Local state representative supports restoration of McGuffey Wildlife Preserve

CANFIELD, Ohio (WKBN) – Tex Fischer, the 58th House District State Representative, is requesting that Mill Creek MetroParks accept a redevelopment plan for the McGuffey Wildlife Preserve and the McGuffey Family Pond and Dock in Coitsville.

Fischer sent a letter Tuesday to Lee Frey, the Mill Creek MetroParks president, urging him to consider the redevelopment plan commissioned by the William Holmes McGuffey Historical Society.

Next Nature submitted the plan to Mill Creek MetroParks on June 10.

In the letter, Fischer said he’s heard concerns about the area from the community.

“I was disappointed to hear concerns from community members that routine maintenance was not being performed on the pond or dock, which has led to the pond turning into a wetland and the dock being removed for safety reasons,” he said.

Fischer said he understands that resources are limited but residents are still paying the park levy while unable to use the facility.

According to the letter, the wildlife preserve includes 73 acres of woods, trails, a historical marker, the McGuffey family well and other unique geological features.

Fischer said he would even help facilitate the project if needed.

My office would be happy to provide any assistance necessary should the MetroParks decide to apply for an Ohio Environmental Protection permit to partially excavate the McGuffey Wetland and move forward with this restoration so we can once again provide a functioning pond and dock for both taxpayers and wildlife to utilize.

Next Nature’s restoration proposal says the site has historical significance and ecological value.

The Mill Creek McGuffey Wildlife Preserve, formerly the William Holmes McGuffey Boyhood Home Site, was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1966 by the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, according to the proposal.

Their plan includes restoring the site and enhancing it with a boardwalk and educational signage
to inform visitors about the habitat.

Mahoning County Commissioners also support the wetland restoration project and sent a letter of support to the Mill Creek Park Board last month.

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