When we read about the hundreds of thousands of acres of open space lost to development each year, how can we not sometimes wonder if our legacy to our grandchildren is going to be a paved-over earth with no room for fireflies, whip-poor-wills or woodlands to enjoy. The threat is so huge it seems as though any action an individual can take would be inadequate to stem the tide.
However, on November 4, Ohioans have an opportunity to vote to continue a program that in the last 5 years has provided permanent protection for 26,000 acres of natural areas, created 216 miles of recreational trails, protected 20,000 acres of prime farmland and cleaned up 173 abandoned and polluted industrial sites.
Sound like something that only happens in more populated areas in the state? After four rounds of grants, a project in
Friends of Lower Muskingum River were successful in applying for the Drayer Addition to Kroger Wetland which has been passed on to the City of Marietta, a 75-acre biological station owned by FLMR but managed by Marietta College, the Devol Run Preserve, Dana Island Preserve all in Washington County and the Luke Chute Preserve in Morgan County - all now permanently protected. Without the Clean Ohio tool, it is unlikely these lands would have been available, not only to enhance our quality of life, but also for protection of wildlife habitat and water quality.
No tax increase is involved since the program is funded by bonds.
A vote for Issue 2 is worthy of your consideration. Renewal of the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund will allow this successful program to continue. Please share the information with friends and neighbors.
- Marilyn Ortt
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