On April 22, 2021, the Hueston Woods State Nature Preserve (HWSNP) was inducted into the national Old Growth Forest Network (OGFN). The OGFN is the only national network in the U.S. of protected, old-growth, native forests where people of all generations can experience biodiversity and the beauty of nature.
HWSNP was “adopted” by AMV in 2012 for conservation and stewardship. Initially funded by a grant authored by then (and again now) chapter president Gail Reynolds, AMV has held invasive plant removal workdays in HWSNP each spring, fall, or both. Additionally, the chapter has sponsored treatment of select ash trees along hiking trails to prevent mortality from the invasive insect pest Emerald Ash Borer. Mark T. Gilmore of AMV was asked to be the OGFN County Coordinator for Butler and Preble Counties. If you know of any old growth forest stands to nominate, please bring them to Mark’s attention.
Due to the pandemic, attendance at the dedication ceremony was limited to 10. It is hoped that a future recognition event could include a much larger group of attendees. Along with OGFN founder and executive director Joan Maloof who traveled from Maryland’s eastern shore for five dedications in three days, representing AMV were four Board members, Jeff Johnson (Chief), and Michele Comer of ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves.
Described as “a tiny remnant of the beech-maple forest that once stretched in a broad band from southwestern Ohio to its northeastern corner,” HWSNP was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1967, became a state nature preserve in 1973, and is within an "IBA" / Important Bird Area designated by the National Audubon Society. The Northern Midwest Route of the coast-to-coast American Discovery Trail passes through HWSNP along Sugar Bush and Big Woods trails, on the western shore of Acton Lake. Visit this website to see HWSNP’s entry on the Network’s website.
To date, there are 18 Ohio forests included in the old-growth forest network. A list and description of these 18 forests can be found here.