The Ohio Wetlands Association (OWA) continues to make strides in wetland conservation, community engagement, and educational initiatives. The Summer 2024 newsletter highlights recent events, educational programs, and scientific updates, emphasizing the need to protect Ohio’s natural wetland ecosystems. Here’s a look at the latest developments.

Vernal Poolooza 2024: A Celebration of Wetland Biodiversity
Held at Camp Oty’Okwa in Hocking Hills, Vernal Poolooza 2024 brought together enthusiasts, scientists, and community members for three days of hands-on learning and exploration. Attendees enjoyed presentations from experts, field excursions, and nighttime vernal pool explorations, with the sounds of spring peepers and wood frogs filling the air. Frog Watch USA and Butterfly Ridge, led by Carrie Bassett, Michael Phillips, and Christopher Kline, educated participants on the importance of amphibians and pollinators to wetland health and engaged attendees in citizen science opportunities. The event successfully built connections and inspired further wetland conservation efforts.

Outdoor Learning Retreat with Black Swamp Conservancy
This summer, the Black Swamp Conservancy hosted a retreat for K-12 educators at The Homestead. Led by Laura Rodriguez and supported by grants from the Ohio EPA and Bill Rowles Youth Foundation Fund, the retreat focused on outdoor learning strategies, group management, and wetland exploration. Educators participated in sessions such as Birding Basics and Nature Journaling, receiving backpacks with resources to implement outdoor lessons. The retreat established a network of educators dedicated to enriching students’ understanding of wetlands and conservation through hands-on learning experiences.

Annual Fall Wetland Hike and Membership Gathering
Mark your calendars for November 9th! OWA will host an annual gathering and wetland hike at Glacier Ridge Metro Park. This event will include a “Year in Review” business meeting, refreshments, and an exploration of the park’s wetlands, guided by knowledgeable staff who will discuss conservation projects and provide an interactive virtual tour. This event is a fantastic opportunity for members to network, reflect on the year’s achievements, and enjoy Ohio’s wetlands.

Book Review: Wetlands of the American Midwest by Hugh Prince
In a review by Mark Dilley, Wetlands of the American Midwest is lauded for its detailed account of the historical decline of Midwest wetlands due to European settlement, railroad expansion, and agricultural development. Prince’s work delves into policies and attitudes that led to a 90% loss of Ohio’s wetlands, while concluding with a hopeful chapter on shifting public perceptions and conservation efforts. Dilley highlights the book’s educational value for readers interested in wetland history and restoration and envisions a future where wetland recovery becomes a celebrated milestone.

H2Ohio Update: A Statewide Effort in Wetland Restoration
Since its launch in 2019, Ohio’s H2Ohio initiative has completed 72 projects and restored over 16,000 acres of wetlands. With ongoing support from nonprofits and conservation professionals, these wetlands annually reduce 798,000 pounds of nitrogen and 159,000 pounds of phosphorus. The Lake Erie and Aquatic Research Network (LEARN) is actively assessing nutrient removal effectiveness, providing vital data for future wetland improvements. This initiative represents a historic commitment to enhancing Ohio’s water quality and preserving its wetland ecosystems for generations to come.

Nutrient Surveys of Central Ohio Vernal Pools
Lauren Lynch, a researcher from Miami University, conducted nutrient surveys in central Ohio’s vernal pools to understand the impact of agricultural runoff on amphibian habitats. Results showed minimal levels of harmful nutrients like phosphates and nitrates, suggesting that local vernal pools remain healthy despite proximity to agricultural fields. The study emphasizes the importance of protecting vernal pools, which provide crucial breeding habitats for amphibians and are highly sensitive to water quality changes due to their permeability.

Each story from OWA’s Summer 2024 newsletter underscores the importance of wetlands to Ohio’s environment, economy, and community well-being. To get involved or learn more, visit www.OHwetlands.org.