COLUMBUS, OH -- Wildflowers abound, trees beckon and a medley of bird life, reptiles and amphibians can be found at the biologically diverse Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve in northeastern Ohio. The beauty of this Portage County nature preserve has become more accessible in recent years through projects funded by donations to Ohio's Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off Fund, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
A pedestrian bridge and observation tower at the preserve, as well as trail improvements and parking lot upgrades all were made possible thanks to those Ohioans supporting the check-off fund. Future planned improvements at Eagle Creek include boardwalks, bridges and additional observation decks.
"The check-off program provides Ohioans with 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."
In 2001, check-off dollars allowed the ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves to purchase 32 acres adjacent to the preserve, bringing its total acreage to 480. The uniqueness of Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve can be seen in the diversity of its plant and animal communities, as well as its varied terrain of drier climates and wetlands.
The preserve's tree-covered slopes feature beech, maple and white oak. Its wildflowers and plant life are among the most abundant and beautiful in the state and include more than 20 species of fern, such as the maidenhair, interrupted, ostrich and royal.
North America's largest rodent, the beaver, is an industrious worker at Eagle Creek, creating many of the area's wetlands. Beaver dams and lodges can easily be seen from several points at this ecologically important habitat. Other wildlife, including white-tailed deer, fox, raccoon, opossum and skunk, often can be spotted while wandering the preserve's meandering trail system. Visitors also will be treated to the sounds of herons, hawks, owls and songbirds that call the preserve home.
Eagle Creek State Natural Preserve is located about 13 miles northeast of Ravenna. From Center Road, proceed one mile south on Hopkins Road.
The ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves oversees 127 state nature preserves and 20 state scenic river segments throughout Ohio. For additional information about Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve or the Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off program, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com