Maumee island project benefits from H2Ohio

Columbus — As part of Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio Initiative, the Ohio DNR (ODNR) recently participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other local officials to celebrate the completion of the Clark Island and Delaware/Horseshoe Island restoration projects.

The restored islands are intended to reduce the amount of sediment and nutrients that would otherwise flow further downstream in the Maumee River and ultimately Lake Erie. This reduction is a key pillar of Gov. DeWine’s H2Ohio Initiative which uses various strategies to improve water quality, according to the Ohio DNR.

“Partnership is the cornerstone of H2Ohio, and this project is a perfect example of that,” said DeWine. “We all understand the importance of protecting Lake Erie, particularly right here in Toledo on the Maumee River. Through H2Ohio, we will continue to prioritize projects like this that we know will have a direct impact on improving our water.”

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Clark and Delaware/Horseshoe Islands have been deteriorating due to erosion along their banks. H2Ohio invested more than $8.7 million to rebuild these islands. By installing rock and natural structures around and within the islands’ original footprints, the project created ideal conditions for sediment capture as water flows up the Maumee River and through the island.

“ODNR’s role in H2Ohio is to use the state’s natural infrastructure to clean water before it enters into our critical watersheds,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “Whether we’re restoring wetlands or rebuilding islands, these projects are not only improving the health of Ohio’s water, they’re also creating beautiful natural spaces to be enjoyed by all.”

ODNR worked with the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority for the island restoration projects. This has been an effective partnership to oversee the work contracted with consultants and construction firms, according to the Ohio DNR. Local partners, like the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, have been a crucial factor to keeping H2Ohio projects moving forward.

“The restoration of Clark and Delaware/Horseshoe Islands highlights how strong partnerships can achieve lasting impact,” said Thomas J. Winston, president and CEO of the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority. “By investing in natural infrastructure, we are not only restoring critical habitat and improving water quality but also creating benefits that reach far beyond the water’s edge – strengthening our environment, supporting our community, and securing a healthier future for generations to come.”

“Thanks to the dedication of our federal, state, and local partners, we celebrate the largest habitat restoration ever on the Maumee River,” Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz said. “This project protects the health of our city’s most precious asset – the river – while enhancing recreational opportunities for Toledo residents and visitors alike.”

The funding from H2Ohio includes the project’s engineering and design work and restoration of Clark Island and the downstream portion of Delaware/Horseshoe Island.

Along with improving water quality, the restored islands will have the added benefit of reducing wave strength through this portion of the Maumee, resulting in reduced erosion along the riverbank, a more resilient habitat for fish and wildlife, and enhanced outdoor recreational opportunities.