Gorge Plant Dam
Key Takeaway
Gorge Plant Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 Height | 57 ft (taller than 95% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 929 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 34 acres |
| Drainage Area | 317 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,657 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00481 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
FirstEnergy Corporation
Public Utility
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What is the hazard classification of Gorge Plant Dam?
Gorge Plant 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 Gorge Plant Dam?
Gorge Plant Dam is owned by FirstEnergy Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gorge Plant Dam built?
Gorge Plant Dam was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Gorge Plant Dam?
Gorge Plant 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 Gorge Plant Dam?
Gorge Plant Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Gorge Plant Dam last inspected?
Gorge Plant Dam was last inspected on December 6, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.