H2Ohio clean water project completed at Little Portage Wildlife Area in Ottawa County

A new wetland restoration project has been completed at Little Portage Wildlife Area in Ottawa County near Port Clinton.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources project is meant to improve water quality while benefitting surrounding communities and revitalizing the area’s ecosystem, according to a news release.

Farmland drainage redirected to filter through wetlands

The restoration project replaced subsurface field tile drainage to redirect water from more than 400 acres of farmland to the wildlife area wetlands for filtration before flowing into the Little Portage River.

"This wetland restoration will continue to protect and preserve both the Little Portage River and the Little Portage Wildlife Area,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in a prepared statement. “Taking these steps is necessary to help ensure that Ohio’s waterways are free from excess nutrient runoff that causes water quality issues and protect our many beautiful natural areas for future generations.”

The project is part of the DeWine administration’s H2Ohio initiative to address serious water issues in the state.

Project aims to improve Lake Erie water quality

This project is designed to improve the overall water quality of Lake Erie as well. The Little Portage River flows directly into the lake; the wetlands will filter any excess sediments, nutrients or pollutants that can contribute to harmful algal blooms.

“If the water quality is improved for the Little Portage River, it will only make Lake Erie a safer water source for both Ohioans and the ecosystems surrounding it," ODNR Director Mary Mertz said.

The Little Portage project is one of more than 100 H2Ohio that have been completed. There are approximately 80 additional projects underway.

Ottawa County has most eagle nests in Ohio

Wetlands mean more habitat for wetland-dependent wildlife like waterfowl, wading birds, reptiles and amphibians. Bald eagles thrive in the area around Little Portage. Ottawa County has the most eagle nests in Ohio , and this H2Ohio project will enhance their habitat.

Little Portage Wildlife Area encompasses 357 acres and lies 6 miles west of Port Clinton. It is bounded on the west by the Little Portage River and on the north by the Portage River. The area boasts a diverse and delicate ecosystem, primarily river marsh, and is popular among waterfowl hunters.

This article originally appeared on Port Clinton News Herald: H2Ohio clean water project completed at Little Portage Wildlife Area in Ottawa County