Scioto Bend Preserve

AOA’s 309-acre Scioto Bend Preserve is located on a large bend in the Scioto River adjacent to the City of Circleville in Pickaway County. The property includes 2.62 miles of Scioto River mainstem frontage and a large island. This property is a part of AOA’s Scioto River Flyway Corridor initiative.   Thousands of waterfowl typically use this flyway corridor during the early spring and fall migration periods. 

The Preserve lies almost entirely within the Scioto River floodplain.  However,  an old levee extends the length of the property and separates the river from its floodplain.  Decades of impairments to the property from clearcutting, row cropping, cattle grazing, wetland drainage and other development have diminished the natural function of the floodplain and eliminated wetlands. Floodplain restoration and new wetlands will greatly enhance the wildlife habitat available for migrating waterfowl, songbirds, bats and other species that utilize the Scioto River Flyway Corridor.

AOA worked with Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. to plan and design a series of projects that would reconnect the natural floodplain to the Scioto River and restore wetlands and natural habitats on the Preserve.  Phase one of this project included constructing a large breach in the levee. This breach allows the property to flood several times a year.  Artificial earthen beaver dams and vernal pools were constructed to increase wetland areas and help retain floodwater. This floodwater retention improves natural filtration and removes nonpoint pollutants.  Woody debris were placed in the pond and restored wetlands to create habitat and structure.  Additional Phases of the project are pending and await funding. 

Stewardship.  AOA’s stewardship team has worked extensively on the Preserve to remove large debris, trash piles and cattle fencing.  Reed canary grass, poison hemlock, and tree of heaven invasive species are being treated and removed.   Proposed wetland and prairie areas are being revegetated with native species including a wetland seed blend. Beavers, mink, muskrats and bald eagles have been observed on the Preserve.