ASHLAND — On Monday, December 16, the Ashland County Commissioners transferred land to the Ashland County Park District (ACPD), allowing the property to be preserved and protected for public park use perpetually.
This 120-acre tract of of land, located at the intersection of State Route 60 and County Road 1754 in Montgomery Township was acquired through a State of Ohio’s Clean Ohio grant, where the Commissioners had received approximately $660,000 to fund its transfer.
Approximately 80 acres consists of gently rolling meadows, a wooded ravine and a pond. This will become a new park. The other 40 acres — located across County Road 1754 — directly adjoin Byers Woods and will become part of that existing park.
“The property will be managed to preserve woodlands, open space and native flora and fauna. This park will provide public access for fishing, hiking, bird watching, nature study and more,” said ACPD park director, Stephanie Featheringill.
She added that the land is “ideally located near the heart of Ashland County just six miles southeast of the city of Ashland.”
Residents will continue to enjoy scenic views of the property and the aesthetic benefits that this natural area brings to the community. Visitors are able to enjoy views of the scenic woodlands, pond, farm fields and creek that flow through the site.
According to Park Commissioner Dave McClure, the ACPD plans to enhance the pond, add a handicap accessible fishing pier, include trails and construct a parking lot near an existing gazebo. Adding mountain bike trail is also a possibly that might be explored.
“The Ashland County Park District is proud of the partnership they’ve forged with the Ashland County Commissioners and that they can continue to keep its promises to the great citizens of Ashland County,” McClure said.
Park Commissioner Robert DeSanto chimed in, too.
“We promised Ashland County residence that we would preserve our pristine wildlife areas and protect tax payers and this transfer is a prime example of this commitment,” DeSanto said. “We saved a beautiful tract of land, added hundreds of thousands of dollars to the county coffers, and used state grants for purchase. This is a great day for Ashland County and our conservation efforts.”
