Warren County, Ohio (WKRC) – The construction is to start in a Warren County Park in the Simpson Creek Headwater Restoration Project.
The initiative aims to convert the aging, artificial pond in the Landen-Deerfield Park in Deerfield Township near Maineville, into a natural stream and a wetland, the water quality, the reduction of flood risks and the improvement of habitats for native wild animals.
The restoration is part of the efforts to strengthen the health of the Little Miami River water sheath and to improve the park experience for visitors. The plans include new hiking trails, a natural play area, educational signs and half a hectare fish pond.
The most important advantages of the project include cleaner water and healthier habitats, since power and wetland systems are more effective filter and support a larger biological diversity than artificial ponds. Visitors also enjoy extended hiking trails, nature games and a newly designed fishing pond. The project is expected to reduce the maintenance costs and reduce the downstream flood risks by managing the rainwater in a naturally manner. In addition, the restored area supports educational trips, volunteer programs and practical environmental learning.
The Park District offers a temporary fishing option at the existing pond until the construction begins. No license or registration is required. The remaining fish that are after the start of the construction does not survive the transition, a necessary step to create a more sustainable habitat. It is expected that turtles and other mobile wildlife are expected when the conditions change.
During the construction work, the crews will drain the pond, move the floor and plant a local vegetation that can temporarily cause noise and unpleasant smells. These are normal and short-term aspects of a wetland restoration project. The Landen-Deerfield Park remains open during the entire construction system, whereby temporarily dealing with the construction area. Park guests are asked to stay outside the fence from security.
“While we realize that the construction can be impractical at short notice, the long -term advantages for the park and the environment will be significant,” said Matt Latham, CEO of the Warren County Park District. “We appreciate your patience when we complete these important restoration efforts.”
The project is financed by grants from the H2OHIO initiative and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). A larger construction is expected to complete at the end of 2025, with local plantings and habitat stabilization continued by 2026.