A "Green Ribbon" of Landowners Protect Water Quality for Us All
Swanton, OH- Through their Green Ribbon Land Stewards Program, the Nature Conservancy is encouraging landowners in or near the Oak Openings Region of Northwest Ohio to protect and restore the natural areas of their property. These individual backyards and vacant parcels add up to important acres for protecting water quality in the Maumee River and Lake Erie.
Homeowners, schools, and businesses that own land are all eligible to participate in the program which is free of charge. Participants can have a naturalist come out to their site and provide customized management recommendations. They also receive a sign to post on their property, media opportunities, and other educational resources.
Businesses like Johnson Controls and BASF are participating by installing demonstration gardens and setting aside areas for wildlife. In total, nearly 900 acres of land in the Oak Openings Region is being protected by businesses, homeowners, camps and other organizations. "We like to know which landowners are working to protect and restore their property so we can recognize their efforts and provide them with resources to help." says Kelli Paige, Outreach Coordinator for The Nature Conservancy's Oak Openings Project Office. "These homeowners and businesses combined make up a valuable network of properties that provide a big benefit to our community."
The Oak Openings Region is not only significant because of the unique plants and animals that are found here. It also makes up a large portion of the area that drains into Swan Creek, a tributary of the Maumee River. "When private landowners protect the natural areas of their property, they are also conserving ‘green space' that is critical for water management." Paige said. These open, natural areas are valuable because they absorb rainfall better than traditional turf grass and filter pollutants from stormwater run-off. They help prevent flooding and protect the water quality of Swan Creek which has a downstream benefit for the Maumee River and Lake Erie as well.
For more information on how you participate in the Green Ribbon Land Stewards Program contact Kelli Paige at 419-867-1521 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
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