The Cuyahoga River Watershed

The Cuyahoga River watershed is a vital and historic area in Northeast Ohio, covering over 800 square miles and supporting diverse ecosystems. This watershed, famous for the river that famously caught fire in 1969, has become a symbol of environmental rebirth. Stretching through Cuyahoga, Summit, and other neighboring counties, it feeds into Lake Erie and plays a crucial role in providing water, recreation, and natural habitat for local communities. Today, efforts to protect and restore the Cuyahoga River and its tributaries focus on improving water quality, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable land use practices. The continued care of this watershed ensures a healthier environment and a legacy of resilience and renewal.

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Current projects:

In 2024 SSWCD watershed staff helped the Village of Lakemore secure a highly competitive Department of Forestry grant to begin an urban forestry program. This grant will help the community of Lakemore plant several, much needed, native trees along the shoreline of Springfield Lake. 

The Trees Are In!!!
During the fall of 2024, Bartlett Tree planted 15 large caliper trees in Dodd's Park. These trees will help stabilize the shoreline, reducing erosion and filtering stormwater runoff before it enters the lake. By slowing and absorbing rainfall, they improve water quality and reduce nutrient pollution—key contributors to harmful algal blooms. In addition, the trees will enhance habitat for wildlife, increase the park’s canopy cover, and create a more beautiful, shaded space for residents to enjoy.

Project site in Dodd's Park

Flow meter sampling of the Cuyahoga River