Mill Creek MetroParks recently completed survey efforts to identify the deer population within all MetroParks owned or managed properties. Results of that survey were shared with the public at the Board of Park Commissioners on Monday, February 13, 2023. Infrared aerial deer photography identified a deer population within the MetroParks that is more than nineteen (19) times the recommended carrying capacity of the land, leading to significant negative impacts to both the health of the deer population and the ecological biodiversity of the land as well as increased human conflicts.

As a result of the survey, the MetroParks is actively working towards the development of a long-term management plan to address the issue. In doing so, the MetroParks is actively seeking input from members of the community who wish to provide input and/or comment on this issue. Members of the community can log onto the MetroParks website or scan the QR code included.

The next Regular Meeting of the Board of Park Commissioners, of Mill Creek MetroParks is scheduled for Monday, February 13, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., in the Education Building – McMahon Hall, at the MetroParks Farm, on Rt. 46, in Canfield. The agenda will be available on the website after 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

In response to the City of Youngstown emergency sewer repair project, beginning January 31, 2023, West Newport Drive from Canfield Road to the Newport Boathouse, including Kiowa Road and Cascade Drive, will be closed to all vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic for approximately two weeks. Hampton Drive will remain open for traffic.

The next Regular Meeting of the Board of Park Commissioners, of Mill Creek MetroParks is scheduled for Monday, January 9, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., in the Education Building – McMahon Hall, at the MetroParks Farm, on Rt. 46, in Canfield. The agenda will be available on the website after 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

Effective Friday, December 2, 2022 the following roads in Mill Creek Park will be closed to vehicular traffic for the winter season:

• High Drive, between Chestnut Hill Drive and West Cohasset Drive
• Chestnut Hill Drive, between Canfield Road and High Drive
• Calvary Run Drive, between Belle Vista Avenue and Milton Avenue

When closed to vehicular traffic, these roads are available for recreational use for hiking, cross country skiing and sledding. Aside from recreational opportunities, benefits of winter road closures include cost savings associated with snow/ice removal as well as a reduction of negative environmental impacts from deicing salt. All roads will reopen in the spring when weather permits.

In the winter months, snow and ice can create slippery roadway conditions. Roads with limited shoulders, lack of guardrails and steep grades can become increasingly hazardous for motorists. Always use caution when driving on MetroParks roads.