Protecting over two miles of shoreline along the East Fork of the Little Miami

The East Fork is a major tributary of the Little Miami River—Ohio’s first state-designated river and a designated National Wild and Scenic River. The stretch of the East Fork flowing through the property’s boundaries is exceptionally clear, featuring riffle and run habitats, deep pools, a rocky bottom, and dense colonies of American water willow (Justicia americana) along its shores.

The property is almost entirely forested, with a canopy of 40-year-old oaks, hickories, maples, and walnuts. Although paw paws are the dominant native shrub in the understory, pressure from non-native invasive species is a threat to the forest’s health and biodiversity. By acquiring and preserving this forest and removing non-native invasive species, the Arc would help protect the abundance of native spring wildflowers that have been documented on the property, prevent future erosion and siltation from development and timber harvesting activities, and contribute to ongoing restoration efforts in the region. Notably, the East Fork Riparian Reserve—an initiative of the Clermont Soil and Water Conservation District, the Clinton County Park District, and other watershed partners—is located just 2 miles east (roughly 3.25 river miles upstream) of this prospective acquisition.

A preservation emergency

The Arc learned only recently that this property was about to be listed, and we were able to view it before it went public. The day after our visit, we submitted an offer to the seller, contingent on raising the necessary funds by November 30, 2026. If we are unsuccessful, the property will go to the open market and will likely be sold for private recreational use, hunting, or fishing.

Although grant funding won’t be available until late next year, our plan is to seeking grant funding to recirculate your donation into our Revolving Land Fund to help us act quickly on future property acquisitions. Follow this link to learn more about our Revolving Land Fund.

Your pledges are urgently needed to save the East Fork Little Miami Oxbow. Please click the "Pledge" button at the top of the screen to help us reach our fundraising goal. Pledges will be called in during the week of December 7, 2026, but only if we reach our goal by November 30.

Frequently Asked Questions

What expenses are covered by the campaign?

The campaign total includes the sale price, closing costs, and minimal costs to run this campaign - all of which is accomplished in-house with our Arc staff. Stewardship funds are not included in this campaign and will be raised separately. For more information on how the Arc stewards its preserves, follow this link, “Stewardship Forever.”

Can I make a donation instead of a pledge?
We are asking for pledges because we can’t be certain about the outcome of our fundraising, but based on past history, we are feeling confident that our supporters like you will come through! If you wish to make a donation, instead of a pledge, we have LOTS of active land projects needing funding to which we can apply your donation in the unlikely scenario our emergency campaign is unsuccessful. More projects will be added on as the season progresses. You could pick a favorite from among them, or tell us to apply your donation to wherever it is needed the most.

Who do I contact with my questions?
We would be honored to connect. Write us at arcpreserveinfo@gmail.com, or call at 937-365-1935. Our address is: Arc of Appalachia, 7660 Cave Road, Bainbridge, OH 45612