Graymont Sludge Lagoons Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Graymont Sludge Lagoons in Genoa, Ohio, are privately owned tailings dams that were completed in 1981 to store mining waste.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources, these lagoons have a significant hazard potential and are in poor condition, according to the last inspection in October 2019. With a total storage capacity of 354.3 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 27.2 acres, these earth dams on Toussaint Creek play a crucial role in environmental protection and water resource management in Ottawa County.

Despite their important function, Graymont Sludge Lagoons face challenges in terms of their structural integrity and maintenance. The inspection frequency is set at every 5 years, indicating the need for regular monitoring and potential improvements to ensure their safety and efficiency. The presence of significant hazard potential underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures, emergency action plans, and updated contact information to address any unforeseen incidents or emergencies that may arise.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to recognize the role of Graymont Sludge Lagoons in managing tailings and protecting the local environment. By understanding their purpose, condition, and potential risks, stakeholders can work together to enhance the resilience and sustainability of these structures, safeguarding water resources and ecosystems in Ottawa, Ohio.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

4450

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TOUSSAINT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.2

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

354.3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.