Auglaize Hydro Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Auglaize Hydro, also known as the Defiance Reservoir, is a gravity dam located in Defiance, Ohio, along the Auglaize River.


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Summary

Built in 1913 by the Ambursen Hydraulic Construction Company, this hydroelectric facility serves as an important source of renewable energy in the region. With a dam height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 15,000 acre-feet, Auglaize Hydro plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, Auglaize Hydro is also a popular recreational spot with its surface area of 500 acres. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric generation, with three Tainter (radial) gates serving as outlet structures for water release. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's high risk assessment rating underscores the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

With a drainage area of 2,318 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 6,981 cubic feet per second, Auglaize Hydro stands as a testament to sustainable water resource utilization and climate-friendly energy production. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate action, the significance of dams like Auglaize Hydro in promoting renewable energy and environmental stewardship cannot be overstated.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Auglaize River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

500

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

2318

Nid Storage

15000

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.