Flood Protection System Activated; Parks and Gate Closures in Place
DAYTON, OHIO (December 29, 2024) – For the ninth time this year, the Miami Conservancy District is storing floodwaters at its dams following a rainfall of 1.00 to 1.50 inches overnight across the Miami Valley. The flood protection system is actively managing high water levels to reduce flood risks for communities in the region.
Current Status of the Flood Protection System
Since its completion in 1922, the Miami Conservancy District flood protection system has stored floodwater more than 2,150 times, safeguarding cities along the Great Miami River. The system includes five dams, levees, and a network of storage basins. This proactive approach significantly reduces flood risks from the Great Miami River and its tributaries.
Flood Protection System: A Regional Necessity
The Miami Conservancy District flood protection system has been tested frequently in recent decades, with a 228% increase in storage events over historical averages. These trends highlight the critical importance of ongoing maintenance and investment to ensure the system continues to perform as designed.
Assessment Rates to Increase in 2025
In June 2024, the Conservancy Court voted to increase the maintenance rate used to calculate property assessments to 3.35%, up from the previous rate of 2.19%. This increase ensures adequate funding for ongoing maintenance of the flood protection system, including levees, dams, and storage basins.
Additionally, in February 2024, the Conservancy Court approved a 1% capital assessment for the rehabilitation of 55 miles of levees and five flood protection dams. Revenue from this capital assessment will support critical infrastructure rehabilitation, ensuring continued protection for the region’s communities and economic vitality.
Protecting Communities and Supporting Economic Vitality
Since its inception, Miami Conservancy District has worked tirelessly to protect communities from catastrophic flooding while enhancing the region’s quality of life. In addition to its flood protection role, Miami Conservancy District supports recreational opportunities, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality throughout Southwest Ohio.
For more information about the Miami Conservancy District flood protection system, assessments, or infrastructure projects, visit www.mcdwater.org.
About the Miami Conservancy District
The Miami Conservancy District was established following the devastating 1913 Flood. For over a century, MCD’s integrated flood protection system has protected lives and property along the Great Miami River while supporting recreation, water stewardship, and economic development in Southwest Ohio.