“Wetlands act like sponges, especially areas like vernal pools,” said Cadence Richard, a seasonal naturalist with JAMPD. “If you think of swamps and other very boggy type areas, the mud and soil within those areas can help trap pollution and stop it in its tracks before it continues on down to whatever river or stream they might feed into.”
Heritage Elementary students are learning what it takes to save the world today thanks to Johnny Appleseed Metro Parks. 4th graders at Heritage were visited by park workers and volunteers to take part in an escape room-style activity. The program aims to teach the students about the ecosystems native to our area and Ohio-- with what it takes for the food chain to survive. There were puzzles and clues for the students to follow that corresponded to a specific plant or animal.
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.
