The Big and Little Darby Creeks represent one of the most biologically diverse aquatic systems in the Midwest, as well as one of the healthiest and most diverse of its size. The Watershed is among the top warm freshwater habitats in the nation and is home to over 100 species of fish, 43 species of mussels, the rare tiger salamander, green herons, gray foxes, Cooper's hawks, scarlet tanagers, and ruby-throated hummingbirds.

While the rural character of the watershed has helped maintain Big Darby Creek's exceptional water quality, changes in the landscape have begun to threaten the aquatic organisms. The three major threats facing Big Darby are suburbanization, deforestation of stream corridors, and agricultural runoff. Columbus and Central Ohio's increasing urbanization has resulted in harmful sewage and in toxic effects of stormwater runoff, as well as soil erosion from large construction sites.

More than sixty public agencies and private organizations are working on protection strategies for the watershed. These may incorporate techniques such as conservation development, enhanced stormwater management, conservation easements, land acquisition, soil conservation programs, reforestation, and stream and wetland restoration. Overall, these protection strategies may allow for economic progress while protecting the water quality.

Don’t miss this important community forum to find out how the environmental community, the development community and the City of Columbus and others are working together to ensure smart growth in the Big Darby Watershed.

Reserved table prices (includes sign with your company’s name): Table of 8 is $135 for CMC members, $180 for the public. Table of 10 is $170 for CMC members, $225 for the public.

Individual prices: $17 for CMC members, $22 for guests of CMC members & $25 for the public.

Parking is available in the Statehouse and City Center parking garages.