Ashland County Park District expands Avian Acres Farm Park by more than 45 acres

Avian Acres Farm Park in Perry Township has grown by more than 45 acres thanks to support from the Clean Ohio Green Space Conservation program and a local contribution.

Situated along the Jerome Fork of the Mohican River, the newly acquired land by the Ashland County Park District not only increases the park's size but also enhances its environmental significance. The addition includes over 100 linear feet of headwater stream protection and showcases freshwater forested/shrub wetlands along with two freshwater emergent wetlands.

The expansion bolsters habitat protection for various endangered, threatened and species of concern, including monarch butterflies, little brown bats, northern harriers, sandhill cranes and the recently de-listed trumpeter swans.

Plans for the site are ambitious, aiming to improve guest access and parking facilities at Avian Acres Farm Park. Additionally, enhancements to the trail network are planned, according to the Park District. Initiatives also are planned to restore and enrich the natural wetlands and promote pollinator and habitat diversity.

Avian Acres Farm Park was donated to the Park District in 2020. The park opened to the public in 2022 and now safeguards over 349 acres of greenspace. The park boasts the historic Taylor Barn, 80 acres of wetlands, natural surface trails, a fishing pond and an ongoing regenerative agriculture project initiated in 2023.

In recognition of its environmental stewardship and community engagement, Avian Acres Farm Park was a highlight of the Ashland County Farm Tour last year. The park also hosted Pheasants Forever’s A Day in the Uplands: Managing Private Lands for Pollinators and Wildlife workshop, which garnered significant success. Building on last year's achievements, Pheasants Forever is set to return with The Sequel at Avian Acres Farm Park on July 27.

For more information about Avian Acres Farm Park and upcoming events, visit www.ashlandcountyparks.com .

This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: Ashland County Park District expands Avian Acres Farm Park by more than 45 acres