Why do some bike trails go under water?

Fortunately, the Miami Conservancy District’s flood protection system keeps high river water levels in the river channel – and out of our communities. The managed lands that are part of this system are also available to locate the bike trails – so trail users don’t have to walk, run, or ride on the roads. MCD’s riverfront levees and preserved floodplains provide a unique venue for recreation such as bike trails, riverfront parks, and boat launches. But that also means these places store water to safely pass through the city during heavy rains.

Get wet…Get dirty…Get involved

By Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Ph.D., manager of watershed partnerships We all want clean and healthy rivers. How about helping to keep them that way? Join in the Clean Sweep of the Great Miami River! You never know what you'll find.  The oldest “piece of trash” was not trash at all. Volunteers discovered a skull cap …

A life jacket is a life saver

By Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Ph.D., manager of watershed partnerships Some people have plenty of excuses why they don’t wear a life jacket when paddling or boating, but there’s not a single good reason. According to a recent report from the U.S. Coast Guard: • Drowning was reported as the cause of death in 79 percent …

Cold-water immersion a springtime danger, too

By Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Ph.D., manager of watershed partnerships Many people think about the dangers of cold-water immersion when the temperatures begin to turn cooler in the fall. But springtime can create a false sense of security because while the air may be warm, the water may not be. And if you capsize, the “cold …

Water Stewardship Summary Report 2012-2019

MCD has released a new report on Water Stewardship that discusses the region's water challenges and how communities can take action and build resiliency to address those challenges.. Mike Ekberg, MCD manager of water resources monitoring and analysis, and Sarah Hippensteel Hall, manager of watershed partnerships, are currently visiting county commissions and key stakeholders to present …

Giving the Mad River Some Love

By Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Ph.D., manager of watershed partnerships Sometimes it feels like the Great Miami River gets all of the attention. But the Mad River, with its scenic vistas, abundant fishing and paddling, and new rock climbing access, offers fun and unique places that can’t be found on other rivers. If you have paddled …

Tait Station low dam removal begins today

By Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Ph.D., manager for watershed partnerships The project to remove the Tait Station low dam begins today. Here are the latest details on the project. Q: Why is the Tait Station low dam being removed? The low dam is being removed for several reasons: To improve the quality of the river and …

MCD – your “go to” for recreation maps, safety and more

By Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Ph.D., manager of watershed partnerships Spring weather has FINALLY arrived! You are probably thinking about getting outside to enjoy a bike ride on the trails or launch your kayak in the beautiful river. Before you go, did you know MCD provides maps, trail conditions, day trip recommendations, safety guidelines, and more? …