By 1812Blockhouse
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz have announced the allocation of over $7 million in grants to support 12 new H2Ohio wetland projects across the state. Among these projects is one in Richland County, marking a significant investment in local environmental protection and water quality improvement.
Local Money for Richland County
One of the 12 projects set to benefit from this funding is the Clear Fork Mohican River Wetland Restoration Project in Richland County, which has been awarded $351,500. This project, spearheaded by the Richland County Park District, focuses on restoring wetlands along the Clear Fork Mohican River to enhance water filtration, reduce sediment runoff, and improve the overall ecosystem in the region.
Wetlands play a crucial role in improving water quality, controlling flooding, and providing essential habitats for wildlife. This project is not only a victory for the environment but also for the residents of Richland County, who will see improved water quality and reduced flooding risks as a result of this restoration effort.
Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the importance of wetlands to Ohio’s water quality efforts, stating:
“Wetlands are a vital component of H2Ohio to improve water quality across our state. Every new wetland we create or restore continues to build on all the progress we’ve been making over the years through H2Ohio.”
What is H2Ohio?
Launched in 2019, H2Ohio is a statewide water quality initiative aimed at addressing complex issues affecting Ohio’s waters, such as algal blooms, pollution, and water infrastructure challenges. The program uses a science-driven approach to reduce nutrient runoff, particularly phosphorus, which contributes to harmful algal blooms in Ohio’s lakes and rivers. H2Ohio also focuses on conservation, promoting best farming practices, and restoring critical wetlands across the state.
The recent announcement of $7 million in grants will fund 12 new projects in 10 counties, including Athens, Butler, Clark, Delaware, Franklin, Greene, Holmes, Lake, Richland, and Summit. These projects were selected through a competitive grant process and will receive up to 100% funding for their costs.
ODNR Director Mary Mertz praised the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating:
“We are successful in these projects because of our partners and their dedication to improving water quality. In addition to filtering the water, these wetlands provide habitat, allowing animals and plants to continue to thrive in Ohio.”
Wetlands Making a Difference
Wetlands act as nature’s filtration system. They trap, filter, and remove excess nutrients—such as phosphorus—from water, helping to prevent pollutants from entering larger waterways. This is particularly important in Ohio, where nutrient runoff has caused serious problems in lakes and rivers, including the infamous algal blooms in Lake Erie.
By restoring or creating wetlands, H2Ohio helps to address these issues at the source. The program also works with local landowners, farmers, and organizations to implement solutions that will improve water quality long-term.
In Richland County, the Clear Fork Mohican River Wetland Restoration Project will enhance the local watershed by restoring degraded wetlands, which will, in turn, improve the water quality of the Clear Fork Mohican River. The project is expected to benefit not only the local ecosystem but also nearby communities that rely on the river for recreation and water resources.
Rainbow Run Wetland: A New Milestone
The announcement of the new wetland projects was made during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly restored H2Ohio Rainbow Run Wetland near Springfield. The Rainbow Run wetland is an example of the type of success H2Ohio aims to replicate across the state. This 8-acre project restored a former pasture and transformed it into a thriving wetland that filters water from the nearby Rainbow Run tributary, which flows into the Little Miami River, a National and State Scenic River.
The wetland, named after the tributary, improves water quality by filtering sediment and nutrients, reducing flooding, and providing a habitat for wildlife. The restoration was a collaborative effort between Tecumseh Land Trust and local landowners Tom and Susan Miller. Tecumseh Land Trust submitted the project for H2Ohio funding and was awarded due to its cost-effectiveness and anticipated environmental benefits.
Michele Burns, Executive Director of Tecumseh Land Trust, reflected on the importance of such projects:
“We are proud to be a part of water quality improvements in the Little Miami River watershed and beyond.”
The success of this project, like many others funded by H2Ohio, shows the positive impact of wetland restoration on Ohio’s environment and communities.
A Commitment to the Future
With over 183 H2Ohio wetland projects either completed or in progress, Ohio is making strides in addressing water quality issues throughout the state. From reducing nutrient runoff to providing critical wildlife habitats, these projects represent an ongoing commitment to improving Ohio’s natural resources.
As Governor DeWine stated, every new wetland restoration builds on the state’s efforts to ensure clean water for future generations. The Clear Fork Mohican River Wetland Restoration Project in Richland County is another example of local communities benefiting from these statewide initiatives.
For more information on H2Ohio and ongoing projects, visit h2.ohio.gov.
Image by Herbert Aust from Pixabay
