PLEASE BE SURE IF YOU TAKE SOMETHING, LEAVE SOMETHING. The Golden Rule of Geocaching. In May of 2014, the new and improved wetland was dedicated.THE HIGHLANDS PARK WETLAND HIGHLIGHTS THE CITY’S ROLE AS AN ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARD IN THE COMMUNITY AND THE IMPORTANCE OF A VIABLE AND FUNCTIONAL ECOSYSTEM RIGHT IN OUR VERY OWN BACK YARD.
The previous wetland habitat was classified as low-quality due to minimal wildlife habitat and water-quality deficiencies. Located within the Lower Alum Creek Watershed, the wetland feeds into Spring Run, an Alum Creek tributary. Due to the connectivity of area waterways and poor water conditions, the site was deemed a priority stream segment for restoration and protection efforts.
Redevelopment was incorporated into plans when the Highlands Park Master Plan was developed in 2009. Sustainable land features were developed as part of the Highlands Park Aquatic Center, including rain gardens, bio-swells and porous concrete. The City also identified grant opportunities to support the wetland enhancement project at Highlands Park and ultimately received a $130,000 grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to finance water-quality improvements and public outreach, which covered three-quarters of the cost of the wetland enhancement project.
The end result is an intentionally crafted ecosystem with a harmonious combination of wildlife, plant species and improved water mobility. A forebay introduces water to the site with passages designed to slow the speed of water flow, adding time for water sediment and debris to fall away before passing through Spring Run and into Alum Creek.
A NATURE PLAY AREA PROVIDES AREA CLASSROOMS AND WETLAND VISITORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO RECONNECT WITH NATURE, IMPROVING HEALTH, EDUCATION AND GENERAL WELL-BEING.
You are looking for a camoflaged lock-n-lock container, with swag and room for trackable. Please watch for muggles, and wait them out if necessary. REHIDE WELL, so it can't be seen at all. Happy Caching!