Bolivar Dam

SANDY CREEK· Stark, Ohio· Built 1938· Earth·

High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Bolivar Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length	6,300 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	149.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage	0 acre-ft

Surface Area	0 acres
Drainage Area	504 sq mi
Max Discharge	61,700 cfs
Year Completed	1938 (88 years old)
NID ID	OH00004

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: June 25, 2021

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bolivar Dam?

Bolivar Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bolivar Dam?

Bolivar Dam is owned by USACE - Huntington District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Bolivar Dam built?

Bolivar Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Bolivar Dam?

Bolivar Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Bolivar Dam last inspected?

Bolivar Dam was last inspected on June 25, 2021. 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.