USDA, ODNR perform goose management in Mill Creek MetroParks

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), under the supervision of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), conducted goose management this morning in Mill Creek Park. Utilizing methods recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association, Canada geese were humanely euthanized by USDA.

For years, Mill Creek MetroParks has been addressing goose management issues. We have taken steps utilizing various methods to address these issues, including harassment (flare guns, predator decoys, and dogs), egg addling (treatment of eggs to prevent development/hatching; performed under ODNR permit), habitat modification, and educating the public about not feeding wildlife. These methods have proven unsuccessful; therefore, with a permit from ODNR, the roundup is the next step to reduce the population to a more manageable level. Mill Creek MetroParks is not authorized by ODNR to relocate the geese.

Mill Creek MetroParks has observed and received numerous complaints from visitors whose MetroParks experience has been negatively impacted by geese due to their droppings and aggressive behavior. Goose droppings contain E.coli and other potential pathogens, and the excessive goose droppings in Mill Creek Park can be a disease concern for both people and pets. The large volume of droppings in public areas has created a safety hazard for people. Geese in Mill Creek Park have lost their fear of humans and become aggressive. MetroParks staff has observed incidents where children and adults were in danger of being bitten or attacked by geese while enjoying the MetroParks. The large goose population has also impacted the habitats in Mill Creek Park through overgrazing of grass and landscape plantings, trampling of vegetation, and erosion of shorelines.

“It’s unfortunate that it has come to this point,” said Dennis Miller, executive director of Mill Creek MetroParks. “After consulting with ODNR, this was determined to be the next step and should give us more success for nonlethal management in the future. Management of natural resources, trees, and wildlife is something we take very seriously at the MetroParks and all options are explored prior to making decisions.”

Due to concerns about the possibility of heavy metals and contamination in wild resident geese, MetroParks policy is to not donate the meat.

The public can help Mill Creek MetroParks manage the goose population by not feeding the waterfowl/wildlife. Although it can be entertaining to feed the animals, the food normally given is not appropriate for them and contributes to contamination, overpopulation, and aggressive conflicts.

For more information about Canada goose management, visit our Goose Management page, or contact ODNR or USDA.

For more information about our “Do Not Feed the Wildlife” campaign, visit our “Do Not Feed the Wildlife” page.

MVHS, Mill Creek MetroParks, YNDC to present “Travel Idora” Neighborhood Tour

Mahoning Valley Historical Society’s Young Leaders Advisory Board presents the Travel Idora Neighborhood bus tour, the first installment of its HISTORY-TO-GO series which focuses on local history events. The tour will be held Saturday, June 21 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Buses will depart and return at the Youngstown Playhouse (free parking available). Boarding will begin at 1:30 p.m. Seating is limited and is available on a first come, first serve basis. The tour is free and open to the public.

This tour will take a comprehensive look at one of Youngstown’s most unique neighborhoods. Participants will gain insight into its 100+ years of history and learn about current developments and plans to revitalize this area as well. Stops along the tour include Mill Creek MetroParks’ Ford Nature Center, YNDC’s Urban Roots Farm, and a historic home under renovation by YNDC. Tour guides will discuss the role Idora Park played in the development of the area, and a short walking tour of Ottawa Avenue will profile the architectural history of three to four houses.

For more information, call Mahoning Valley Historical Society at 330.743.2589 or email mvhs@mahoninghistory.org.

All Hail the Trails

Blog Author: Ellie Rafoth, Community Engagement Intern

This Saturday, June 7, 2014, is National Trails Day! Hosted by the American Hiking Society, National Trails Day is a celebration of America’s grand trail system. All across the country, people will be partaking in outdoor activities that celebrate the importance and benefits of trails.

Mill Creek Park offers 20 miles of drives and 15 miles of foot trails. These trails allow visitors to access nature for recreation, education, and exploration. Visitors to the MetroParks have the opportunity to get outside, breathe, exercise, escape stresses, and enjoy the scenic routes of the MetroParks individually or with family and friends. In honor of National Trails Day, I sat down with Justin Rogers, MCMP’s Planning Manager to discuss the beautiful trails that are found in MCMP.

ER: Can you tell me a little bit about trails in MCMP?

JR: There are predominantly two types of trails in MCMP: primitive hiking trails and paved multi-use trails. Primitive hiking trails are the natural, barren ground trails that travel through lush vegetation or alongside bodies of water. These trails offer a natural route with scenic views of the MetroParks. Historically, many of these trails developed in the 1920’s and 30’s as Mill Creek Park began to expand. Regarding paved trails, these are the trails that cater to cyclists, runners, walkers, and many other visitors seeking a paved surface for active recreation.

ER: What goes in to the planning and maintenance of MCMP trails?

JR: There are many factors that go into planning trails in the MetroParks. We aim to create a uniform walking surface that provides a natural, scenic route for all visitors. Elements such as vegetation, streams, bridges, topography, and grade all factor in to the alignment of trails. Regarding maintenance, the MetroParks has a dedicated crew that works year round to address trail issues. This crew focuses on drainage issues, exposed tree roots, and rerouting trails for safety reasons.

ER: What are the most popular trails in MCMP and why?

JR: The East Golf Hike/Bike Trail that runs 1.5 miles from Route 224 to Shields Road is the one of the most popular trails. Its convenient location and exceptional condition makes this paved multi-use trail a popular destination for recreation in the MetroParks. The MetroParks Bikeway is also extremely popular because of its expansive nature. With 11 miles of paved roadway, it includes three trailheads and various spur trails that extend into nearby neighborhoods. It travels through various environments of farm and forest and also caters to longer distance recreation. The Bikeway is the MetroParks’ physical connection to neighboring counties and the region as a section of the Great Ohio Lake to River Greenway. In other words, the MetroParks Bikeway acts as a linear park that showcases natural environments while providing transportation and recreational opportunities.

ER: What is the most challenging trail in MCMP and why?

JR: I would say that there are two trails that I consider most challenging in the MetroParks. First, the West Cohasset Walk Trail found on the west side of Lake Cohasset because of its ravine trail segments that travel up and down a hilly terrain. Another challenging trail in the MetroParks is the West Gorge Trail by the Mill. Opposite from the East Gorge Boardwalk, the West Gorge Trail travels alongside Mill Creek through massive walls of sandstone that enhance the experience of a challenging route. The southern trails through Yellow Creek Park also provide a challenging, unique experience.

ER: What do trails offer to visitors of MCMP?

JR: Our trails are versatile. As seasons change, MCMP’s trails still provide intimate views, a connected experience with nature, and allow for exploration in the undeveloped parts of the MetroParks. Whether an individual is seeking active recreation encompassing health and fitness or passive recreation including birding, geocaching, or a leisurely stroll, our trails provide options to the individuality of each MetroParks visitor.

ER: What are your favorite trails in MCMP?

JR: One of my favorite trails in the MetroParks is the trail system at the Mill Creek Preserve on Western Reserve Road. I really love this trail because I was project manager for the Wetland Restoration Project that took place in 2009. By constructing a trail system, we created a wetland system to control storm water and reestablish various wetland habitat. It also provides an interpretive educational experience of the MetroParks. As for paved trails, I enjoy the East Cohasset Trail because it was the first roadway in Mill Creek Park and the MetroParks Bikeway because of its expansive nature. A really great foot trail to experience is the Mindy Henning Memorial Trail located off of the MetroParks Bikeway. It’s a tucked away jewel; you travel through agricultural fields, forestry, then you circle a hidden pond. This trail showcases the natural, successional growth around the farm and provides a different experience and view of the MetroParks Farm.

ER: Any final thoughts?

JR: Get out and enjoy the trails! I would love to see more people experience these trails. They are diverse, well-maintained by MetroParks personnel, and provide a different experience throughout each season for both education and recreation.

For more information about MCMP’s trails visit www.millcreekmetroparks.org and Happy National Trails Day!