I. INTRODUCTION/BRIEF HISTORY

This report provides a summary of the operations of the city of Oakwood water system for the year 2018. It includes the following items:

  • Water Pumpage Statistics
  • Water Monitoring and Testing (OEPA Compliance)
  • Water System Maintenance
  • Budget Summary

Brief History

Prior to 1954, the city of Oakwood purchased all of its water from outside sources, primarily the city of Dayton. At that time, the Ohio Department of Health regulated public water systems and the rules and regulations were fairly limited, thus the price of water was relatively low. In 1954 Oakwood drilled two wells at 120 Springhouse Road. This site became known as the “Springhouse Wellfield.” This was the beginning of Oakwood’s quest to become water independent.

From 1954 to 1965 Oakwood pumped water from these two wells. This proved so successful that three new wells (Wells #1, 2 & 3) were drilled to a greater depth so as to sustain heavier pumping. The original two wells were abandoned. This increased water production lowered Oakwood’s reliance on Dayton water. The water was chlorinated to ensure that it was free from bacteria.

In 1978 a second well field was developed at the south end of Firwood Drive off Irving Avenue in Dayton. It was referred to as the “Firwood Wellfield.” Between 1978 and 1988 three production wells (Wells #4, 5 & 6) were drilled at this location. The groundwater resources in this area proved to be abundant. In 1985 Oakwood purchased land on the north side of Irving Avenue to build a soccer field. In 1986 Well #7 was drilled adjacent to the soccer field. This site became known as the “Soccer Field Wellfield”.

Prior to using water from the Firwood Wellfield, the Ohio EPA required the City to construct an Iron and Manganese Removal Plant due to elevated levels of iron and manganese in Well #5. The plant was constructed in 1980 at the 210 Shafor Boulevard Service Yard. This plant also housed the chlorination system for Wells #4, 5, 6 & 7.

In 1987 Oakwood explored the possibility of softening the City water. In 1988 plans were completed for the water softening plant at 210 Shafor Boulevard. The plant was constructed in 1989. In 1991 plans were completed for the water softening plant at 120 Springhouse Road and the plant was built in 1992. Both water softening plants use the “Ion Exchange” softening process. This is the same process used in most private home water softening units. The softening system removes hardness, primarily calcium and magnesium. Periodically the softening units require backwashing and regenerating of the resin bed filters.

In 2004, Oakwood drilled Well #8 in the Firwood Wellfield and placed it into service. This well was needed to further enhance Oakwood’s water independence.

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