Spring is here and the Western Wildlife Corridor is full of new growth. The forests are covered in a carpet of wildflowers, the trees are blooming, and the wooded hillsides are a vivid shade of “spring green”. The rabbits, foxes, skunks, groundhogs, and other animals have emerged with the longer, brighter, and warmer days. The beetles, ants, and other insects are also back. The Bluebirds, Robins, Warblers, and migratory birds have returned as well. The Ohio River Valley is a truly unique, beautiful, and special place in Springtime.
As the weather gets warmer, visitors have also returned to the Corridor to enjoy being outdoors again. John Muir once said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than they seek.” During this time of year, as we walk through nature, we are reminded about the cycle of life, renewal, and regrowth that occurs every Spring. Spring fills us with hope and aspirations for the year ahead.
In 2024 we are focused on growing too. This winter, we welcomed new board members, and elected officers, and had a strategic planning retreat. We signed a new agreement with Delhi Township and grew relationships with local charitable giving organizations. Our volunteer efforts also grew and we hope to set a new record for the number of volunteer hours this year. Finally, we plan to expand the amount of land we protect by 10%, which is an increase of over 40 acres!
Today, nearly 400 acres of forest along the Ohio Valley are now permanently protected and the hundreds of plants and animals that call the Corridor home will always have a place to live, grow, and thrive. However, habitat destruction is still the leading cause of plant and animal extinctions. Our native forests are being cleared for new houses, roadways, and other development. Once the forests are gone, it is challenging to get them back because invasive plant species like the dreaded Honeysuckle will quickly colonize disturbed areas.
Right now, there is a unique opportunity to create three new forested preserves: The Muddy Creek Preserve, Riverside Community Preserve, and Saylor Park Sisson Preserve. Protecting and restoring these areas is one step closer to realizing the vision of a wildlife corridor stretching along the Ohio River from the Mill Creek to the Great Miami River. Spring fills us with hope for the year ahead and thanks to our leaders, volunteers, and supporters we are confident that together we will continue to grow.