WRLC ENBRIDGE WATERSHED MINI-GRANT FUNDED NATIVE BEE HOUSE WORKSHOPS

The primary goal of this project is to educate the public about the critical role of native bees in our ecosystem while empowering them to contribute directly to bee conservation. Native bee populations are declining due to habitat loss and pesticide use, which in turn threatens the many plant species that depend on bees for pollination. In North America, most bee species are solitary nesters, often utilizing cavities such as hollow plant stems for nesting. Bee boxes, designed to mimic these natural nesting sites, have become an increasingly popular conservation tool. These small structures, filled with hollow tubes, provide much-needed habitat for solitary bees.

The workshops funded by this grant will engage participants in hands-on conservation by allowing them to construct and install both bee houses and small pollinator gardens on their properties, offering immediate, tangible ways to support local bee populations. Additionally, these workshops will foster broader community involvement in conservation, as participants will be encouraged to continue caring for their bee houses through late-season maintenance, supported by replacement reeds provided after the first season. Secondary goals include increasing community interest in future workshops, laying the foundation for ongoing conservation programming, and expanding the reach of these initial efforts to ensure long-term impact.

For more information, contact:
Matt Siefert, Watershed Coordinator, TCWP

[email protected]

330.963.6863 x5102

artsnow funded rain barrel community artwork

Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners Collaborates with RB Chamberlin Middle School Students for Environmental Art Project

Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners (TCWP), in collaboration with art teacher Wendy Neto and her RB Chamberlin Middle School students, are transforming rain barrels into vibrant artworks. Managed by a TCWP NOWCorps AmeriCorps member, this project will install student-painted barrels across community spaces, merging environmental education with public art. The initiative highlights the importance of water conservation and the role of rain barrels in capturing and reusing rainwater.

In addition to adding visual appeal to public spaces, the project integrates cultural programming into Akron and Summit County’s outdoor environments. Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners will lead educational sessions on watershed science and sustainable practices. The initiative aligns with the Summit County Cultural Plan, combining art and environmental education to enrich the community.

Key goals include raising environmental awareness, promoting rainwater harvesting, fostering community collaboration, and enhancing public spaces through art. The project also ensures park equity by distributing rain barrels across diverse locations, giving all residents an opportunity to participate.

For more information, contact:
Dr. Erica Matheny, Executive Director, TCWP

[email protected]

330.963.6863 x5103

Darrow Road Park Restoration Project

The City of Hudson has been awarded a $250,000 OEPA Section 319 grant with matching funds from the City. Funds will be used to enhance and permanently protect riparian habitat and wetlands in this valuable headwaters area for Tinker’s Creek. Invasive species will be treated, and native species will be installed to add diversity, resilience, and stormwater function to this area.

EnviroScience, Inc., alongside RiverReach Construction and GPD Group, is leading the Darrow Road Stream Restoration Project’s design-build team. Known locally as Darrow Road Park Ditch, this stream has long faced challenges due to its straight, deep channel—caused by historic dredging and sediment buildup—which has altered the natural flow and reduced its connection to the floodplain. Over time, these changes have led to increased erosion, reduced water quality, and loss of habitat for fish and wildlife.

We aim to restore its natural functions while preserving the surrounding landscape and protecting nearby homes and roads. Creating gentle bends and meanders will help the stream reconnect with its floodplain, improving its ability to filter nutrients, slow down water flow, and create diverse habitats like riffles and pools for wildlife to thrive.

In addition to enhancing the stream, we’re also focusing on improving the surrounding wetlands. We will manage invasive plant species and reintroduce native plants to help stabilize streambanks and support the local ecosystem. These changes will improve water quality and offer more vibrant spaces for plants and wildlife.

This project is currently in the design phase, with permitting next, and construction slated to begin in 2025. Once completed, visitors to Darrow Road Park can look forward to a healthier, more resilient stream that supports a thriving ecosystem while enhancing the park’s natural beauty for everyone to enjoy.

Learn more about the project at EnviroScience Darrow Road Park Stream Restoration Blog.

This project will increase TCWP’s progress towards restoring habitats and water quality in the watershed. This site is an important headwaters site within the City of Hudson which will continue to be protected from development and made accessible to the public. We are excited about the opportunity to put this project on the ground with great partners in the City, the EPA, and Friends of Hudson Parks.