Improvements Continue to Strengthen Big Darby

New preserve area focused on improving quality of area habitat

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The Nature Conservancy Ohio Chapter celebrated a major milestone in 2008, officially opening the Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve in April. In addition, it purchased two parcels of land, adding 250 acres to the 811-acre Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve design. The preserve was developed on land in Logan County, west of State Route 33, as part of the Big Darby Headwaters Restoration Project, an effort to restore a half-mile of stream and adjacent wetlands along the Big Darby Creek.

To ensure all nature lovers could access the project, the preserve features a handicap-accessible trail and deck with interpretive signage showcasing the importance of the headwaters to people and wildlife.

“At the Joseph Glenn Ebersole Stream Restoration Site, located within the preserve, the Conservancy is moving forward on the restoration phase of the project with major work to occur in 2009,” explained Jules Lapp, gifts manager for The Nature Conservancy Ohio Chapter. “We also continue to improve the quality of habitat through invasive species removal supported by our dedicated volunteers.”

The Big Darby Headwaters Restoration Project received a $30,000 grant from The Columbus Foundation in 2007 and was featured in the Foundation’s Fall 2007 A Call to Action publication. As a result, Foundation donors contributed $7,900 to support the ongoing effort. 

According to the Conservancy, the headwater streams, floodplains, forests, and wetlands in the surrounding areas are important not only for their influence on water quality and hydrology in the Big Darby, but also because they provide important habitat for plants and animals.