Defiance City Reservoir

The Maumee River currently serves as the sole water supply for the City of Defiance. Water is 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. This reservoir will provide a 90 day supply at average daily demand in the event water quality in the Maumee River should become a concern. During normal operation, the reservoir will act as a pretreatment basin to provide a more consistent water quality to the treatment plant. This reservoir will also allow maintenance to be performed on the river intake structures and associated equipment and pumps.

The reservoir is located along Canal Road on the west side of Defiance. This reservoir contains approximately 350,000,000 gallons of water with a total water surface area of 74 acres. 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 of 2007. The construction of the reservoir bank was completed in the fall of 2007. Filling of the reservoir began in January and Defiance Water Division hopes to have the reservoir operational by the end of February. The reservoir should be completely full by April 2008. This spring, ODNR will be stocking the reservoir with several varieties of fish. These fish will need several years to mature before they are large enough to be caught.

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. Some 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.