HISTORY

HISTORY

Scenic rivers

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources says Little Beaver Creek in southern Columbiana County represents some of the most rugged and wildest land in Ohio. Here are some other facts:

Ohio was the first state in the United States to have designated wild and scenic rivers. The river designation for Beaver Creek was approved in 1974.

Some 33 miles of the creek have been designated as wild and scenic.

The designation also affects the land on either side of the stream, which is left in a natural state.

The forest is more than a mile deep in places. Nearby ridges top over 200 feet and provide breathtaking views of the valley.

The stream is home of the endangered hellbender, a large aquatic salamander.

The Beaver Creek portions with the designation include the North Fork that comes from Pennsylvania, the Middle Fork that comes from the Salem area and the West Fork that comes from the Gavers area. They merge and eventually reach the Ohio River.

Source: ODNR