Restrooms at Manhattan Marsh Preserve Metropark
Courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Metroparks Toledo used their ORLP grant to construct restrooms, a parking lot, scenic overlooks, interpretive signage and a boardwalk trail. These features provide opportunities for recreation and education to residents of all ages.
This includes the students of Chase STEMM Academy, an elementary school next to the marsh. Chase STEMM Academy students use the preserve as an outdoor classroom. Here, they learn first-hand why wetlands are an important habitat in northeastern Ohio. They can also observe wildlife, like bald eagles, bullfrogs, and monarch butterflies. In partnership with Metroparks Toledo, Chase STEMM Academy students have become ambassadors for Manhattan Marsh. They have created podcasts, signs, and other educational materials to help spread community awareness of the preserve.