Defiance Upground Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Defiance Upground Reservoir in Defiance, Ohio, is a vital water supply reservoir managed by the local government.
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Summary
With a dam height of 23.5 feet and a storage capacity of 1587 acre-feet, this reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding community. Completed in 2007, the reservoir is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
Located on an unnamed tributary to the Auglaize River, Defiance Upground Reservoir serves as a key water source for the area, with a high hazard potential that requires careful monitoring and maintenance. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2017, the reservoir continues to meet guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures. With its strategic design by URS Corporation and state permitting and enforcement in place, this reservoir exemplifies responsible water resource management in the face of climate challenges.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the importance of Defiance Upground Reservoir in securing a reliable water supply for Defiance, Ohio, and its surrounding areas. The reservoir's primary purpose of water supply underscores the critical role it plays in sustaining the local community, while its earth dam structure and regular inspections ensure its integrity and safety. From its construction in 2007 to its ongoing risk management measures, Defiance Upground Reservoir stands as a testament to effective water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
7800 |
Dam Height |
23.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED TRIBUTARY TO AUGLAIZE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
1587 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Defiance Upground Reservoir
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