|
 |
|
|
|
Current Projects
• MILL CREEK PRESERVE: The 303-acre Mill Creek Preserve has “grown” on many levels over the past year. First, an extensive 48-acre wetland restoration and enhancement project was designed in early 2009. The scope of the project focused on the reestablishment of the wetland communities that existed on the site prior to agricultural practices. Earthwork for ponds of varying depth and size, microtopography, berms and trails started in June after numerous surveys, reports, public meetings and site visits were conducted. Planting of diverse, native vegetation to create prairie and wet prairie areas, emergent, sedge meadow and scrub shrub areas, as well as open water and existing wetland enhancement areas, was conducted in late fall. These wetlands now establish additional, natural habitat for flora and fauna, filter stormwater, recharge groundwater supplies, and provide another exciting facility for visitors of the MetroParks to enjoy. The “constructed” wetlands also serve as a buffer to the existing 102-acre Category 3 (highest quality) wetland complex sprawling across the Mill Creek Preserve.
Efforts to expand protection and preservation of adjacent natural areas have also commenced around the Preserve. Several grant sources have been identified and obtained for land protection, and projects to preserve these sensitive areas are progressing. The acquisition, preservation and restoration of the Mill Creek Preserve through grant funding fulfill the MetroParks objectives to protect our region’s natural resources and to be fiscally responsible.
All restoration improvements have been 100% funded through the Ohio EPA’s Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program grant. Grant funding has accounted for over 90% of acquisition costs, with local, private foundations providing the remainder.
• PIONEER PAVILION: Pioneer Pavilion is undergoing a multi-year renovation to the interior and exterior of the structure. Improvements completed in 2006-2007 include: installation of a new sanitary sewer pump station and sewer line, replacement of natural gas supply line, interior electrical improvements, installation of fire detection system, replacement of 3 heater units, extensive kitchen renovations, refinishing of dining room floor, installation of natural gas log units in fireplaces, and new tables, chairs and appliances.
In 2008, the exterior stone staircase was extensively reconstructed. The staircase had deteriorated over its 115-year life and had become unavailable for regular use. The reconstruction project was accomplished using historically sensitive methods and materials. The stone staircase is used for access to the second floor ballroom and is also a popular location for wedding photographs.
Renovations in 2009 included: refinishing of ballroom floor and interior steps, replacement of two door panels with historically matched frosted and beveled glass, painting of restroom floors.
All renovations have been funded by the MetroParks.
• YELLOW CREEK LODGE: An extensive renovation report for Yellow Creek Lodge was completed by Ronald Cornell Faniro Architects in 2007. The report assessed the entire lodge structure including equipment and furnishings. The report also examined the former Yellow Creek Park Office and recommended the construction of a new office structure. The new office was constructed in 2008 as an addition to the lodge.
Lodge renovations that have been accomplished included: extensive kitchen renovations, new kitchen appliances, construction of table/chair storage closet, replacement of flooring in kitchen and lobby with new tile, repainting of interior walls and ceilings, electrical improvements, fireplace improvements, reconstruction of upper exterior chimney, and new serving tables in meeting room.
All renovations have been funded by the MetroParks.
• MILL CREEK WILDLIFE SANCTUARY: In addition to ongoing efforts to restore native habitats to the Sanctuary, this former fish farm has been undergoing extensive infrastructure repairs. Three degraded pond drain structures were replaced with stop-log drains in 2008 and 2009, with more planned for 2010. The new drains allow for safer and more accurate manipulation of the water levels within the ponds to maintain the Sanctuary as an important feeding and resting point for migratory shorebirds and other wildlife.
All work has been funded by the MetroParks.
• MASTER PLANS:
View the Wick Recreation Area Master Plan
View the Fellows Riverside Gardens Master Plan
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Creek MetroParks / P.O. Box 596 / Canfield, OH 44406 / generalinfo@MillCreekMetroParks.org / phone: 330.702.3000
Copyright 2009 Mill Creek MetroParks.
All Rights Reserved.
Powered by CBOSS ArchITech CMS
Login |