COLUMBUS, OH -- Caesar Creek Gorge in Warren County is one of the state's most geologically significant and florally diverse state nature preserves. Here, shale and limestone walls rise 180 feet above the creek in a glacial-carved gorge surrounded by beautiful wildflowers. The splendor of its biodiversity remains today thanks in part to donations made to Ohio's Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off Fund.
For several years, check-off funds have enabled the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to protect Caesar Creek Gorge State Nature Preserve from the highly invasive bush honeysuckle. This non-native plant, if left unchecked, spreads rapidly, overtaking and out-competing native plants for space, according to the ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves.
"The check-off program gives Ohioans an opportunity to support ODNR's nature preserves, scenic rivers and endangered species programs by contributing a portion of their state income tax refund," said Sam Speck, ODNR director. "Our state nature preserves rely on the generosity of Ohioans to support important improvements that might not otherwise be possible."
Controlling bush honeysuckle and other invasive plants at Caesar Creek Gorge allows the preserve's beautiful flora to flourish and enchant those who hike along the Caesar's Trace trail system. In spring, notable plants such as sweet Indian-plantain, shooting star and large summer bluet dot the landscape, as well as more common spring wildflowers, including trillium and trout lily.
Last year, nearly $6,000 in check-off dollars supported a seasonal crew to tackle the challenges of invasive plant management at Caesar Creek Gorge. Check-off donations also supported new informational signs and trail markers throughout the preserve.
Hillsides of beech, maple, hickory and oak trees add to the gorge's wide-ranging habitat. Limestone outcroppings lining the gorge are home to a rich collection of fossils, including Ohio's official state fossil, the trilobite. Adjacent to the 483-acre preserve is access to the Little Miami Scenic River and the Corwin M. Nixon covered bridge.
Caesar Creek Gorge State Nature Preserve is located three miles north of Oregonia in Warren County and is accessible from Interstate 71 by taking State Route 73 west to Corwin Road south.
The ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves oversees 127 state nature preserves and 20 state scenic river segments across Ohio. For additional information about Caesar Creek Gorge or the Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off program, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com .