Downtown Findlay urban prairie gets green light

FINDLAY — Work on a new five-acre urban prairie near downtown Findlay will begin this spring. The Blanchard River Watershed Partnership (BRWP) has received a $20,116 grant from the Findlay‑Hancock County Community Foundation to support the urban prairie pilot project planned for flood mitigation land along East Main Cross Street. The project will convert the vacant property, east of Lye Creek, into a native prairie designed to improve stormwater management while providing environmental and community benefits. In the spring, work will be done to remove non-native vegetation and invasive species. A native seed mix will be sown in December, followed in spring 2027 by the planting of more than 4,000 native plants and 35 to 40 shade trees. BRWP is partnering with the city of Findlay and the Toledo Zoo's Wild Toledo program, which specializes in converting turf grass and underused land into native prairie ecosystems. Wild Toledo will assist with planning, installation and early maintenance of the prairie. Plans also include accessible walking paths and interpretive signage highlighting prairie benefits and the wildlife the habitat supports. Wild Toledo will maintain the site for two years after installation to help ensure successful plant establishment. Although the project will take several years to fully mature, prairies typically reach full bloom in about three years, creating landscapes rich in wildflowers, birds and pollinators, according to organizers. "Urban prairies lower long‑term maintenance costs and improve stormwater management while adding ecological and educational value to our community," said Jane McCleary, president of the BRWP board. The grant will also support volunteer opportunities throughout the restoration process. Once completed, the prairie will offer free public access for recreation, environmental education and family programming. McCleary said the pilot project will also serve as a model for other communities looking for sustainable ways to manage flood‑mitigation land. According to project organizers, deep-rooted native prairie plants can absorb significantly more rainwater than traditional turf grass, helping reduce runoff, limit erosion and support flood mitigation efforts. "The initiative will transform vacant floodplain into a healthy, functional prairie that supports both our environment and our community," said McCleary. "It's about using land that was impacted by flooding in a way that's sustainable for the long term." The prairie will be located on city-owned flood-mitigation property along East Main Cross Street, adjacent to Lye Creek, where a riparian buffer was installed several years ago. The site was selected for its floodplain location and visibility. "This project reflects the city's commitment to sustainability, stewardship and community engagement," McCleary said. "It shows how creativity and care can turn flood-impacted land into a thriving public resource."