O'Shaughnessy Dam (Ohio)

This article concerns the dam near Columbus, Ohio. For the one in the Sierra Nevada mountains, see O'Shaughnessy Dam.

Background

The O'Shaughnessy Dam is located on the Scioto River near Dublin, Ohio, USA. The dam forms O'Shaughnessy Reservoir, which is a major source of drinking water for the city of Columbus. It was completed in 1925 following recommendations of then superintendent Jerry O'Shaughnessy (for whom the dam was named). Located 10 miles upstream of the smaller Griggs Dam, it provides a large area for various forms of recreation in addition to its water supply duties. The reservoir holds 6.3 billion gallons (24 million cubic meters) over a surface area of 845 acres (342 hectares). The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is located on the east bank of the reservoir, near the dam.

Hydroelectricity

The city of Columbus installed a hydroelectric operation on the west side of the dam, which was completed in 1987. The turbines can only be operated when there is sufficient flow, which means the dam cannot continuously produce electricity. With a head of 18 feet (5.5 m), the two turbines together produce 5 megawatts.

External links

• USGS Real-Time Water Data

References