Toledo Metroparks
For a Map of Metroparks Click Here
Hours open daily from 7 a.m. until dark… enjoy walking, biking and cross-country skiing on several trails plus outdoor concerts and numerous special events…best of all - it’s free!
What is this fantastic attraction you ask?
The Toledo Area Metroparks, which benefits the entire community even if you ever set foot in the approximately 8,000 acres of natural habitat including nine main parks.
This land reduces pollution by keeping the air and water clean while increasing property values (Metroparks are supported by a small property tax levy) to improve the quality of life in the community.
Metroparks also preserves some of the region's significant historical sites, such as the Manor House, the one-room Oak Grove School at Wildwood Preserve and the Miami and Erie Canals.
Want to learn more about your environment and enjoy yourself at the same time? Sign up for Metroparks education programs offered for preschool to adult throughout the year.
“Every day is an education at Metroparks,” says Scott Carpenter, Metroparks communications manager. “I think a lot of people would be surprised at the range of properties the park district owns, the number of public programs we offer and the importance of Metroparks to the overall health of our community. People rely on the parks on a daily basis, as a part of their daily routine. Families host huge reunions here. People spend part of their vacation here.” Facilities at each park vary by location and are available for rent (call 419-535-3050 for more information) .
Last year more than 83,000 people attended Metroparks natural, historical and cultural programs, ranging from nature walks to historical crafts to opera performances. Metroparks host approximately 60 free or low-cost family programs every month, so be sure to check those calendars!
You can also visit the Metroparks Web site at MetroparksToledo.com that includes comprehensive information for the community. A new version of the Web site is currently being designed in-house at Metroparks and will be built and hosted by WGTE Public Television.
Metroparks currently has three major additions in the works:
- The Fallen Timbers Battlefield in Maumee is a national historical site owned by Metroparks and affiliated with the National Park Service. We are just completing a master plan and will begin soon to apply for grants to develop it into a history park.
- The Blue Creek Conservation Area in Whitehouse is the site of the former Toledo House of Corrections. Metropark is partnering with the Lucas Soil and Water Conservation District and Nature's Nursery to use the site as a center for nature, agriculture and wildlife education and restoration. An adjacent property, known as the Nona France Recreation Area, recently became park of Metroparks and will continue to be used for active recreation under an agreement with the local jurisdiction.
- The Brookwood Center for the Arts, on property donated to the park district near Heatherdowns and Holland-Sylvania Road. It's a scenic setting along Swan Creek that will be used to inspire artists of all kinds.
Land acquisition has been another accomplishment in recent years, specifically, piecing together a corridor to connect Secor and Oak Openings Preserve Metroparks, located in the western part of Toledo. Pearson Metropark, located in eastern Lucas County, has been doubled in size as well.
Last year, Metroparks celebrated their 75th anniversary. “We are very proud of beautiful properties we've been able to buy with local tax dollars and state grants to ensure these lands for future generations,” says Carpenter. Volunteers and members/private partners provide additional support as they consistently contribute to the success of Metroparks.
“It's amazing to reflect on the foresight the park district's founders had to set aside these places for generations to enjoy,” adds Carpenter. “The Metroparks’ founders would be proud of our community today for continuing to look ahead and set aside parkland for the future.”
Author: Michael Siebenaler
Author's e-mail: tallwriterms@yahoo.com
Date: April 21, 2004
