On Tuesday, May 7, 2024, ground was broken for a project envisioned by the late commissioner Dave McClure. The McClure Family, including his son Christopher and his father, Andy, joined hands with the ACPD, Friends of the ACPD, Donors, and volunteers to celebrate this significant milestone.
A moment in time that was a touching tribute to Commissioner McClure’s legacy and a testament to the power of community collaboration.
Ashland County Park District Expands Avian Acres Farm Park with Over 45 Acres Perry Township, Ashland County – The Ashland County Park District is thrilled to announce the expansion of Avian Acres Farm Park by over 45 acres, made possible through the support of the Clean Ohio Green Space Conservation program and a generous local contribution. Situated in Perry Township along the scenic Jerome Fork of the Mohican River, the newly acquired land not only increases the park’s size but also enhances its environmental significance. The addition includes over 100 linear feet of headwater stream protection and showcases Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetlands along with two Freshwater Emergent Wetlands. Moreover, this expansion bolsters habitat protection for various endangered, threatened, and species of concern, this includes Monarch Butterflies, Little Brown Bats,
Northern Harriers, Sandhill Cranes, and the recently de-listed Trumpeter Swans.
Future plans for the site are ambitious, aiming to improve guest access and parking facilities at Avian Acres Farm Park. Additionally, enhancements to the existing trail network are planned. Initiatives are also planned to restore and enrich the natural wetlands and promote pollinator and habitat diversity.
Avian Acres Farm Park was initially donated to the Park District in 2020. The park opened to the public in 2022 and now safeguards over 349 acres of precious greenspace. The park boasts the Historic Taylor Barn, 80 acres of wetlands, natural surface trails, a fishing pond, and an ongoing Regenerative Agriculture project initiated in 2023. In recognition of its environmental stewardship and community engagement, Avian Acres Farm Park was a highlight of the Ashland County Farm Tour in 2023. The park also proudly hosted Pheasants Forever’s ‘A Day in the Uplands: Managing Private Lands for Pollinators and Wildlife’ workshop, which garnered significant success. Building on last years achievements, Pheasants
Forever is set to return with “The Sequel” at Avian Acres Farm Park this Summer on July 27th.