Phase I of new park opens August 14, 2016 2:00pm
RAVENNA TOWNSHIP, OHIO. July 25, 2016.
The Portage Park District will open its newest park, Shaw Woods Working Lands Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 2:00 pm, Sunday August 14th. The public is invited to attend the ceremony followed by a hike at 7075 Beery Rd. in Ravenna Township.
The 145 acre property was originally acquired by Douglas and Virginia Shaw several years ago with the intention of eventually donating it to the Portage Park District for permanent conservation and the enjoyment of all. Virginia completed the donation in late 2014 after the passage of the Park District’s first ever funding levy that ensured the District’s ability to improve and manage the property.
The property features mature woods, high quality wetlands, headwater streams and the West Branch of the Mahoning River upstream of West Branch State Park. Just over 3 miles of trails in this Phase I development will be open for horseback riding and hiking, cross country skiing and simply enjoying the beauty of nature. In keeping with Virginia’s vision to also showcase land management practices for private conservation land owners, the Park District will continue to manage the forest for selective timber harvest along with other Agroforestry opportunities such as cultivating native fruit trees and shrubs, mushrooms, nuts, etc. Future educational programs will aim to encourage and inspire others to manage their lands in balance with nature to yield multiple benefits.
“The Shaws are leaving a tremendous legacy with the gift of this beautiful park”, said Christine Craycroft, Executive Director, “we’re looking forward to making continued improvements and providing stewardship and programming for public enjoyment, and to inspire further conservation”.
The Portage Park District’s mission is to conserve Portage County’s natural heritage and provide opportunities for its appreciation and enjoyment. For more information, call (330) 297-7728 or visit www.portageparkdistrict.org.
Image Courtesy of: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puente_Hills