Delaware Dam

OLENTANGY RIVER· Delaware, Ohio· Built 1951· Concrete·

Key Takeaway

Delaware Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 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 Length18,600 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage132.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage14.0K acre-ft
Surface Area1,300 acres
Drainage Area386 sq mi
Max Discharge96,000 cfs
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDOH00015

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: April 16, 2021
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Delaware Dam?

Delaware 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 Delaware Dam?

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

When was Delaware Dam built?

Delaware Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Delaware Dam?

Delaware Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Delaware Dam last inspected?

Delaware Dam was last inspected on April 16, 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.