There will be more recreation opportunities at Little Beaver Creek in Columbiana County soon. 

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas and Preserves (DNAP) has secured a stretch of the Little Beaver Creek State Wild and Scenic River. 

The purchase will provide for the protection and conservation of important habitats along the waterway as well as provide recreational space.

"Protecting Ohio's wild and scenic rivers is important for so many reasons," ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. "Not only are we able to ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to paddle through some of Ohio's most tranquil landscape, we are also preserving the Little Beaver Creek, which feeds into larger waterways and provides safe, clean water for Ohioans."

The 29-acre parcel of land is located on the east side of the creek next to Beaver Creek State Forest lands.

The $26,000 purchase from the Beaver Creek United Presbyterian Church Camp will protect nearly one mile of streamside habitat and support a long-term connection between ODNR and the church camp.

"This sale strengthens a nearly half-century relationship between ODNR and The Beaver Creek United Presbyterian Church Camp," Reverend Tyler Bayless, President of the Board of Directors said. "We are thrilled that more people will be able to experience the beauty of this land along the creek that we have called home for more than 65 years."

The acquisition will provide a space for recreational activities including fishing, hiking, birdwatching and paddler access.

"This purchase is another great accomplishment in preserving one of the most pristine waterways in Ohio," Bradley Bosley, current Chair of the Little Beaver Creek Wild & Scenic River Advisory Council said. "This isolated piece of property surrounded by Beaver Creek State Forest ensures that another portion of Little Beaver Creek will be protected from any encroachment or development and will be enjoyed by future generations."

The purchase was made using donations to the Natural Areas Tax Checkoff fund.

Contributions to the fund are made by DNAP supporters on their State of Ohio Income Tax Returns and are used to protect some of Ohio's highest quality remaining natural areas, state dedicated nature preserves and riparian areas along the state's 15 designated wild, scenic, and recreational rivers.