At Salem Reservoir, Osprey can be found and in July 2009, a Forster’s Tern frequented the bait shop for several days. Sandhill Cranes and Blue-winged Teal have summered at Tritten’s Pond in the past. The last known Barn Owl location in Columbiana County is here, in an old unused barn which is also home each year to baby Turkey Vultures. They are raised each year in an old grain bin for about eight weeks and then fledge from the barn at about ten weeks.

Salem Reservoir (also known as Cold Run Reservoir) is Salem’s main water supply and also a source of recreation. Projects on the land are operated by the Parks and Recreation Department, under the supervision of the Utilities Department.

The area is located eight miles south of Salem and provides an outdoor recreation center for boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. It is open from mid-April until the last Sunday in September and is operated on a fee basis: charges are made for use of the lake and for fishing.