- Water: The Maumee River, which flows through Toledo, provided a source of water for drinking, transportation, and industry. The city also has access to Lake Erie, which is the fourth-largest lake in North America.
- Forests: The area around Toledo was once covered in forests, which provided timber for building and other purposes.
- Minerals: The Toledo area is home to several mineral deposits, including limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. These minerals were used in the production of cement, glass, and other products.
- Oil and gas: The Toledo area is also part of the Michigan Basin, which is a major source of oil and gas.