Defiance City Reservoir

In the past, the Maumee River served as the sole water supply for the City of Defiance. Water was pumped directly from the river to the treatment plant. Because of the susceptibility of the river to contamination from agricultural runoff, organic matter, and accidental chemical discharges, the City decided to construct an up-ground reservoir. During normal operation, water is pumped from the river to the reservoir and gravity flows back to the treatment plant. The reservoir acts as a pretreatment basin to provide a more consistent water quality to the treatment plant. When the water quality in the Maumee River is less than desirable, the river pumps are shut off and the plant continues to pull from the reservoir. This protects the raw water source for the plant. It is estimated that the reservoir could supply the City for up to 90 days without additional pumping from the river. The reservoir will also allow maintenance to be performed on the river intake structures and associated equipment and pumps without affecting the operation of the water plant.

The reservoir is located along Canal Road on the west side of Defiance. The reservoir contains approximately 350,000,000 gallons of water with a total water surface area of 74 acres. The average depth of the reservoir is 18 feet. The perimeter of the upper bank of the reservoir is approximately 1.6 miles. Beaver Excavating Company began construction of a new above-ground Reservoir in March 2007. The construction of the reservoir bank was completed in the fall of 2007. Filling of the reservoir began in January 2008. In the spring of 2008, ODNR began stocking the reservoir with Yellow Perch, Walleye, Saugeye, Bluegill, Large Mouth Bass and Channel Catfish. These fish will need several years to mature before they are large enough to be caught. In the fall of 2009 the City was awarded a grant from ODNR to complete construction of a boat ramp on the northwest corner of the reservoir to allow more access to the reservoir for fishing. However, no gasoline motors are allowed on the reservoir.

The City also owns additional ground adjacent to the reservoir. The entire site, including the reservoir is approximately 125 acres. A Reservoir Subcommittee has been form to investigate and recommend amenities to the new park area that will be established on the reservoir site. This group is largely comprised of local citizens and some City employees. Several civic groups have also expressed their interest in taking part. The group is looking at such things as shelter houses, walking trails, parking, boating, and other items to improve the reservoir site. If you, or your organization, are interested in becoming a part of this subcommittee, or if you have ideas or suggestions, contact Rob Cereghin, Service Director, at 419-784-2745.