Bethesda Reservoir Dam

TRIBUTARY TO BEND FORK· Belmont, Ohio· Built 1959· Earth· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Bethesda Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 61.5% in OH)
Dam Length550 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage193 acre-ft
Normal Storage98 acre-ft
Surface Area14 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge328 cfs
Year Completed1959 (67 years old)
NID IDOH00293

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 11, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Natural Resources

Ownership

Village of Bethesda

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bethesda Reservoir Dam?

Bethesda Reservoir Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bethesda Reservoir Dam?

Bethesda Reservoir Dam is owned by Village of Bethesda (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Bethesda Reservoir Dam built?

Bethesda Reservoir Dam was completed in 1959, making it 67 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Bethesda Reservoir Dam?

Bethesda Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bethesda Reservoir Dam?

Bethesda Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 30 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Bethesda Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Bethesda Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.