Tarhe Dry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tarhe Dry Dam, located in Lancaster, Ohio, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1995.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet. With a normal storage of 4 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.3 acres, Tarhe Dry Dam plays a vital role in mitigating potential flood hazards in the region.

The dam, situated on Tarhe Run, is inspected every five years, with its last assessment in April 2017 showing satisfactory conditions. Despite its high hazard potential, the structure is deemed to be in good shape, meeting regulatory standards. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam is equipped to handle maximum discharges, ensuring the safety of surrounding areas. The risk assessment for Tarhe Dry Dam indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential emergencies.

Overall, Tarhe Dry Dam serves as a vital flood risk reduction mechanism in Fairfield County, Ohio, managed by local authorities and designed to protect the community from potential inundation events. Its strategic location, structural design, and ongoing inspection efforts demonstrate a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As a key component in the local flood control infrastructure, Tarhe Dry Dam plays a critical role in safeguarding lives and property from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TARHE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.3

Drainage Area

0.94

Nid Storage

93

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.