New Nature Preserve Dedicated at Sycamore Park

Immediate Release
October 19, 2009

Batavia, Ohio. “It’s like a dream come true for us,” said Jim Wilson during dedication ceremonies on Friday, October 16, 2009 for the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve at Sycamore Park in Batavia Township. The 105 acre nature preserve sits adjacent to the 53 acre Sycamore Park, now the largest park within the Clermont County Park District. The nature preserve includes three miles of hiking trails, scenic views of the East Fork of the Little Miami River, and a 25 acre island.

“This is a wonderful park and preserve for the citizens of Clermont County to enjoy,” said Clermont Board of Commissioners President Ed Humphrey. The land was purchased utilizing a Clean Ohio Grant. “It’s really great when you can find people willing to give up property for the betterment of the community,” said State Representative Joe Uecker. “It is the best use I’ve seen, in a long time, of government partnering with Clean Ohio to make something like this happen.”

Clermont Park District Board Member Ken Stewart praised the Wilson’s for letting their love of nature and the great outdoors propel them to work with the park system to turn the land into something the community will enjoy for many years to come.

During the ceremonies, the Park Board presented an aerial photograph of the preserve to the Wilson family and recognized local Eagle Scout Jordan Shouse for his work on trails at the park.

“I hope everyone enjoys this new addition to Sycamore Park,” said Frances Wilson, after a marker was unveiled officially naming the preserve the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve.

Pictured above: Clermont Park District Board member Ken Stewart, Frances and Jim Wilson, and Park Board members Dave Anspach and Bill Stearns at the dedication of the new nature preserve at Sycamore Park.

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For additional information about this or other county news, contact Clermont County Communications Director Kathryn Lehr at (513) 732-7597 or by e-mail, klehr@co.clermont.oh.us.