That separate but cooperative arrangement is reflected in the proposed division of the tract. Angela Manuszak of the Lucas County Soil and Water Conservation District said the organization would like to continue its education efforts on the land if it remains in public ownership. About 1,000 school children visit the site each year, and it is also used for research by University of Toledo students. Metropark and Lucas County officials caution that they have no specific plans for the tract. Speaking for the county, John Alexander, assistant county administrator, said the activities of the conservation district would appear to be an appropriate use for the site.
Parklands add incalculable value to the quality of life of any region.
No obvious downside exists to this far-sighted effort to preserve a piece of the rapidly disappearing open space in Lucas County. This article, which may be copyrighted, is reprinted with specific permission granted to Heidelberg College. Further reprint rights must be secured from the publisher.