by flowadmin | Jan 18, 2016 | Recreation, Volunteers
Postcard of the Lake House at Olentangy Park, 1911.
Do you drive over the bridges of the Olentangy day after day and admire its beauty? Do you see kayakers and canoers? Have you ever wondered, “how can I do that?”
Lisa Daris, an urban environmental optimist and owner of Olentangy Paddle will be the guest lecturer at the next FLOW public meeting, Monday, February 1 at 7 pm (address below). Lisa will talk about experiencing the river in a boat! She will give pointers about where to put-in, where to take-out, and share insights about the wildlife and changing health of the Olentangy.
We will have a RAFFLE for FLOW shirts and a few other prizes, and we would love for you to participate!
Refreshments and snacks will be provided. Please let us know if you intend to make it out!
When and Where:
Monday, February 1
7:15 PM – 8:30 PM
Veritas Community Church
345 E 2nd Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43201
by flowadmin | Mar 10, 2014 | Recreation
Fishermen on the Olentangy River
© George C. Anderson
The Olentangy River has a history as a fishing destination. Early in the 1900’s the Olentangy was known to sport fishers as a haven for small mouth bass. Although sport fish populations declined in the middle of the century, small mouth bass and other game fish have become more abundant in recent years. Fly fisherman are gradually becoming a common sight on the river once again.
In general, fish on the Olentangy are considered safe for human consumption, but some restrictions and precautions do apply. If you have questions, check the Ohio Sport Fish Consumption Advisory.
For more information:
Central Ohio Fly Fishers
by flowadmin | Mar 15, 2013 | Recreation
Turkey Run © George C. Anderson
Hiking and Walking
Sometimes the best way to explore the watershed is by walking through it. If you venture into our local parks, you’ll discover steep-banked ravines and shale outcroppings, Adena Indian Mounds and historic cemeteries. During the spring, spectacular wildflowers bloom, and during the fall the woodlands explode into yellows, oranges, and reds. It’s all there waiting to be found.
If you want to adventure with us, check FLOW’s calendar for upcoming events!
Biking
Cyclist on trail © MORPC
The paved Olentangy Multi-use Trail runs along the Olentangy River 12.75 miles from Worthington south to Broad Street in downtown Columbus. The path supports a wide range of recreational opportunities along the river, all while offering the chance to enjoy fresh air and exercise in a unique, natural setting.
The Olentangy Trail
by flowadmin | Mar 15, 2011 | Recreation
Wounded heron © George C. Anderson
Check the events calendar for details about upcoming hikes near you. FLOW is also the sponsor of an atlas block in Delaware County for Ohio Breeding Bird Atlas II.
For more information:
The Ohio Ornithological Society: The Ohio Birding Site Guide
Columbus Audubon: Christmas Bird Count
Ohio Department of Natural Resources: Riparian Birds of Ohio Scenic Rivers
Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative
Birds at the Olentangy River Wetland Research Park
by flowadmin | Mar 8, 2011 | Recreation
Olentangy Water Trail
Kayaker, November 1998
© George C. Anderson
FLOW worked with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the City of Columbus to create the Olentangy Water Trail. The trail was created in 2007 with the passage by the Columbus City Council of a resolution sponsored by Council Member Priscilla Tyson. The resolution designated a water trail on the Olentangy River from Kenney Park to the confluence with the Scioto River. In 2013 the Olentangy River Water Trail was designated a state protected water trail by ODNR.
In addition to the water trail designation the City has created a detailed map to help boaters plan their routes and has installed large signs to warn boaters of hazards such as lowhead dams.
Olentangy River Water Trail Map and Guide
Ohio Water Trails
Current stream flow on the lower Olentangy River
USGS Real-Time Water Data for the Olentangy River near Delaware
Boating on the Olentangy River circa 1910.
Postcard of Lake House at Olentangy Park on the Olentangy River, circa 1910.
Boaters have long explored the Olentangy River’s many bends and heavily wooded reaches. The links below show canoeists on the Olentangy River, and the boat house at Olentangy Park. Olentangy Park was an amusement park in Clintonville that was open in the early part of the 20th century.
These links open historic photos at OhioHistory.org.
Olentangy Park Canoe Club
Canoeing on the Olentangy River in 1915
Regatta Day at Olentangy Park
