Rushcreek Structure No. Vii-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rushcreek Structure No.


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Summary

Vii-A is a significant earth dam located in Fairfield, Ohio, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1985 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This structure plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the tributary to Raccoon Run, with a dam height of 40.7 feet and a length of 1170 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1585 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.4 square miles, serving as a vital component in the local water resource infrastructure.

The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state authority. Despite having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment conducted in 2017 reported it as satisfactory, with a moderate risk level. The structure has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with regular inspections scheduled every five years to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its strategic location and design, Rushcreek Structure No. Vii-A is an essential asset for flood risk mitigation in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Rushcreek Structure No. Vii-A to be a captivating example of engineering and environmental management. Its role in flood risk reduction, combined with its state-regulated status and satisfactory condition, highlights the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events. As part of the broader water resource system in Ohio, this dam showcases the intersection of human ingenuity and natural processes in maintaining a sustainable and resilient environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

1170

Dam Height

40.7

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO RACCOON RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

1585

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

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.