H2Ohio Wetland Announced in Lorain County

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is planning construction on Martin’s Run Wetland and Stream Restoration in Lorain County as part of Governor Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio initiative.

“We are proud of the progress H2Ohio continues to make to improve Ohio’s waters,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “The Martin’s Run project is another important step in our commitment to protecting Lake Erie, the fish and wildlife that live there, and the millions of people who rely on the lake for drinking water.”

H2Ohio has partnered with the City of Lorain to restore and enhance 16 acres of wetland and 1,000 linear feet of severely eroding stream channel.  The project site, which is currently farmland, is just 3 miles southeast of Lake Erie.  Martin’s Run, which flows directly into the lake, will be reconnected to frequently flooded fields. The connection will treat stormwater to reduce sediment and nutrient pollutants before the water flows into Lake Erie.

“The City of Lorain is thrilled to have been chosen as a recipient of this critical funding,” City of Lorain Mayor, Jack Bradley said.  “As a lakefront community, the City is committed to projects that improve water quality within Lake Erie and its tributaries. We look forward to working with ODNR on this project and are excited for the outcomes.”

Construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2021.  In total, approximately $1.4 million in H2Ohio funding is expected to be dedicated to the project.  So far, assessment, design, and permitting have been partially funded through ODNR’s Coastal Management Grants.

The project joins dozens of other H2Ohio wetland projects underway right now including the the Brooks Park Wetland Creation and Water Quality Initiative at Buckeye Lake in Fairfield County, the Oakwoods Nature Preserve East and Oakwoods Nature Preserve West in Hancock County, Redhorse Bend Preserve in Sandusky County, the Forder Bridge Project in Paulding County, the Fruth Wetland Nature Preserve in Seneca County, the St. Joseph Confluence Reconnection in Williams County, the Van Order Wetland and Forest Restoration in Henry County, the wetland area east of the Andreoff Wildlife Area in Wyandot County, and Sandusky Headwaters Preserve in Crawford County.

H2Ohio is Governor Mike DeWine’s comprehensive, data-driven approach to improving water quality over the long term.  H2Ohio focuses on encouraging agricultural best management practices, restoring, and enhancing wetlands, and improving drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.