Authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1958, the Michael J. Kirwan Dam and Reservoir is one of 16 flood control projects in the Pittsburgh District.  The project provides flood protection for the Mahoning River Valley and the Beaver and upper Ohio River.

Since its completion in 1965, the Kirwan Reservoir has prevented flood damages estimated to be in excess of $488 million.  Kirwan has the capability to store the equivalent run-off of 18.35 inches of precipitation from its 80.5 square mile drainage area.  When compared, the $20 million cost of construction is by far outweighed by the project’s flood prevention benefits.

Kirwan also stores water for release downstream during dry periods.  This has the effect of improving both the quality and quantity of flow in the Mahoning River for domestic and industrial use, recreation, esthetics and aquatic life.

Lake & Dam Statistics

Vicinity Map

Recreation
Surrounded by the lush, green farmland of northern Ohio, the Michael J. Kirwan Dam provides miles of clean waters and scenic countryside for your enjoyment.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to visit the reservoir and experience the outdoor recreational opportunities that await you.

The Kirwan Reservoir is an impoundment of the West Branch of the Mahoning River and is an ideal site to boat, camp, fish and enjoy year round outdoor activities.  The reservoir and its surrounding lands are leased by the Corps of Engineers to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as West Branch State Park.  Visitors to the park will find numerous, well maintained facilities available for their enjoyment.

All sizes and types of watercraft are found boating on the reservoir.  Types range from cruisers and runabouts of unlimited horsepower – many with skiers in tow, to small fishing boats and canoes plying the coves and inlets in search of fish. Sailboats, with their colorful sails, are also found taking advantage of the summer breezes that come off of Lake Erie. The entire area west of Rock Spring Road causeway is a no-wake zone, excellent for a quite, leisurely boating or fishing trip.

Marine supplies, gasoline, boat rentals, docking facilities and a concession stand for hungry boaters are available at the modern marina located on the south shore.  There are two concrete launching ramps maintained on the reservoir and the Fisherman's Parking Area, located on the north shore adjacent to the causeway, is ideal for launching canoes and other small boats.

Fishing at Michael J. Kirwan is a rewarding activity.  The numerous deep feeder channels and shallow shoreline provide habitat for a variety of fish species.  The reservoir has yielded many trophy size walleye, muskie and striped bass. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie and bluegills are also found in abundance.  During the winter months, ice fishing is popular and many fine catches of walleye and panfish are taken.  Prior to going onto the ice, anglers should check with the State Park or Corps Park Office for current ice conditions.

The 12 miles of mountain bike trails, developed by the Cleveland Area Mountain Bike Association, at West Branch State Park offer an outstanding biking experience and have earned a five star rating.  The lakeside portion of the trail consists of flowing single-track that traces along the shore of the reservoir and includes many short climbs and descents in and out of the ravines that line the lake. This portion of the trail is suitable for most riders, although there are some challenging downhill sections that may be a bit much for the absolute beginner.  The single-track o­n the south side of Cable Line Road is more technical and challenging and is not suitable for beginners.  The Rock Gorge Trail offers some very scenic riding with single-track that drops the rider into a gorge with a flowing creek below and includes several very rocky sections.  The Rock Wall Trail offers some extremely challenging rock riding for advanced/expert riders but should NOT be attempted by beginners.

Hiking enthusiasts can spend their time on any of the several trails.  The State maintains several hiking trails adjacent to the camping area and an eight mile loop of the Buckeye Trail traverses the western end of the reservoir.  The Corps maintains a nature trail, Little Jewel Run, located in the vicinity of the dam's outflow.  In addition, there are also snowmobile, cross-country skiing and bridle trails available.

Even if you're just out for an afternoon drive sightseeing, why not stop and have a lakeside picnic at the reservoir?  The picnic areas are conveniently located and are provided with picnic tables, shelters and grills for your enjoyment.  Also, the park’s 700 foot sandy beach is ideal for cooling off on a hot summer day with clean restrooms and changing rooms.

Current Events
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in conjunction with Ohio Department of Natural Resources at West Branch State Park, will again host a series of programs highlighting the natural, cultural and historical significance of the reservoir and its surrounding area.  Programs will be at the Michael J. Kirwan Dam and Reservoir’s Visitor Center, located on Wayland Road 1-½ miles south of State Route 5, east of Ravenna in Paris Township.   For further information contact the Kirwan Dam staff at (330) 358-2370.