Monday, September 23, 2013
Southwest Ohio river recreation project under way
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DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — Work has begun on a new river recreation project in southwest Ohio.
What will be known as Mad River Run in Dayton is expected to draw kayaks and canoes. It will feature a 2,100-foot whitewater stretch that includes a drop, with more drops planned when funds become available.
Five Rivers MetroParks says the project includes conservation measures, with bank stabilization work, the Dayton Daily News reports (http://bit.ly/15YYHkv ).
The first phase of construction is funded in part by a $100,000 Dayton Rotary Club donation.
The parks agency says the Mad River section being worked on is one of the most heavily paddled and fished sections of the spring-fed river.
Visitors to the Midwest Outdoor Experience running Oct. 4-5 in Dayton should be able to see the project.
When completed, the Mad River Run will allow kayakers and canoeists to put in at Eastwood and take out nearly four miles later at RiverScape MetroPark. Deep water holes formed by flow around rock structures should provide good fishing.
Five Rivers MetroParks says the project will improve access, aquatic habitat and river safety.
“The Rotary Club of Dayton is excited to hear about the start of construction of Mad River Run, a project we adopted to commemorate our 100 years of service to the local community,” said Greg Birkemeyer, the club’s president.
Meanwhile, the RiverScape River Run project in downtown Dayton could begin construction next year after receiving permits from the U.S. Corps of Engineers. The project is meant will include a slower passageway for canoes and a faster whitewater passage for kayaks.
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Information from: Dayton Daily News, http://www.daytondailynews.com