The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has released its 2025 Infrastructure Report Card for Ohio—and the state earned an overall grade of C. That’s up from a C– in 2021, a sign that investments are starting to move the needle. But it’s also a reminder of just how much work remains, especially in areas tied to water systems, climate resilience, and public safety.
At the Miami Conservancy District (MCD), we see this report as a call to action.
What the Grade Means for Ohio
The ASCE evaluated 17 categories of infrastructure, from roads and bridges to parks, rail, and levees. Some areas show promise, while others lag far behind where they need to be.
Improved Categories:
Troubling Scores:
Ohio faces a multi-billion-dollar funding backlog, especially in aging water infrastructure. A staggering $16 billion is needed just to bring drinking water systems up to speed. Meanwhile, outdated sewer systems and undersized storm drains leave many communities vulnerable to flooding and pollution.
What This Means for the Miami Conservancy District
Here in southwest Ohio, these infrastructure challenges hit close to home—because water is at the center of everything. THese grades were not specifically given to MCD dams or levees - but reflect a statewide grade overall.
We undergo annual inspections by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and conduct frequent internal reviews to ensure our dams continue to meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
But inspections aren’t enough—ongoing investment, maintenance, and modernization are critical. As infrastructure across the country ages, the value of MCD’s consistent, proactive care becomes even more apparent. Our communities trust these structures—and that trust is earned through rigorous oversight and steady funding.
1. Water Infrastructure Is a Team Sport
MCD protects and supports the water systems that our communities rely on, from aquifer recharge to floodplain preservation. As Ohio tackles drinking water and wastewater improvements, upstream protection—through healthy rivers, managed floodplains, and clean recharge areas—is more critical than ever.
2. Stormwater Is a Growing Threat
With weather patterns are bringing more intense rainfall, stormwater management is no longer just a city issue. The ASCE’s “D” grade for stormwater infrastructure is a warning sign that Ohio needs more green infrastructure, restored floodplains, and resilient watershed planning—all things MCD is already advancing.
3. We Must Keep Our Flood Protection Strong
MCD’s flood protection system of dams, levees, storage basins, and channel improvements has kept our region safe for over a century. While Ohio’s levees improved to a C+, ongoing investment and maintenance are essential to avoid slipping backward. This is no time to assume the job is done.
4. The Nation’s Dams Received a Grade of D—What That Means for Us
Across the U.S., more than 16,000 dams are classified as high-hazard potential, meaning failure would likely result in loss of life. The ASCE gave dams a D grade nationally, citing aging structures, insufficient funding, and increasing climate pressures as major risks.
For MCD, this national warning reinforces the importance of our local dam safety program. We operate and maintain five major dry dams across the Great Miami River Watershed. Each one plays a critical role in protecting lives, property, and infrastructure in our region.
5. The Region Needs Trusted Leaders in Resilience
MCD is uniquely positioned to guide and partner on high-impact projects. We bring a regional perspective, deep technical expertise, and a long-standing commitment to water stewardship.
Infrastructure Is Invisible—Until It Fails
Bridges and roads might be easy to spot, but many of the most important systems are hidden underground or behind levees. When the infrastructure works well, it’s silent. When it fails, the consequences are loud and devastating.
That’s why we do what we do.
At MCD, we are constantly working behind the scenes to protect lives, property, and clean water for today and for generations to come.
Let this “C” grade be a conversation starter, not a conclusion. Together, we can raise the grade and build a more resilient Ohio—one watershed at a time.
