You might not know just how grand the Grand River is if you
haven’t been to Lake Metroparks’ River Jamboree! The Grand River represents one
of the finest examples of a natural stream found anywhere in Ohio. Mainly due
to the rugged surroundings and minimal impact from urbanization and
development, the Grand River became the second river to be designated Wild and
Scenic by the Ohio Scenic Rivers Program.
The Grand River runs 103 miles passing through five counties in
Northeast Ohio. The headwaters start in Geauga and Portage counties, then flow
northeast through Trumbull and Ashtabula counties before taking a 90 degree
turn into Lake County. Once in Lake County, the Grand runs 26 miles to its
mouth in Fairport Harbor. The river borders 12 Lake Metroparks, which protects
30 percent of the river shoreline.
The Grand River has the most aquatic diversity of any Ohio Lake
Erie tributary due to the slower moving waters and neighboring wetlands. These
wetlands provide fantastic habitat for countless wildlife species including
river otters, which have made a comeback after their reintroduction by the
Division of Wildlife in 1986. Eagles and ospreys can be seen flying overhead
and on warm days northern map turtles and spiny softshell turtles bask along
the river bank. There are 87 fish species in the Grand, including longnose gar, smallmouth bass and rainbow
darters. Additionally, the river is home to an impressive 22 species of
freshwater mussels, the most endangered animals in North America.
Hidden Valley Park
July 12 • 1 to 4 pm
FREE • Registration requested
This year’s River Jamboree allows you to “get wet with nets.” Take
the time to try out several different types of nets to find insects, fish,
snakes and more. Bring family and friends to jump in and experience the
remarkable Grand River with us on Sunday, July 12 at Hidden Valley Park in
Madison. Lake Metroparks naturalists and local conservation groups will be on
hand with fun activities for the whole family.
The River Jamboree is a free event. Registration is requested and
can be made online or by calling 440-358-7275.
Article by Trevor Wearstler, Interpretive Naturalist
Article by Trevor Wearstler, Interpretive Naturalist
