeit with a call for attention to its current condition and risk management measures.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2 presents an intriguing case study for infrastructure management and the challenges of balancing water supply needs with dam safety and maintenance requirements. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of such vital structures becomes increasingly crucial. With a clear understanding of its current condition and risk assessment, stakeholders can work towards implementing effective risk management measures and potentially enhancing the overall performance of the Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2 for the benefit of both the community and the environment.

Dam Length

2440

Dam Height

11.5

River Or Stream

PLUM CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

60.6

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

View more

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2Vermilion River near Vermilion OH Preview Vermilion River Near Vermilion Oh
22.9cfs
23cfs
Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2Black River at Elyria OH Preview Black River At Elyria Oh
41.5cfs
42cfs
Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2Old Woman Creek at Berlin Rd near Huron OH Preview Old Woman Creek At Berlin Rd Near Huron Oh
0.55cfs
1cfs
Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2Plum Creek near Olmsted Falls OH Preview Plum Creek Near Olmsted Falls Oh
1.91cfs
2cfs
Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2West Branch Rocky River at West View OH Preview West Branch Rocky River At West View Oh
41.8cfs
42cfs
Oberlin Waterworks Upground No. 1&2Baker Creek at Olmstead Falls OH Preview Baker Creek At Olmstead Falls Oh
3.53cfs
4cfs

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.
View more

Nearby Reservoirs

View more

Featured Parks