The story of Bluffton's 187 million gallons of water
Icon note: Friday's chamber breakfast provided one of the most informative programs on a topic that affects everyone in Bluffton. We urge viewers to open the attachment to this story for more information.
Bluffton's H 2 O: where it comes from and where it goes.
That topic gained the attention of a Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce full house during its June 14 breakfast week.
Ryan Brauen of Wessler Engineering, told about how Bluffton’s drinking water gets into household taps. John Bowers, village wastewater treatment operator, told about how the village makes it clean again.
“Imagine the National Quarry on Jefferson Street filled with water to a depth of 20 feet, Brauen told chamber members. “Bluffton uses that much water – it’s 187 million gallons – each year.”
Bowers told the audience that 100 percent of the water that goes into the wastewater treatment plant also comes out of the plant.
To the question “How can you help?” Bower provided these tips:
● Don't throw trash in the toilet or down drains.
● Reduce unnecessary water coming to the plant, such as sump pumps and downspouts.
● Don't flush toxic chemicals, medications and oils.
● Have your septic system maintained and inspected regularly
Both presenters provide additional details about Bluffton’s water. A PowerPoint presentation below provides additional information about Bluffton water.
CLICK HERE for the PowerPoint.
Stories Posted This Week
Thursday, October 1, 2026
- ICYMI: September 2026 Bluffton Icon Highlights
- October 1 Bluffton Schools athletics lineup, streaming
- Ar-Hale Family Foundation supports Crime Victim Services
- Bluffton Police answer 672 calls for service in August 2026
- Pressure: Beets for the heart
- BHS Junior Class fundraiser for Post Prom
- Beaver and Pirate homecoming doubleheader
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- Pirate volleyball loss vs. Lincolnview
- Village of Bluffton meetings announced, Oct. 1-Nov. 2
- 100 years of being Beavers: 2026 Bluffton University Homecoming, Oct. 2-4
- Check out October 2026 BPL Update
- Final call for for Bluffton photos contest
- Pandora-Gilboa HS crowns Homecoming King and Queen
- Bluffton Council recap: Purchase of Marsh Run acres approved
- Senior Center's October membership dinner
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
- Pirate volleyball sweeps Wapakoneta
- Pirate boys golf 4th at NWC tourney; Meyer places 2nd
- Pirate girls soccer shuts out Lima Central Catholic
- Pirate boys soccer shuts out Lima Central Catholic
- Pirate girls tennis blanks Kenton
- Bluffton Fall Festival overflows with family fun
- Stauber exhibit at Massillon Museum through November 1
- Arlington invites generations of alumni to all-school Homecoming
Monday, September 28, 2026
- Beavers sports roundup, September 21-27
- Alan K. Yoder, O.D., 86, owned Family Eye Care Clinic of Bluffton
- I-75 lane restrictions in Hancock County, Sept. 28-Oct. 2
- Travis Michael Swank, 40, was a salesman
- NetVUE panel highlights chaplaincy, vocation and meaningful work
- Bluffton Presbyterian hosts community-wide Socktober drive