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ODNR celebrates 50 years of the Maumee Scenic River

By
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Press Release

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and Metroparks Toledo recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Maumee River’s state scenic and recreational designation with a special event for river enthusiasts.

“Today, we’re not just celebrating the anniversary of the scenic river designation of the Maumee River, but also the foresight of the communities and agencies who supported the designation and have served as caretakers for this magnificent river for 50 years,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “The high quality of the river has been maintained and not only provides habitat for native flora and fauna, it also enhances the quality of life in northwest Ohio.”

ODNR and Metroparks Toledo offered a wide range of in- and out-of-the water activities such as guided hikes, streamside demonstrations, talks about aquatic critters, hands-on activities, paddling safety, chats with local native nursery vendors, live music, and the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s mobile kitchen. Attendees were able to discuss the benefits of a healthy river with ODNR experts and other local conservation organizations.

“The Maumee River is part of our history and our future, both as a community and a park system,” said Dave Zenk, executive director of Metroparks Toledo. “Our first park, Side Cut, and our newest park, Glass City, are among the seven Metroparks on the river totaling 924 acres and 11.4 miles of shoreline. The State Scenic River designation has helped highlight the natural and historical significance of this tremendous resource here in northwest Ohio.”

The Maumee River is an important historical and cultural asset in northwest Ohio. The river’s watershed is more than 5,000 square miles and drains some of the richest farmland.

The original 1974 “scenic” designation includes 43 miles of the Maumee River from the Ohio-Indiana state line to the U.S. Route 24 bridge, west of Defiance. The scenic river section is characterized by a broad meandering floodplain. Valley walls rise sharply in comparison to the surrounding terrain. Its stream banks support a healthy, forested corridor.

An additional 53 miles, running from the U.S. Route 24 bridge west of Defiance to the U.S. Route 20/S.R. 25 bridge at Perrysburg and Maumee, was designated as “recreational.” This portion of the river changes as the floodplain further widens and its channel doubles in size and the forest cover along the bank becomes thinner. This section of the river was also designated for some of the historical features present within the river corridor.

Learn more about the Maumee State Scenic River at ohiodnr.gov.  

The Division of Natural Areas and Preserves is dedicated to preserving and protecting Ohio’s unique natural heritage and restoring the finest land and water resources in the state by managing a system of 147 state nature preserves and 15 scenic rivers. To learn more, visit naturalareas.ohiodnr.gov.

In 2024, join ODNR in celebrating 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.

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

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