Public-Private Partnership Leads to Conservation Victory for Eastlake, Chagrin River

11 acres near the mouth of the Chagrin River will provide better fishing, boating and recreation access, and give a boost to nearby small businesses

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jared Saylor, jsaylor@wrlandconservancy.org; (440) 528-4178

EASTLAKE, OH (November 13, 2020) – A broad partnership between public, private and nonprofit organizations has led to the permanent conservation of an 11-acre property in Eastlake near the mouth of the Chagrin River. Future plans for this property -- to be called the Chagrin River Landing -- will create a prime steelhead fishing location and non-motorized boating access and create a natural space in the midst of an urban neighborhood.

Chagrin River Watershed Partners, the City of Eastlake and Western Reserve Land Conservancy took advantage of various public and private funding sources to acquire the property and plan for its restoration. The property, formerly operated as a commercial marina, will serve as a destination point and connector piece for the Chagrin River corridor and Lake Erie trail plan in Western Lake County. The project partners hope that this property will someday connect the missing link between Chagrin River Park and Eastlake’s Erie Road and Woodland Parks.

“This is one of those ideal situations where commercial and conservation needs are met, and everyone benefits,” said Brett Rodstrom, vice president of eastern field operations for Western Reserve Land Conservancy. “When we can partner with local organizations, city government and small businesses to conserve land and improve the community, it is a win for everyone.”

Future plans for the property include removing abandoned watercraft and a dilapidated structure, building a parking area, an improved non-motorized boat launch, treating and removing invasive species, installing walking trails and replanting native trees and wildflowers. Anglers will have better access to the Chagrin River bounty, kayakers and canoers will be able to launch into the river and eventually into Lake Erie, and local businesses will benefit from the increase in visitors to the area.

Chagrin River Landing will be a great spot for steelhead fishing, hiking, and non-motorized boating (photo courtesy of Western Reserve Land Conservancy)

“This is just what Eastlake and its residents need and deserve,” said Eastlake Mayor Dennis Morley. “The vision for this site was made possible through collaboration, partnership and determination. We could not have planned a better outcome than this and we are very excited to be a part of what this property will become in the future.”

This project generated significant support from various public and private funding sources due to the importance of protecting this vital piece of Chagrin River shoreline. The project was partially funded through the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund in the sum of $261,213 dollars. The City of Eastlake contributed $100,000 from a fund specifically designated for park acquisition.

Western Reserve Land Conservancy is a proud partner of the Arbor Day Foundation, which generously donated $20,000 towards the project, a gift made possible by partnership with Arbor Day Foundation and Enterprise Rent-A-Car Foundation.

First Energy Foundation contributed $27,000 and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History Trout Club contributed $7,000. Support for the project was also generously provided by gifts from John & Constance Dymtri, Lake Metroparks, Holden Arboretum, Lake County Port Authority, Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders and the sellers of the property, the Borac Family.

“The efforts of multiple partners and funders are coming together to protect and enhance this portion of the Chagrin River,” said Heather Elmer, executive director at Chagrin River Watershed Partners. “Keeping the Chagrin River clean and accessible is a priority for many local communities. This property gets us one step closer to ensuring the Chagrin River will be forever protected for future generations to enjoy.”

Jared Saylor | Director of Communications and Public Relations
Western Reserve Land Conservancy
3850 Chagrin River Rd.
Moreland Hills, OH 44022
440.528.4178 (direct) | 440.528.4150 (main) | 202.236.5855 (cell)