The Ohio Department of Natural Resources unveiled a newly completed wetland project in Allen County. Area residents and partners gathered to tour the Baughman Project, which spans 19 acres in the northern part of the county near the Allen Oakwood Prison. Over the last year, native vegetation was planted, basins were dug, and pipes were put in place to create 3 main wetlands areas. The hope is these additions will drastically reduce flooding, which has been negatively impacting the surrounding roads, neighborhoods, and property values for around 30 years.

July 11, 2024, Press Release from Casey Heilman, Allen Soil and Water Conservation District Administrator: Taking care of storm drains is not only important to reducing flooding but is also important to the health of the Ottawa River. The Allen Soil and Water Conservation District is urging you to “adopt” the storm drain in front of your home. Make it part of your weekly lawn maintenance to check your storm drain. By taking care of this drain, you can help reduce the amount of debris entering the Ottawa River.