There is a new Nature Preserve in Sayler Park called the Sisson Nature Preserve, named after Tim Sisson and his family! Tim, as most of you know has been the driving force behind the Western Wildlife Corridor for many years. He was our President for many years and remains very active in land acquisition and restoration! Why, he even recruited two of his sisters: Sally Anderson, who is our Resident Artist and Rebecca Sisson, a former Board Member. Tim’s parents, Ray and Peggy donated land to us many years ago, which became the Turkey Haven Nature Preserve in Addyston. The example they set really motivated Tim to become involved in Western Wildlife Corridor.
Tim grew up riding his horse Dynamite along the wooded hillsides that are now part of Turkey Haven and Kirby Nature Preserves. Tim’s background as a Mechanical Engineer steered him towards a hobby of restoring cars in his younger years. Restoring things has always been in his blood. As time passed, he became even more passionate about restoring natural areas. The local wooded hillsides overlooking the Ohio River have become his focus. There are many, many people who Tim has inspired with his dedication to land preservation and habitat restoration. I know, because I’m one of them!
This new 19 acre preserve, formerly known as the Pessler Farm was recently purchased thanks to generously donated funds from many of our members. An adjoining 4.3 acres is being purchased in the spring of 2025 with a grant from the Clean Ohio Fund for a total of 23.3 acres! The new Preserve is located near the intersection of Monitor and Hillside Avenues in Sayler Park. It can be seen from the Sayler Park Elementary School, the Community Swimming Pool and adjoining Ballfields and the newly developed Winding Walks of Sayler Park.
Having lived just a block away for 35 years, I’ve always admired this wooded hillside and hoped that someday it would be preserved. Thanks to Tim and others at Western Wildlife Corridor, that day is finally here!
