Metzger Upground Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Metzger Upground Reservoir, located in Lima, Ohio, is a vital water supply infrastructure owned by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1946 and regulated by the Department of Natural Resources, this reservoir serves the primary purpose of water supply for the area. With a dam height of 45 feet and a storage capacity of 4346 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the community.

Designed by JONES & HENRY ENGINEERS LTD., TOLEDO, OHIO, this Earth-type dam spans over 10,000 feet in length and covers a surface area of 156 acres. The reservoir has a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in May 2017. With a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second, this reservoir ensures a reliable water source for the residents of Allen County, Ohio.

Despite its age, Metzger Upground Reservoir continues to be a reliable water supply source, meeting the state's regulatory standards for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. With its strategic location along the Ottawa River - Offstream, this reservoir remains a critical infrastructure for the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As climate change impacts water availability, the role of reservoirs like Metzger becomes increasingly significant in ensuring water security for communities in Ohio.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

10353

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

OTTAWA RIVER - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

156

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

4346

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.