Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz have announced the addition of eight new wetland projects, increasing the total number of H2Ohio wetland projects to 203. This milestone highlights the state’s ongoing commitment to improving water quality and protecting Ohio’s natural ecosystems.
Commitment to Cleaner Waterways
Governor DeWine emphasized the long-term impact of these projects on Ohio’s waterways, noting that scientific research and data support the role of wetlands in reducing algal blooms and improving water quality. While the benefits may take time to fully materialize, every wetland developed under H2Ohio plays a role in preventing water pollution and ensuring cleaner lakes and rivers.
A total of $7.7 million in H2Ohio grant funding has been allocated to support the latest projects, which will be located in the Western Lake Erie Basin (WLEB) counties of Williams, Lucas, Wood, Hancock, and Ottawa. The WLEB has been a primary focus of the initiative due to its significant impact on Lake Erie, a body of water that has faced ongoing challenges with algal blooms and pollution. Out of the 203 H2Ohio wetland projects, 105 are actively working to improve water quality within the WLEB region.
Environmental Benefits of Wetlands
Wetlands are a key component of the H2Ohio initiative because they help slow water flow, allowing nutrients to settle instead of reaching major waterways where they can contribute to harmful algal blooms. Wetlands also filter pollutants, provide habitats for wildlife, and support native plant species.
ODNR Director Mary Mertz emphasized the environmental benefits of these efforts, stating that each project is not only improving water quality but also preserving Ohio’s natural beauty. The wetlands enhance ecosystems, support biodiversity, and serve as critical natural infrastructure that protects the state’s water resources.
Through H2Ohio, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has partnered with Lake Erie Aquatic Research Network (LEARN), a team of researchers analyzing the effectiveness of wetland projects. By closely monitoring these sites, scientists can determine how well each project is functioning and make adjustments to optimize water quality improvements.
H2Ohio’s Expanding Efforts
H2Ohio was launched in 2019 as a statewide water quality initiative to address the complex environmental challenges impacting Ohio’s waterways. The program takes a science-based approach to reducing pollution and algal blooms while supporting conservation and clean water infrastructure.
The initiative’s broad focus includes:
- Promoting best farming practices to limit nutrient runoff
- Reducing road salt runoff that can harm aquatic ecosystems
- Cleaning up litter to prevent pollution in waterways
- Removing outdated dams to restore natural water flow
- Conserving land to protect ecosystems and reduce pollution
- Revitalizing water infrastructure to ensure clean drinking water
By addressing multiple environmental factors, H2Ohio aims to create long-term solutions for cleaner and healthier water across the state.
Ongoing Commitment to a Healthier Environment
With over 200 wetland projects now underway, Ohio is continuing to make significant progress in protecting its waterways for future generations. Governor DeWine and ODNR remain dedicated to expanding wetland restoration efforts while ensuring these projects deliver the best possible environmental impact.
Residents can learn more about H2Ohio’s mission, ongoing projects, and future initiatives by visiting h2.ohio.gov.
