Elaine Marsh of Ohio Greenways was the speaker at the meeting of West Creek Preservation Committee on July 20. Her presentation was titled: “Maximize the Ecological Community Benefits of Open Space Projects.”

Ms. Marsh pointed out the need to protect the green infrastructure. Green infrastructure is defined as an interconnected network of land and water that sustains our air and water resources, maintaining and enhancing natural ecological processes. Within the green infrastructure are wetlands, primary headwater streams, riparian corridors, streams and flood plains, and plants, especially trees.

A wetland increases runoff retention and reduces flooding. It removes pollutants, breaks them down, and buries them. It is a critical and significant habitat for rare and endangered birds, amphibians, and botany. A wetland increases property values, allows for wildlife viewing, and provides aesthetic enjoyment. According to a study by Ohio State University, a category III wetland in northeast Ohio has value up to $47,000 per acre. The economic benefits are measured by the environmental service the wetlands provide.

The primary headwater streams are small and fleeting. Many are ditched, covered, or otherwise lost. Restoration is expensive and often impossible, but the primary streams are a key determinant in the overall condition of the river system and should be preserved.

The riparian corridor is the area adjacent to the stream or waterway. It includes wetlands, flood plains, plants, and habitat. Protecting the riparian corridor ensures a healthier stream. It controls flooding, erosion, and nonpoint source pollution. It purifies ground water and preserves the habitat for plants, insects, and animals. These benefits are lost if inappropriate development occurs in the riparian corridor. The economic benefits of development projects are often limited to 15 to 20 years. Tax benefits are often abated and impervious surfaces are added, creating more problems, more pollution. When riparian corridors and other green infrastructure are not protected, communities pay more for storm water control and water treatment. The flooding that can result adds an economic burden to communities.

Flood plains reduce erosion and flood damage. The flood costs for governments in Ohio in 1998 - 2002 totaled $65.5 million. Flood plains control sediment. The 2002 cost of dredging Ohio’s Lake Erie harbors was $5.6 million.

Protecting the streams provides an increased recreational value. Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking generate dollars into the economy and can equal or exceed what development can generate. Trails can be included in open space projects, encouraging many beneficial activities. Walking the trails, biking, and bird-watching can reduce stress and depression. Walking can reduce weight and the effects of weight. Physical activity can reverse the effects of or the progression of numerous diseases and conditions.

In the question and answer period following her presentation, Ms. Marsh emphasized the need to address these issues with the legislators. It is an effective way to bring about change by calling your state representatives and letting them know that you want the green infrastructure protected.

"Maximizing the Ecological Benefits of Open Space Projects" can be scheduled for any organization working on open space issues. Also, a version for local officials is available. The presentation includes a host of references and resources. To schedule a presentation or for further information, contact Elaine Marsh, Project Director of Ohio Greenways at (330) 657-2055 or ohgreenway@aol.com.You can find out more about Ohio Greenways at www.ohiogreenways.org.