implementation strategic plan (nps is plan) · version 1.0 june, 2017 approved: august 2, 2017 ....

Nine-Element Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plan (NPS-IS plan) Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie Heldman Ditch- Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07)

Created by: The Olander Park System 3930 Sylvania Ave. Sylvania, OH 43560 Partners for Clean Streams, Inc. P.O. 203 Perrysburg, OH 43552 The Metroparks of the Toledo Area 5100 W. Central Ave. Ottawa Hills, OH 43615 The Nature Conservancy Oak Openings Region Project Office 10420 Old State Line Rd. Swanton, OH 43558

Version 1.0 June, 2017

Approved: August 2, 2017

HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 (04100001 03 07)

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Table of Contents Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................................ iv Chapter 1: Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Report Background ...................................................................................................................................... 2

1.2 Watershed Profile & History ........................................................................................................................ 2

1.3 Public Participation and Involvement .......................................................................................................... 4

Chapter 2: Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Watershed Characterization and Assessment Summary..... 6 2.1 Summary Watershed Characterization for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12...................................... 6

2.1.1 Physical and Natural Features ................................................................................................. 6

2.1.2 Land Use and Protection ......................................................................................................... 8

2.2 Summary of Biological Trends for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ................................................. 10

2.3 Summary of NPS Pollution Causes and Associated Sources for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 .... 15

2.4 Additional Information for Determining Critical Areas and Developing Implementation Strategies for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ....................................................................................................... 16

Chapter 3: Conditions & Restoration Strategies for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Areas ...... 17 3.1 Overview of Critical Areas .......................................................................................................................... 17

3.2 Critical Area 1: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Upper Reach of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ....................................................................................................................... 19

3.2.1 Detailed Characterization ..................................................................................................... 19

3.2.2 Detailed Biological Conditions .............................................................................................. 20

3.2.3 Detailed Causes and Associated Sources ............................................................................... 21

3.2.4 Outline Goals and Objectives for the Critical Area ................................................................. 22

Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 23

3.3 Critical Area 2: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Middle Reach of the Ottawa River of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ...................................................................................................................... 24





Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 28

3.4 Critical Area 3: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Ottawa Hills Floodplain Area of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ......................................................................................... 28





Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 33

3.5 Critical Area 4: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for Hill Ditch in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 .... 33






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Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 38

3.6 Critical Area 5: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Heldman Ditch and Tributaries in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ...................................................................................................................... 39





Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 43

Chapter 4: Projects and Implementation Strategy .......................................................................................... 44 4.1 Overview Tables and Project Sheets for Critical Areas .............................................................................. 44

4.2 Critical Area 1: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for the Upper Reach of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ....................................................................................................... 44

4.2.1 Critical Area 1: Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Table .................................... 45

4.2.2 Critical Area 1: Project Summary Sheet(s) ............................................................................. 47

4.3 Critical Area 2: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for the Middle Reach of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ....................................................................................................... 49



4.4 Critical Area 3: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for the Ottawa Hills Floodplain Area of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ............................................................................. 55



4.5 Critical Area 4: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for Hill Ditch in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ...................................................................................................................................................... 59



4.6 Critical Area 5: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for Heldman Ditch and Tributaries in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ...................................................................................................................... 65



Works Cited ...................................................................................................................................................... 69 Appendix A: Acronyms and Abbreviations ....................................................................................................... 72 Appendix B: Index of Tables and Figures ......................................................................................................... 74


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Acknowledgements The Olander Park System would like to thank the Ohio EPA for funding the writing of this NPS-IS plan with Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Program grant funds, as well as the Metroparks of the Toledo Area and The Nature Conservancy for contributing funds and input for this project. A special thank you to Cherie Blair, Ohio EPA; Rick Wilson, Ohio EPA; and Kristina Patterson, Partners for Clean Streams for providing clarifying information and a wealth of knowledge to the construction of this document, as well as the many partners who have come together to include projects and input for this HUC-12. Staff support from The Olander Park System was instrumental in the writing of this watershed plan. This NPS-IS plan will help direct projects to expeditiously address the nonpoint source impairments in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 of the Ottawa River watershed. This product or publication was financed in part or totally through a grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Environmental Protection Agency with the following funds: Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Program. The contents and views, including any opinions, findings, or conclusions or recommendations, contained in this product or publication are those of the authors and have not been subject to any Ohio Environmental Protection Agency or United States Environmental Protection Agency peer or administrative review and may not necessarily reflect the views of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency or the United States Environmental Protection Agency and no official endorsement should be inferred.

HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) 1

Chapter 1: Introduction The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) is located at the northern edge of Lucas County, Ohio (Figure 1). This watershed contains the subwatershed of the Ottawa River that contains the area immediately downstream from the Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (041000010 03 06) and immediately upstream of the Sibley Creek-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100010 03 08). The watershed is 28.11 square miles in size and contains the Ottawa River from RM 19.75 to RM 11.75 (Figure 2)1. Major tributaries in this HUC-12 include Heldman Ditch, Hill Ditch and Zink Ditch. Land use within the watershed is primarily developed with approximately 20% of the land use preserved as deciduous forest. While watershed plans could be all-inclusive inventories, this NPS-IS plan is developed to address nonpoint source restoration strategies. The U.S. EPA identified nine critical elements to include in strategic planning documents for impaired waters, and to ease implementation of projects addressing nonpoint source management, current federal and state nonpoint source funding opportunities require strategic watershed plans incorporate these nine key elements, concisely to HUC-12 watersheds. Partners within the larger Maumee Area of Concern (AOC) are collaborating to develop Nine-Element Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plans (NPS-IS plan) for all the HUC-12 watersheds within the Maumee AOC. This NPS-IS plan for the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is one of three being authored by The Olander Park System, in conjunction with Partners for Clean Streams (PCS), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and Metroparks of the Toledo Area.

1 It should be noted that the river mile map used in this document was created using data digitized by TMACOG (made available from the PCS DMDS online system) utilizing 2004 aerial photography and may not represent current stream lengths or correlate to other river mile data sets, notably they do not precisely align with Ohio EPA river mile delineations.

FIGURE 2: RIVER MILE MAP OF HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12.

FIGURE 1: LOCATION OF THE HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 WITHIN THE MAUMEE AOC.


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1.1 Report Background In 1987, the Maumee AOC was created under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. With this, a committee formed to develop the Maumee Remedial Action Plan (RAP). In 2006, the Maumee RAP committee created the Maumee Area of Concern (AOC) Stage 2 Watershed Restoration Plan. This document served to be a comprehensive clearinghouse for restoration of the watersheds within the Maumee AOC to meet requirements for many programs under the International Joint Commission, U.S. EPA and Ohio governmental agencies at the time (Partners for Clean Streams, 2016). As part of the Ottawa River watershed, the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 was included in this report. The Stage 2 Watershed Restoration Plan was submitted to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Ohio EPA; however, full endorsement was pending inclusion of a Coastal Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Measures section (Ohio EPA, 2009). Since programs have more recently aligned with the U.S. EPA’s nine-element plans, the inclusion of this section was abandoned, and focus is now present on updating this watershed plan by developing NPS-IS plans for the individual HUC-12 watersheds within the greater Maumee AOC. This NPS-IS plan for the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) is being written to address nonpoint source pollution issues specifically within its drainage area, as opposed to a comprehensive watershed plan for all issues found within the region. Removal of nonpoint source impairments in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is crucial to the attainment of designated aquatic life uses and further removal of beneficial use impairments not only within this sub-watershed, but also within the greater Maumee AOC. In this HUC-12, the Ottawa River is in partial attainment of its warmwater habitat aquatic life use at three sites due to sedimentation/siltation from urban runoff/storm sewers. In the tributaries, Heldman Ditch is listed in full attainment of its modified warmwater habitat aquatic life use, though this waterway is just marginally meeting it target values at one of its two sampling sites. Hill Ditch is in partial attainment at one sampling location and in nonattainment at the other, while Zink Ditch is listed in partial attainment of its recommended modified warmwater habitat designation. Like the Ottawa River in this HUC-12, the cause of impairment in all tributaries is sedimentation/siltation attributed to urban runoff/storm sewers. This NPS-IS plan will be used to strategically identify and outline key projects within the HUC-12 that address management of the nonpoint source issues affecting this watershed.

1.2 Watershed Profile & History The Ottawa River is 45 miles long with a drainage basin of 220.9 square miles; 146.7 of which are in Ohio (Maumee RAP, 2006). The Ottawa River begins with the 27.4-mile-long Tenmile Creek west from Ohio St. Rt. 109 and south from U.S. Rt. 20 in Fulton County. With an origin elevation of 755’, the stream falls an average of 4.9’/mi to an elevation of 620’ in the city of Sylvania, Lucas County. Tenmile Creek (81 mi2) joins North Tenmile Creek (42 mi2) in Sylvania. This confluence forms the Ottawa River. Just downstream of this confluence is where the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 begins. Ohio EPA identifies this juncture to be 19.75 miles upstream from the Ottawa River’s Lake Erie mouth (Figure 2). From this point the 19.75-mile-long Ottawa River maintains a similar grade (4.7’/mi) as it flows through the village of Ottawa Hills, the main campus of the University of Toledo, and the city of Toledo to empty into Maumee Bay and Lake Erie in Monroe County (Ohio EPA, 2015).

The Ottawa River watershed can be divided into three major reaches (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 2009). The upstream Tenmile Creek reach from the headwaters to the City of Sylvania (RM 19.75) has low banks (15 to 25 feet) and is relatively stable. The middle reach lies between RM 19.75 and 5.0 and is characterized by high banks (35 to 45+ feet) that are intermixed with distinct floodplains. Bedrock can be found in the channel within Wildwood Preserve Metropark in this reach. The lower reach is from RM 5.0 to the mouth and is under backwater influence from Maumee Bay. The entire Ottawa River watershed is located within the Huron-Erie Lake Plains (HELP) ecoregion, specifically the Lake Plain, which is a broad, fertile, nearly flat plain formed from retreating


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glacial lakes, characterized by slowly-draining silt and clay soils. Large portions of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 include remnant sections of the ecologically important Oak Openings ecosystem (Figure 3).

The HUC-12 is immediately downstream of the Gale Run-Swan Creek HUC-12 (04100009 07 03), containing the main stem of Swan Creek, and the Lower Blue Creek HUC-12 (04100009 08 02), containing the downstream reach of Blue Creek. The HUC-12 is located within the Huron-Erie Lake Plains (HELP) ecoregion, specifically the Lake Plain, which is a broad, fertile, nearly flat plain formed from retreating glacial lakes, characterized by slowly-draining silt and clay soils. It is important to note that portions of the HUC-12 include or are buffered by small, remnant sections of the ecologically important Oak Openings ecosystem (Figure 3).

Oak Openings A notable portion of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is part of the globally significant Oak Openings Region. The Oak Openings is a uniquely diverse region that spans six counties in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan to cover 130 square miles. Sandy dunes and swales, formerly the shoreline of historic Lake Warren, sit atop a layer of clay, which retains water throughout the year. Where sands are deep, oak savannas and sand barrens persist. Wet prairies and forested wetland communities dominate areas of shallow sand and high water tables. This combination of geology and hydrology results in the presence of globally rare wetland and upland habitats. This area, representative of a former beach, reflects historically higher lake levels in ancestral Lake Erie near the end of the last ice age. As water levels dropped, the sand was reworked to form sand dunes over broad areas. Also at about this time, rivers began to dig themselves into the landscape as glacial waters drained away (The Nature Conservancy, 2016). Early pioneers approached the Oak Openings region after days of trekking through the sticky mud and dense woods of the Great Black Swamp. The high sandy dunes and dry open woodland appealed to them as a land for farming; however, the sandy soils did not provide easy yields. Today, over 70% of

FIGURE 3: THE HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 IN

RELATION TO THE HISTORIC OAK OPENINGS REGION AND HISTORIC

GREAT BLACK SWAMP.

FIGURE 4: PRAIRIE RESTORATION AT THE OLANDER

PARK SYSTEM’S SYLVAN PRAIRIE PARK. PHOTO

COURTESY OF THE OLANDER PARK SYSTEM.


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the Oak Openings land has been developed or is in agricultural production, leaving less than 30% in natural cover. Natural floodplain corridors occur between the Oak Openings region and Lake Erie along the Ottawa River. The Oak Openings region is known for its rare and unique flora; five of its six natural plant communities are considered globally rare (Figure 4). Since the first rare plant list, Lucas County has led the state with more rare plant species than any other Ohio county, mainly due to the Oak Openings region. Due to the sensitivity of its globally rare species, conservation actions should be targeted to efficiently protect the unique plants and animals (The Nature Conservancy, 2016).

1.3 Public Participation and Involvement Watershed planning and restoration plans should include involvement from a diverse group of entities, including governmental agencies, private businesses, academia, non-profit groups, neighborhood organizations and the public at large. Many partners have been working over time in the Ottawa River watershed towards ecological restoration and water quality goals. Several watershed groups have been involved with the Ottawa River watershed, including ClearWater and the Maumee RAP. In 2007, after working under the umbrella of Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG) for almost twenty years, the Maumee RAP merged with Partners for Clean Streams, and ClearWater was dissolved. Most restoration efforts in the Ottawa River watershed are now led by or closely partnered with Partners for Clean Streams. Nonprofit groups, such as the Metroparks of the Toledo Area, the Nature Conservancy, the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments, governmental agencies, academia, citizen action groups and watershed organizations have been interested and involved in the improvement and protection of the Ottawa River watershed. Previous projects have focused on remediation of brownfields and contaminated sediments in the lower reaches of the river, as well as the protection, restoration, and enhancement of habitat and stream health throughout the entire watershed. Four partner agencies from the Green Ribbon Initiative pooled resources to leverage 319(h) Nonpoint Source Program monies to fund a planner to write NPS-IS plans for three contiguous watersheds located in the Oak Openings Region. Employed by The Olander Park System, the planner worked closely with staff from The Nature Conservancy, Partners for Clean Streams and the Metroparks of the Toledo Area to create this NPS-IS plan for the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. The Green Ribbon Initiative is a shared vision of public and private organizations, landowners and individuals working to “preserve, enhance and restore critical natural areas in the Oak Openings Region of Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan”. The Olander Park System (TOPS) serves Sylvania, Ohio and the surrounding communities with seven parks. TOPS strives to preserve and enhance the educational, historical, natural, and recreational benefits of the Sylvania region through parklands, family and community events, conservation and preservation techniques, and environmentally friendly practices. TOPS is one of the principal authors of this NPS-IS plan for the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. Partners for Clean Streams (PCS) works directly with citizens, businesses, governmental agencies, and other non-profit organizations who take local ownership in their rivers, streams, and lakes. PCS strives for clean, clear and safe waters by connecting organizational and individual partners through educational opportunities, conservation programs, stream clean-ups and outreach programs for the benefit of local and regional water in Northwest Ohio. PCS also works as the facilitating organization for the Maumee Area of Concern Advisory Committee (MAAC). Through the MAAC, a diverse assortment of interested citizens, government agencies, businesses, and other non- profit organizations collaborate and plan together to meet the broader goals set for Areas of Concern (AOCs) under the International Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. The AOC Program in Ohio is under direction of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency with guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. PCS is one


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of the principal advisors to TOPS in completing this NPS-IS plan for the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC- 12. Additional key partners within this HUC-12 and the greater Ottawa River watershed include: Metroparks of the Toledo Area, The Nature Conservancy, Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG), the University of Toledo’s Department of Environmental Sciences, Lucas County Soil and Water Conservation District, Lucas County Sustainability Commission, and the cities of Sylvania and Toledo. Chapters 1, 2 and 3 were primarily authored by TOPS using the Biological and Water Quality Study of Tenmile Creek and the Ottawa River, 2011, Ohio EPA Technical Report EAS/2014-06-06 (Ohio EPA, 2015). Project information for Chapter 4 was compiled from the on-line Maumee AOC Data Management and Delisting System (DMDS) (Partners for Clean Streams, 2017) and by collaborative meetings with stakeholders and community partners.


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Chapter 2: Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Watershed Characterization and Assessment Summary

2.1 Summary Watershed Characterization for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 2.1.1 Physical and Natural Features The Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10 (04100001 03) is comprised of nine HUC-12 watersheds, draining an area of 146.52 square miles in Ohio (Figure 5). This document focuses on the #07 unit of the Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10—Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07). Located midway through the Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10, this subwatershed includes the Ottawa River, from its formation between the confluence of Tenmile Creek (Tenmile Creek HUC-12, 04100001 03 06) with North Tenmile Creek (North Tenmile Creek HUC-12, 04100001 03 05), occurring at ~RM 19.75, near downtown Sylvania, to ~RM 11.75, which marks the confluence of Heldman Ditch with the Ottawa River. The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is directly upstream to the Sibley Creek-Ottawa River HUC-12, where the Ottawa River follows the remainder of its course through the city of Toledo to empty into Maumee Bay and Lake Erie in Monroe County, Michigan (Maumee RAP, 2006). Sizable tributaries in this watershed include Heldman Ditch, Hill Ditch, and Zink Ditch.

The Ottawa River watershed is wholly contained within the Huron-Erie Lake Plains (HELP) ecoregion. U.S. EPA describes this region as “Fine, poorly-drained, water-worked glacial till and lacustrine sediment; also coarser end moraine and beach ridge deposits” (Maumee RAP, 2006). In the upstream portion of the Ottawa River watershed (Headwaters Tenmile Creek, Prairie Ditch, and Tenmile Creek HUC-12s), agricultural fields lie on Lake Plain till deposits overlying Devonian bedrock. Urban and suburban developments throughout the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are situated in the Sand Plains of the Oak Openings region atop a Devonian/Silurian base. In the furthest downstream segments of the Ottawa River watershed, urban developments lie on Lake Plain lacustrine fine sand, silt and clay deposits over Silurian bedrock. Bedrock in this area is dense; soils are level to gently sloping and are very poorly to somewhat poorly drained throughout the basin (Ohio EPA, 2015). A protected expanse of land surrounds the Ottawa River from ~RM 17.50 to RM 15.25 as it flows through Camp Miakonda, a small portion of the Stranahan Arboretum and Wildwood Preserve Metropark (Table 1). Camp Miakonda is a 160-acre facility that recently served as a large-scale site for stream restoration along the Ottawa River. The $1.36 million project, completed in 2014, included the restoration of 10 wetland and 30 upland habitat acres and bank stabilization of 1200 linear feet of the Ottawa River (Partners for Clean Streams, 2012). Camp Miakonda was also the site of a dam removal project in 2003. Since its removal, and the removal of another dam further downstream near Secor Road in 2007, fish diversity and fish population distributions have improved throughout this segment of the Ottawa River (Ohio EPA, 2015).

FIGURE 5: HUC-12 SUBWATERSHEDS WITHIN THE OTTAWA RIVER-FRONTAL LAKE ERIE HUC-10. (MODIFIED FROM

PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017)


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TABLE 1: PROTECTED LANDS IN THE HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12.

Metroparks Toledo Wildwood Preserve 493

acres Nature preserve with trails bordering the Ottawa River and prairie community

Toledo Botanical Gardens

60 acres

Display gardens and relevant plant collections, also includes a recent stream and wetland restoration on Hill Ditch

University of Toledo Stranahan Arboretum

47 acres

Cultivated ornamental trees, rolling lawns, natural woods, ponds, wetlands and prairie

Erie Shores Council, Boy Scouts of America Camp Miakonda 160

acres Wooded area along the Ottawa River, also includes wetland and instream habitat restoration on the Ottawa River

Wildwood Preserve Metropark is a 493-acre expanse of land gifted from the Stranahan family to the Metroparks of the Toledo Area (Metroparks of the Toledo Area, 2017). This widely popular park is bisected by the Ottawa River and has sandy soils indicative of the Oak Openings region (Figure 6). The Stranahan Arboretum is a 47-acre facility that serves as a research and education site for the University of Toledo’s Department of Environmental Sciences (University of Toledo, 2017). The Ottawa River flows through Arboretum property on a parcel located to the south of Sylvania Avenue and the main Arboretum campus. The Toledo Botanical Gardens also serves as a recent site for stream restoration on Hill Ditch, a large tributary to Heldman Ditch. Two lowhead dams were removed and natural stream channel design principles were incorporated to restore flow within Hill Ditch, create aquatic habitat and restore riparian areas and wetlands (Toledo Botanical Gardens, 2017). Smaller sections of protected land are scattered throughout the watershed (Figure 7). Specific landmarks and features in this watershed include:

ProMedica Flower Hospital

Camp Miakonda

Wildwood Preserve Metropark

University of Toledo's Stranahan Arboretum

University Parks Trail

Toledo Botanical Gardens

Toledo Memorial Park (cemetery)

Several schools with large athletic complexes (Stranahan Elementary, Sylvania Southview High School, Ottawa Hills High School, McTigue Jr. High and Rogers High School)

Interstate 475/23 runs through the middle portion of this HUC-12

Golf courses (Sylvania Country Club, Inverness Country Club)

FIGURE 6: THE OTTAWA RIVER ENTERING WILDWOOD

PRESERVE METROPARK. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE

OLANDER PARKS SYSTEM.


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Dense commercial/business and residential housing

Small parcels of row-crop agriculture in the southeast portion of the HUC-12 No NPDES permits are currently active in this watershed. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has noted significant nonpoint pollution issues associated with erosion and sedimentation. Sediments deposited in drainage and stream channels must be removed for stream functionality and water quality improvements, and wetlands that filter runoff and trap sediment and associated nutrients/contaminants need to be conserved and restored where possible. Multiple agencies have recognized the importance of 1) restored hydrology and flow regimes, 2) conservation of wetlands, floodplains, and vegetative buffers, and 3) the importance of sediment reduction programs to decrease flood peaks and sediment transport to Lake Erie (U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, 2009). In addition to nonpoint source pollution, the Ottawa River has been plagued by toxins from former industrial sites and landfills. In 1991, a “Do Not Eat” fish advisory was put into effect for fish caught in the entire Ottawa River from Main St. in Sylvania to its mouth. After millions of dollars in restoration and remediation projects, the strict, comprehensive fish advisory was replaced with less restrictive recommendations in early 2017. With continued progress, officials estimate it will be 2030 before body contact with the Ottawa River will be safe again and fish consumption can be completely restored (Henry, 2017).

2.1.2 Land Use and Protection Land use characteristics in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, and potentially in the upstream, adjacent watersheds of the Tenmile Creek and North Tenmile Creek HUC-12s, have an impact on stream quality (Figure 8). Directly upstream, the Tenmile Creek HUC-12 marks a transition zone from the highly agricultural headwater sections of the Ottawa River basin to more suburban and urban developments. Continuing this urbanized trend, the majority of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is developed (78%), containing housing developments and businesses/industries within the city of Sylvania, Sylvania Township, Ottawa Hills, Springfield Township, and the city of Toledo.

FIGURE 7: PUBLICLY OWNED PARKS AND PROTECTED LANDS IN THE HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER

HUC-12 (PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017).


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Approximately 17% of the watershed is forested, mainly in protected public lands. Very little agricultural land is present in this stretch of the Ottawa River; however, small parcels of row-crop lands are scattered throughout the southeastern portion of the HUC-12. Detailed breakdowns of land use types in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 and the adjacent upstream watersheds that may have an influence on the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are also listed for reference in Table 2 (Homer, 2015).

TABLE 2: LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS FOR SELECTED WATERSHEDS WITHIN THE OTTAWA RIVER-FRONTAL LAKE ERIE HUC-10 (HOMER, 2015).

Cover classification

% watershed

area

Area (mi2)


% watershed

area

Area (mi2)


% watershed

area

Area (mi2)

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07)

Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 06)

North Tenmile Creek HUC-12* (04100001 03 05)

Barren 0.76% 0.21 Barren 6.17% 0.69 Barren 0.00% 0.00

Crop 0.05% 0.01 Crop 19.05% 2.14 Crop 6.22% 0.06

Hay/Pasture 1.63% 0.46 Hay/Pasture 0.75% 0.08 Hay/Pasture 0.43% <0.01

Deciduous Forest

17.11% 4.81 Deciduous Forest

8.55% 0.96 Deciduous

Forest 10.11% 0.10

Evergreen Forest

0.30% 0.09 Evergreen Forest

0.01% 0.00 Evergreen

Forest 0.00% 0.00

Mixed Forest 0.00% 0.00 Mixed Forest 0.02% 0.00 Mixed Forest 0.00% 0.00

Herbaceous 0.39% 0.11 Herbaceous 2.35% 0.26 Herbaceous 1.54% 0.02

Herbaceous Wetlands

0.16% 0.05 Herbaceous Wetlands

0.14% 0.02 Herbaceous

Wetlands 0.00% 0.00

Woody Wetlands

0.86% 0.24 Woody Wetlands

1.41% 0.16 Woody

Wetlands 0.32% <0.01

Shrub/Scrub 0.00 % 0.00 Shrub/Scrub 0.00 % 0.00 Shrub/Scrub 0.22% <0.01

Developed, High Intensity

4.41 1.24 Developed, High Intensity

2.29 0.26 Developed,

High Intensity 5.10% 0.05

Developed, Medium Intensity

10.01% 2.81 Developed, Medium Intensity

8.91% 1.00 Developed,

Medium Intensity

8.78% 0.09

Developed, Low Intensity

34.84% 9.79 Developed, Low Intensity

33.04% 3.71 Developed,

Low Intensity 32.70% 0.34

Developed, Open Space

28.86% 8.11 Developed, Open Space

16.36% 1.83 Developed, Open Space

34.58% 0.36

Water 0.61% 0.17 Water 0.96% 0.11 Water 0.00% 0.00

Total 100.00% 28.11 Total 100.00% 11.21 Total 100.00% 1.03*

*Reflective of only the portion of the North Tenmile Creek HUC-12 within Ohio state boundaries.

FIGURE 8: LAND USE IN THE OTTAWA RIVER-FRONTAL LAKE ERIE HUC-10.


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Approximately 98% of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is located within the NPDES regulated Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (Figure 9). One Phase I MS4 permit (City of Toledo) exists throughout this watershed, along with several Phase II municipalities and agencies, including Lucas County, the City of Sylvania, and Sylvania Township. These storm water systems do not connect with water treatment systems; therefore, oil, grease, pesticides, herbicides, dirt and grit are carried directly to waterways and have a high potential to negatively impact water quality (Ohio EPA, 2009). The City of Toledo implemented the Toledo Waterways Initiative, a long-term, 18-year project to reduce CSOs, improve storm sewer systems and reduce water pollution in the Maumee River, Ottawa River and Swan Creek waterways (Toledo Waterways Initiative, 2017).

2.2 Summary of Biological Trends for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Ohio EPA sampled the entire Ottawa River watershed in 2011, with the exception of the lower nine miles of the mainstem Ottawa River, as documented in the Biological and Water Quality Study of Tenmile Creek and the Ottawa River, 2011, Technical Report EAS/2014-06-06. This report will serve as the Technical Support Document for the Ottawa River TMDL study, once complete. This document was used extensively in the preparation of this Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie: Heldmand Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 NPS-IS Plan. Habitat and biological communities in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 will be sampled again as part of routine state monitoring in the summer of 2026. In 2011, the aquatic life use for the Ottawa River was confirmed as warmwater habitat (WWH) aquatic life use. In the tributaries within this watershed, Heldman Ditch was confirmed as modified warmwater habitat (MWH), Zink Ditch was recommended for MWH designation and Hill Ditch was recommended for MWH designation, an upgrade from its previous designation as a limited resource waterway (LRW) (Ohio EPA, 2015). A summary of the sample locations and their biological status in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are provided in Table 3. For reference, sites immediately upstream and downstream from the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are also included. Figure 10 details sampling points and attainment status. Though habitat scores were generally high overall, silty substrates, high embeddedness and low sinuosity are common habitat attributes throughout the watershed. Good pool depth was present; however, the sparseness of functional cover and absence of a fast current often limited fish and/or bug populations (Ohio EPA, 2015). In general, aquatic communities throughout the Tenmile Creek and Ottawa River watershed were dominated by pollution tolerant species adapted to extremes in dissolved oxygen availability, nutrient pulses, water temperature and flow (Ohio EPA, 2015).

FIGURE 9: TOLEDO URBANIZED AREA AS DEFINED BY THE 2010 CENSUS.


11

* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). a The MIwb (Modified Index of well-being) is not applicable to headwater sites (<20mi2). b Narrative evaluation used in lieu of ICI (Good; MG=Marginally Good; Fair; L Fair=Low Fair; Poor; VP=Very Poor). W Wading site. H Headwater site, MIwb is not applicable. B Boat site. S IBI, QHEI and ICI data from 2014 sampling event, Ohio EPA Division of Surface Water (Partners for Clean Streams-DMDS, 2017). T IBI, MIwb, QHEI and ICI data from 2014 sampling event, Ohio EPA Division of Surface Water (Partners for Clean Streams-DMDS, 2017).

TABLE 3: OVERALL BIOLOGICAL INDICES SCORES FOR SELECTED SITES IN HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 AND

ADJACENT WATERSHEDS (OHIO EPA, 2015; PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017).

2 The TSD reports this site in Full Attainment; however, for the purposes of this NPS-IS plan, the sampling location at RM 11.8 is considered in Partial Attainment due to both fish indices falling near the lower end of the nonsignificant departure range.

RM (Drain. area mi2) IBI/ MIwba ICIb Status QHEI Location

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (WWH) (Ottawa River, beginning at first site downstream from

confluence of Tenmile Creek and North Tenmile Creek)

19.5 (124.6)w 37/ 6.3* 34 Partial 78.0 Harroun Road

16.8 (127.6)w 28ns/7.5 30ns Full 68.5 Sylvania Avenue

14.4 (131.6)w 34/5.6* 28* Non 59.3 Edgehill Road

12.2 (133.0)w 30ns/8.3 30ns Full 67.0 Bancroft Street

11.8 (133.0)w 29ns/7.0ns 36 Partial2 59.3 Ust. (Old)

Secor Dam

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (MWH) (Heldman Ditch)

2.7 (8.4)H 22/- Fair Full 39.0 Hill Avenue

0.2 (21.0)w 32/7.5 Fair Full 59.0 Edgevale Road

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (recommended MWH) (Hill Ditch)

2.6 (3.5)H 24S/- (Poor*)S Non 51.0S Carriage Drive

2.2 (6.3)H 20S/- Low FairS Partial 60.8S Reynolds Road

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (recommended MWH) (Zink Ditch)

0.7 (3.5)H 38/- Low Fair* Partial 43.5 Dorr Street

Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 06) (WWH) (Tenmile Creek, first site upstream of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12)

0.5 (81.0)w 39/7.4 38 Full 77.0 Silica Drive

North Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 05) (WWH) (North Tenmile Creek, first site upstream of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12)

0.1 (42.1)w 28ns/7.9 Fair* Partial 54.0 Monroe Street

Sibley Creek-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 08) (WWH) (Ottawa River, first site downstream of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12)

11.67 (154)w 32T/(6.9ns)T (30ns)T Full 66.5T Secor Road


12

Fishes (Modified Index of Well-Being [MIwb] & Index of Biotic Integrity [IBI]) The performance of the fish community in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is affected by the absence of species with narrow niches (Ohio EPA, 2015). Of the five mainstem Ottawa River sites, all five attained target values (or fell within the nonsignificant departure range) for IBI scores. Two of five did not reach targeted MIwb scores. Pollution tolerant species were commonly collected in the Heldman Ditch–Ottawa River watershed; however, moderately intolerant species such as the shorthead redhorse, golden redhorse and logperch were also found at many of the mainstem locations. Overall, the fish community appeared to be adjusting to the removal of the dams at Secor Rd. and Camp Miakonda, with the observation of species such as northern pike being well distributed and more prolific throughout the watershed (Ohio EPA, 2015). Fish collections were more species-rich downstream from the Secor Rd. sampling location, but collections were twice as abundant upstream from this location. Collections in the Ottawa River mainstem were generally limited to pollution intolerant species. The total number of native species limited all mainstem Ottawa River sample scores (Ohio EPA, 2015). Increased siltation and changing habitat conditions impacted fish performance in this reach of the Ottawa River. Likewise, aquatic assemblages in the Heldman, Hill and Zink Ditch tributaries were consistent with fair habitat conditions (mean QHEI=52.5, n=5). Fish communities achieved target IBI scores (MIwb not applicable to headwater sites) of the

FIGURE 10: SAMPLING LOCATIONS AND ATTAINMENT STATUS IN SELECTED LOCATIONS IN THE HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA

RIVER WATERSHED AND ADJACENT WATERSHEDS.


13

MWH designation in all five tributary sampling locations, with Zink Ditch achieving the highest IBI score throughout the 2011 study area (Ohio EPA, 2015).3 Macroinvertebrates (Invertebrate Community Index [ICI]) Macroinvertebrate assemblages in the Ottawa River varied in relation to different geologic settings, associated flow and changing stream habitat conditions (Ohio EPA, 2015). In the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, marginally good ICI scores were recorded (mean ICI=32, n=5). Baetid mayflies were the predominant species in this reach where seven EPT taxa were usually present (Ohio EPA, 2015). Despite achievement of moderate ICI scores in this reach, the resulting low numbers of EPT taxa suggest limiting effects on the macroinvertebrate communities are still present, likely caused by silty and highly embedded substrates. Heldman, Hill and Zink Ditch are maintained waterways for storm water flow; thus, silty substrates with filled interstitial voids are common. This degraded habitat quality inhibits the macroinvertebrate communities in these waterways. Performance in these tributaries measures between fair and poor, with Hill Ditch receiving the poorest macroinvertebrate score in the entire 2011 study area (Ohio EPA, 2015). Habitat (via Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index [QHEI]) Ohio EPA sampling crews documented various water quality and habitat attributes during the QHEI assessment in the summer of 2011 (Table 4). Habitat attributes (i.e. silty substrates, low sinuosity, etc.), related to urbanization are likely impacting the sampling locations within the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. Attributes in the adjacent upstream watersheds (e.g., channelized waters, silt/muck substrates, etc.) to the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are likely also contributing to the partial attainment status of the watershed. In the uppermost sampling location of the Ottawa River (Harroun Rd.- RM 19.5), bedrock and functional cover contributed to the highest habitat score (QHEI= 78) and the highest IBI score (IBI=37) in the mainstem (Ohio EPA, 2015). Though habitat scores still fell within the range associated with the attainment of WWH standards (QHEI ≥60), habitat and IBI scores generally declined as the dominant land use changed to dense residential areas. In the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, the forested corridor between Harroun Rd. (RM 19.5) and Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) generally flanked better stream habitat conditions (Ohio EPA, 2015). Limiting effects are still in place for the habitat in this watershed. With the exception of the Harroun Rd. (RM 19.5) sampling location, mainstem Ottawa River sites all exhibited heavy/moderate silt cover, low sinuosity, high embeddedness and high riffle embeddedness. In 2011, Ohio EPA also noted that smaller streams in the watershed exhibited influential attributes inconsistent with attainment of warmwater habitat designations. Found mostly in residential areas, these smaller streams lacked sinuosity, were entrenched, and were deficient in riffle development. Habitat scores in Heldman Ditch were variable. At the most upstream location near Hill Ave. (RM 2.7), the habitat score was low (QHEI=39), even for MWH expectations. Habitat attributes at Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) scored much higher (QHEI=59), due to a faster current, boulder/cobble substrate and developed cover. For MWH expectations, habitat scores at both Hill Ditch sampling locations were relatively high in 2011 (QHEI= 64.5 at RM 2.6 and 55.0 at RM 2.2), but changed in response to the project implemented at Toledo Botanical Gardens, as recorded in the 2014 sampling event (QHEI= 51.0 and 60.8, respectively). Habitat in Zink Ditch was marginally meeting expected habitat scores for MWH-designated streams (QHEI=43.5).

3 Based upon 2011 data for Heldman Ditch and Zink Ditch, 2014 data for Hill Ditch.


14

TABLE 4: QUALITATIVE HABITAT EVALUATION INDEX (QHEI) MATRIX WITH WARMWATER HABITAT (WWH) AND

MODIFIED WARMWATER (MWH) ATTRIBUTE TOTALS IN SELECTED OTTAWA RIVER WATERSHEDS (OHIO EPA, 2015 AND

PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017).

Key QHEI Components

WWH Attributes MWH Attributes

High Influence Moderate Influence

Riv

er M

ile

QH

EI S

core

Gra

die

nt

(ft/

mi)

No

t C

han

nel

ized

or

Rec

ove

red

Bo

uld

er/C

ob

ble

/Gra

vel S

ub

stra

tes

Silt

Fre

e Su

bst

rate

s

Go

od

/Exc

elle

nt

Dev

elo

pm

en

t

Mo

der

ate/

Hig

h S

inu

osi

ty

Exte

nsi

ve/M

od

erat

e C

ove

r

Fast

Cu

rren

t/Ed

die

s

Low

/No

rmal

Em

bed

de

dn

ess

Max

Dep

th >

40

cm

Low

/No

rmal

Rif

fle

Emb

edd

edn

ess

WW

H A

ttri

bu

tes

Ch

ann

eliz

ed/N

o R

eco

very

Silt

/Mu

ck S

ub

stra

tes

No

Sin

uo

sity

Spar

se/N

o C

ove

r

Max

Dep

th <

40

cm

Hi-

Infl

uen

ce M

od

ifie

d A

ttri

bu

tes

Rec

ove

rin

g C

han

nel

Hea

vy/M

od

erat

e Si

lt C

ove

r

San

d S

ub

stra

te (

Bo

at)

Har

dp

an S

ub

stra

te O

rigi

n

Fair

/Po

or

Dev

elo

pm

ent

Low

Sin

uo

sity

On

ly 1

or

2 C

ove

r ty

pes

Inte

rme

dia

te/P

oo

r P

oo

ls

No

Fas

t C

urr

ent

Hig

h/M

od

erat

e Em

bed

ded

nes

s

Hig

h/M

od

erat

e ri

ffle

Em

be

dd

edn

ess

No

Rif

fle

M.I

. MW

M A

ttri

bu

tes

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (WWH) (Ottawa River)/ (MWH) (Heldman Ditch, Hill Ditch, Zink Ditch)

Ottawa River

19.5 78.0 9.26 • • • • • • 6 0 • • • • 4

16.8 68.5 2.24 • • • • • 5 • 1 • • • • • • 6

14.4 59.3 2.00 • • 2 • 1 • • • • • • 6

12.2 67.0 3.79 • • • • • • 6 • 1 • • • • • 5

11.8 59.3 3.79 • • • • 4 • • 2 • • • • • • 6

Heldman Ditch

2.7 39.0 10.42 • • 2 • • 2 • • • • • • • • 8

0.2 59.0 13.51 • • • • • • 6 0 • • • • • 5

Hill Ditch (2014 data)

2.6 51 15.63 • • • • • • • 7 • 1 • • • • • 5

2.2 60.8 12.82 • • • • • 5 • • 2 • • • • 4

Zink Ditch

0.7 43.5 11.63 • 2 • • • 3 • • • • • • 6

Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 06) (WWH) (Tenmile Creek)

Tenmile Creek

0.5 77.0 14.29 • • • • • • • • 8 0 • • 2

North Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 05) (WWH) (North Tenmile Creek)

North Tenmile Creek

0.1 54.0 12.50 • • • • 4 • • 2 • • • • • 5


15

2.3 Summary of NPS Pollution Causes and Associated Sources for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 As listed in the 2016 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report, Ohio EPA has determined that the biological impairments in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are from heavy sedimentation/siltation caused by urban runoff and storm sewers (Table 5). TABLE 5: CAUSES AND SOURCES OF NPS IMPAIRMENTS FOR SELECTED OTTAWA RIVER-FRONTAL LAKE ERIE HUC-10

SAMPLING LOCATIONS (OHIO EPA, 2015).

RM (Drain. area mi2) [w =wading site,

H=headwater site]

Primary Cause(s) Primary Source(s) Status Location

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (WWH) (Ottawa River, beginning at first site downstream from confluence of Tenmile Creek and North Tenmile Creek)

19.5 (124.6)w Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Partial Harroun Road

16.8 (127.6)w -- -- Full Sylvania Avenue

14.4 (131.6)w Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Non Edgehill Road

12.2 (133.0)w -- -- Full Bancroft

Street

11.8 (133.0)w Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers4 Partial Ust. (Old)

Secor Dam

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (MWH) (Heldman Ditch)

2.7 (8.4)H -- -- Full Hill Avenue

0.2 (21.0)w -- -- Full Edgevale Road

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (recommended MWH) (Hill Ditch)

2.6 (3.5)H Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Non5 Carriage Drive

2.2 (6.3)H Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Partial5 Reynolds Road

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) (recommended MWH) (Zink Ditch)

0.7 (3.5)H Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Partial Dorr Street

Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 06) (WWH) (Tenmile Creek, first site upstream of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12)

0.5 (81.0)w -- -- Full Silica Drive

North Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 05) (WWH) (North Tenmile Creek, first site upstream of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12)

0.1 (42.1)w Low flow alteration Crop production with subsurface drainage

Full Monroe Street

Sibley Creek-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 08) (WWH) (Ottawa River, first site downstream of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12)

11.67 (154)w -- -- Full5 Secor Road

4 Cause and source assumed from surrounding land use and upstream and downstream cause/source relationships. 5 Attainment based upon 2014 sampling data.


16

2.4 Additional Information for Determining Critical Areas and Developing Implementation Strategies for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Several organizations and agencies, including Metroparks of the Toledo Area, The Nature Conservancy, Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments, Maumee Area of Concern Committee, and Partners for Clean Streams focus on improving habitat and water quality within the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. Documents and/or plans created by these organizations were used as supplemental information to prepare this NPS-IS plan and are referenced in the Works Cited section, as appropriate. Assessment data from the 2011 TMDL sampling event and data referenced in the 2016 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report were used in the creation of this NPS-IS plan (Ohio EPA, 2015; Ohio EPA, 2016). Additional Level 3 data were obtained from the Partners for Clean Streams Data Management Delisting System and were denoted, where applicable.


17

Chapter 3: Conditions & Restoration Strategies for Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Areas

3.1 Overview of Critical Areas

Overall, ten sampling sites are located in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, of which four reach full attainment status (Figure 11). Five sampling sites are located in the Ottawa River (two Full Attainment, two Partial Attainment and one Non-Attainment), two are located in Heldman Ditch (both Full Attainment), two are located in Hill Ditch (one Partial Attainment and one Non-Attainment) and one is located in Zink Ditch (Partial Attainment). Land use within the watershed is largely urban, and causes and sources of impairment were determined to be the same at each sampling location (Ohio EPA, 2015). Critical Areas were developed to include the highest impact areas of urban runoff and likely areas for potential projects that would remedy the impairments at proximal locations, as well as identify areas for which projects would help maintain Full Attainment status at those sites that currently meet targeted values (Table 6). Table 7 may be used as a cross-reference for specific sampling locations and critical area assignments. At this time, specific restoration strategies and projects have been identified for five critical areas to address the nonpoint source pollution issues that are believed to be causing the impaired state in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. Additional critical areas may be developed in subsequent versions of this NPS-IS plan. TABLE 6: HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 CRITICAL AREA IDENTIFICATION.

Sample site (OEPA, 2015)

Critical Area Description Critical Area #

Ottawa River RM 19.5

Tenmile Creek RM 0.5

North Tenmile Creek

RM 0.1

Subwatershed extending from Ottawa River RM 19.0 into upstream Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (to Tenmile Creek RM 0.5) and North Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (to North Tenmile Creek at the State Border and Eggeman Ditch)

1

Ottawa River RM 16.8, 14.4

Subwatershed of Ottawa River between RM 17.75 and RM 14.4 2

Ottawa River RM 12.2, 11.8, 11.6

Floodplain of Ottawa River between RM 14.4 and RM 11.6 3

Hill Ditch RM 2.6, 2.2

Riparian area of Hill Ditch and tributaries between headwaters and confluence with Heldman Ditch

4

Heldman Ditch RM 2.7, 0.2

Zink Ditch RM 0.7

Riparian area of Heldman Ditch and tributaries (excluding Hill Ditch) 5


FIGURE 11: HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 CRITICAL AREAS.


TABLE 7: IDENTIFIERS AND DESCRIPTIONS FOR SAMPLE LOCATIONS IN HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 CRITICAL

AREAS.

Ohio EPA

STORET Code Station Name

River Mile

Designation in NPS-IS

River Mile Designation

(Other Source)

Critical

Area Attainment

P11K63 Tenmile Creek of Sylvania

@ Silica Dr. 0.5 0.47 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 1 Full

P11S77 North Tenmile at Sylvania

@ Monroe St.

0.1

0.12 (PCS DMDS, 2017)

0.6 (Ohio EPA, 2015) 1 Partial

301440 Ottawa River near Sylvania

@ Harroun Rd. 19.5 -- 1 Partial

301441 Ottawa R. Near Toledo @

Sylvania Ave. 16.8

16.84 (PCS DMDS, 2017);

16.9 (Ohio EPA, 2015) 2 Full

301442 Ottawa R. Near Ottawa

Hills @ Edgehill Rd. 14.4 14.42 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 2 Non

P11S51 Ottawa R. at Toledo @ W.

Bancroft St. 12.2 12.21 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 3 Full

204346 Ottawa R. at Toledo, Upst. Old

University of Toledo Dam 11.8 -- 3 Partial

301450 Hill Ditch @ Carriage Dr. 2.6 2.58 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 4 Non

P11K61 Hill Ditch near Ottawa Hills

@ Reynolds Rd. 2.2 2.11 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 4 Partial

P11S93 Heldman Ditch at Toledo

@ Hill Ave. 2.7 2.72 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 5 Full

P11S85 Heldman Ditch at Toledo

@ Edgevale Rd. 0.2 0.15 (PCS DMDS, 2017) 5 Full

P11P37 Zink Ditch W. of Toledo at

Dorr St. 0.7 -- 5 Partial

3.2 Critical Area 1: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Upper Reach of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 3.2.1 Detailed Characterization The Ottawa River sampling site located at RM 19.5 (Harroun Rd.) is located within a highly urbanized area in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. The sampling location is listed in Partial Attainment of the Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation, caused by sedimentation/siltation from urban runoff/storm sewers. Due to its location near the upstream terminus of the HUC-12, impairment in this segment is likely attributed to land use characteristics of the watershed of not only the Ottawa River in this segment, but also upstream segments of Tenmile Creek (from RM 0.5 to the beginning of Ottawa River) and North Tenmile Creek (from the state border to the confluence with Tenmile Creek). Using the rationale described in the Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008)(Section 10.3.4): “In general, management practices are implemented immediately adjacent to the waterbody or upland to address the sources of pollutant loads.”— Critical Area 1 includes the subwatershed area of the Ottawa River from RM 19.0 to ~RM 19.75, the sub-


20

watershed area of Tenmile Creek from RM 0.5 to RM 0, and the subwatershed area of North Tenmile Creek from ~RM 0.8 (state border) to its confluence with Tenmile Creek (Figure 12).

3.2.2 Detailed Biological Conditions Fish community data are summarized on the following page for the Harroun Rd (RM 19.5) sampling site in Critical Area 1 (Table 8). Analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing fish species found by Ohio EPA at this sampling location in relation to QHEI scores aids in identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Harroun Rd. sampling site is currently meeting the WWH standard for IBI score (37, goal is 32), but is not meeting the WWH standard for MIwb (6.3, goal is 7.3). Habitat scores at the Harroun Rd. sampling site are meeting WWH expectations (78.0, goal is 60), likely due to bedrock with mixed substrate sizes and a moderate array of functional cover (Ohio EPA, 2015). Characteristics of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community for the Harroun Rd. sampling site in Critical Area 1 are summarized on the following page (Table 9). Once again, analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing aquatic macroinvertebrates (bugs) found by Ohio EPA at this sampling location, related to QHEI scores, can aid in the identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Harroun Rd. sampling site is currently maintaining the WWH standard for ICI score (34, goal is 34).

FIGURE 12: HELDMAN DITCH-OTTAWA RIVER HUC-12 CRITICAL AREA 1.


21

* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). w Wading site. Tolerance categories: VT=Very Tolerant, T=Tolerant, MT=Moderately Tolerant, F=Facultative, MI=Moderately Intolerant,

I= Intolerant

* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). w Wading site.

TABLE 8: CRITICAL AREA 1 - FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).

Stream/RM D.A. (mi2)

Total Species

QHEI MIwb IBI Predominant Species (percent of

catch) Narrative

Evaluation

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River (WWH) (Partial Attainment)

Ottawa River RM 19.5W 124.6 18 78.0 6.3* 37

Central stoneroller (34%), orangethroat darter (17%), striped

shiner (12%)

Marginally Good-Fair

Tenmile Creek (WWH) (Partial Attainment)

Tenmile Creek RM 0.5W 81.0 16 77.0 7.4 39

Creek chub (21%), orangethroat darter (19%), central stoneroller

(15%)

Good- Marginally

Good

North Tenmile Creek (WWH) (Partial Attainment)

North Tenmile Creek

RM 0.1W

42.1 16 54.0 7.9 28ns

Bluntnose minnow (43%), central stoneroller (19%), creek chub

(11%) Fair-Good

TABLE 9: CRITICAL AREA 1 - MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).

Stream/ RM ICI Score--

Narrative

Notes Predominant Species


Ottawa River

RM 19.5W

34—Good

5 sensitive taxa

Moderate Qualitative

density Baetid mayflies (F)

Tenmile Creek (WWH) (Partial Attainment)

Tenmile Creek

RM 0.5 W

38—Good

6 sensitive taxa

Low-Moderate

Qualitative density

Hydropsychid caddisflies (F), baetid

mayflies (F), flatworms (F) North Tenmile Creek (WWH) (Partial Attainment)

North Tenmile Creek

RM 0.1W

Fair*

sensitive taxa

Low Qualitative

density

Hydropsychid caddisflies (F), heptageniid

mayflies (F)

3.2.3 Detailed Causes and Associated Sources The Harroun Rd. (RM 19.5) sampling site is listed as in Partial Attainment of the Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation (Table 10). The cause for the Partial Attainment listing is sedimentation/siltation from urban runoff/storm sewers. Habitat attributes at this sampling location consistently meet Warmwater Habitat Attributes, with only minor negative influence from low sinuosity, embedded substrates and lack of riffle.


22

* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). W Wading site.

While Tenmile Creek/Ottawa River is flanked by moderate riparian cover in this reach, the lack of interstitial voids still limits habitat in this stretch. The small portion of North Tenmile Creek that flows through Ohio is primarily developed; however, the effects of siltation from heavy agricultural land use still plagues the stream (Ohio EPA, 2015). Flow alteration in North Tenmile Creek is also likely impacting attainment scores in the proximal Ottawa River location. Projects that help address flow in upstream locations, as well as sediment loading from urban runoff and storm sewer systems in the mainstem will help improve water quality to support more diverse fish populations in this reach. TABLE 10: SUMMARY DATA FOR CRITICAL AREA 1 (OHIO EPA, 2015).

RM IBI MIwb ICI QHEI Status Primary Cause Primary Source Location Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07)

Ottawa River

19.5W 37 6.3* 34 78.0 Partial Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm

sewers Harroun

Rd. Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 06)

Tenmile Creek 0.5W 39 7.4 38 77.0 Full -- -- Silica Dr.

North Tenmile Creek HUC-12 (04100001 03 05) North Tenmile Creek

0.1W 28ns 7.9 Fair* 54.0 Partial Low flow alteration Crop production with subsurface drainage

Monroe St.

3.2.4 Outline Goals and Objectives for the Critical Area Critical Area 1 is primarily impaired based upon sedimentation/siltation associated with urban runoff and storm sewer systems. These impacts are likely coming from the upstream segment of Tenmile Creek, with additional influence from North Tenmile Creek. Critical Area 1 is 2.5 square miles in area (1600 acres), with approximately

91% of that area (1450 acres) developed. This stretch contains approximately 1.25 miles of mainstem Tenmile Creek/Ottawa River, with an additional 3.0 miles of tributaries that could be targeted for improved instream or riparian habitat. Goals The overarching nonpoint source restoration goal of any NPS-IS plan is to improve IBI, MIwb, ICI, and QHEI scores so that the partial or non-attainment status can achieve full attainment of the designated aquatic life use for that waterbody. The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is in Partial Attainment of its designated Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use. This attainment status is due to sedimentation/siltation attributed from urban runoff/storm sewers across the entire watershed. In this reach of the Ottawa River, the segment containing the sampling location at Harroun Rd. (RM 19.5) is in Partial Attainment due to the fish community only partially achieving its criteria, while the macroinvertebrate community and habitat score have reached targeted values. The remaining goals for Critical Area 1 of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are to improve the MIwb score at the Harroun Rd. (RM 19.5) sampling site on the Ottawa River so that the Partial Attainment status for this sampling site can be changed to full attainment of the designated WWH aquatic life use. These goals are to specifically:


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Goal 1. Maintain IBI score at or above of 32 at Harroun Road sampling site on the Ottawa River (RM 19.5).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 37. Goal 2. Achieve MIwb score of 7.3 at Harroun Road sampling site on the Ottawa River (RM 19.5).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 6.4. Goal 3. Maintain ICI score at or above 34 at Harroun Road sampling site on the Ottawa River (RM 19.5).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 34. Goal 4. Maintain QHEI score at or above 60 at Harroun Road sampling site on the Ottawa River (RM 19.5).

ACHIEVED Site currently has a score of 78.0.

Objectives In order to achieve the overall nonpoint source restoration goal of restoring Full Attainment to the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, the following objectives need to be achieved within Critical Area 1. These practices address not only the restoration goals for this HUC-12, but also may help improve water quality in the Lake Erie basin.

Objective 1. Reduce stormwater inputs and impacts in the subwatershed.

Implement green infrastructure projects that retain, detain, and/or treat runoff from at least 215 acres of urbanized impermeable surfaces (i.e., parking lots, roads, etc.), accounting for approximately 15% of the impermeable surface of Critical Area 1.

Objective 2. Create in-stream habitat for fish and macroinvertebrate populations.

Restore at least 2000 linear feet of instream habitat in the Ottawa River and tributaries within Critical Area 1.

Objective 3. Improve stream morphology with natural channel design principles.

Restore at least 2000 feet of stream channel in Critical Area 1. Objective 4. Improve riparian corridor with native plantings and invasive species removal.

Restore at least 20 acres of riparian habitat in the mainstem Ottawa River and tributaries within Critical Area 1.

Water quality monitoring is an integral part of the project implementation process. Both project-specific and routinely scheduled monitoring will be conducted to determine progress towards meeting the goals (i.e., water quality standards). Through an adaptive management process, the aforementioned objectives will be reevaluated and modified as necessary. Objectives may be added to make further progress towards attainment goals, or altered, as a systems approach of multiple best management practices (BMPs) can accelerate the improvement of water quality conditions. The Ohio EPA Nonpoint Source Management Plan Update (Ohio EPA, 2013) will be utilized as a reevaluation tool for its listing of all eligible NPS management strategies to consider including:

Urban Sediment and Nutrient Reduction Strategies;

Altered Stream and Habitat Restoration Strategies;

Nonpoint Source Reduction Strategies; and

High Quality Waters Protection Strategies.


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FIGURE 13: FORESTED FLOODPLAIN OF THE OTTAWA RIVER OWNED BY THE

VILLAGE OF OTTAWA HILLS. PHOTO FROM AREIS (LUCAS COUNTY, 2017).

3.3 Critical Area 2: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Middle Reach of the Ottawa River of Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 3.3.1 Detailed Characterization The Ottawa River sampling site located at Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) is located within a highly urbanized area in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, just upstream of Wildwood Preserve Metropark. The sampling location is listed in Full Attainment of the Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation. The sampling site located at Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) is listed in Non-Attainment of the Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation, caused by sedimentation/siltation from urban runoff/storm sewers. The heart of the 4,000-acre Critical Area 2 is 490-acre Wildwood Preserve Metropark. This preserve and its surroundings are part of the Oak Openings Region. Within the preserve, the Ottawa River has a naturally vegetated and functioning floodplain and stream system. Riparian cover in this area is heavy, with the exception of the 2003 removal of large stands of ash trees infected by Emerald Ash Borer. Despite the healthy natural area dominating this reach of the Ottawa River, the sample location at Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4), about 0.75 river miles downstream of the preserve, is only in Partial Attainment, with low MIwb and ICI scores, likely due to the heavily developed surrounding land use. The land in Critical Area 2 surrounding Wildwood is almost entirely residential, with light commercial/business development, mostly along Central Avenue. Residences line much of the Ottawa River here, but most are set well back from the river. Per reports from Metroparks personnel, some residences drain their residential swimming pools directly into the river. Immediately upstream of Wildwood lie two smaller natural areas likely contributing to attainment values at the Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) location: Camp Miakonda and the University of Toledo’s Stranahan Arboretum. A wetland and in-stream restoration project was completed on the Ottawa River in Camp Miakonda in 2014, as well as a lowhead dam removal project in 2003. An unnamed tributary ditch flows through the Stranahan Arboretum property and carries urban runoff into the Ottawa River just downstream of the sample location at Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8). The Village of Ottawa Hills owns the 100-year flood zone along the segment of the Ottawa River between Wildwood Preserve Metropark and Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4). This piece of property is 28 acres of well-forested, undeveloped floodplain, ranging from 520 to 850 feet wide (Figure 13). Upstream and to the west of Wildwood Preserve, Shadow Lake Ditch and Schliker Ditch (which becomes Kroll Ditch inside the Preserve boundary) flow through developed residential areas and enter the Ottawa River inside the preserve. These tributaries carry urban runoff from about 990 acres of urban area that is mostly residential. Other urban tributaries in this reach include Miner Park Ditch, Case County Ditch and several unnamed ditches. Using the rationale described in the Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008)(Section 10.3.4): “In general, management practices are implemented immediately adjacent to the waterbody or upland to address the sources of pollutant loads.”— Critical Area 2 includes the subwatershed area of the Ottawa River that contributes runoff or drainage waters to this reach, between RM 17.75 and RM 14.4 (Figure 14).


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). W wading site

3.3.2 Detailed Biological Conditions Fish community data are summarized below for the Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) and Edgehill (RM 14.4) sampling sites in Critical Area 2 (Table 11). Analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing fish species found by Ohio EPA at these sampling locations in relation to QHEI scores aids in identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) sampling site is just marginally achieving attainment status for its fish communities. The IBI score falls within the nonsignificant departure range (28, goal is 32), while the MIwb score exceeds the target value (7.5, goal is 7.3). The sampling location at Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) is not achieving target values for its fish community. While the IBI score at this location is in attainment (34, goal is 32), the MIwb score is in poor status (5.6, goal is 7.3). Even with a large expanse of the Ottawa River held in preserved state in this critical area, sites downstream of Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) were degraded by a slow current, little functional cover and an overabundance of silt (Ohio EPA, 2015). The habitat score at Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) reached expected values (68.5, goal is 60), while habitat at Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) fell just short of its target value (59.3, goal is 60), likely due to pressure from urban land use. TABLE 11: CRITICAL AREA 2 - FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).


Total Species


catch) Narrative

Evaluation


Ottawa River RM 16.8W 127.6 19 68.5 7.5 28ns

Central stoneroller (38%), bluntnose minnow (28%), blackside darter (7%)

Marginally Good-Fair

Ottawa River RM 14.4W 131.6 18 59.3 5.6* 34

Green sunfish (19%), blackside darter (16%), creek chub (13%)

Poor- Marginally

Good

Characteristics of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community for the Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) and Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) sampling sites in Critical Area 2 are summarized below (Table 12). Once again, analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing aquatic macroinvertebrates (bugs) found by Ohio EPA at this


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). w Wading site. Tolerance categories: VT=Very Tolerant, T=Tolerant, MT=Moderately Tolerant, F=Facultative, MI=Moderately Intolerant,

I= Intolerant

sampling location, related to QHEI scores can aid in the identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) site is marginally meeting attainment value for the WWH standard within the nonsignificant departure range (30, goal is 34), while the Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) sample site is below attainment value for the WWH standard for ICI score (28, goal is 34). TABLE 12: CRITICAL AREA 2 - MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).

Stream/RM ICI Score-- Narrative Notes Predominant Species


Ottawa River

RM 16.8W

30 — Marginally Good 4 sensitive taxa

High

Qualitative density Baetid mayflies (F)

Ottawa River

RM 14.4W

28—Fair 2 sensitive taxa

Moderate


3.3.3 Detailed Causes and Associated Sources The Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) and Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) sampling sites are listed as in Full Attainment and Non-Attainment, respectively, of the Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation (Table 13). The cause for the Non-Attainment listing at RM 14.4 includes sedimentation/siltation from urban runoff/storm sewers. While habitat in this reach scored relatively high, with bedrock, boulder and cobble substrates and forested cover, limiting aspects of poor pool development and heavy silt cover pervade all Ottawa River sampling sites (Ohio EPA, 2015). The data summarized previously in Table 4 from the Ohio EPA Technical Support Document (Ohio EPA, 2015) reveal a direct link between the presence of attributes that have moderate to high influence on the Non- Attainment listing at the Edgehill Rd. sampling site (i.e., non-attainment of QHEI, MIwb, and ICI goals). These contributing attributes from the adjacent watershed of Critical Area 2 include:

Heavy or Moderate Silt Cover (RM 16.8 and 14.4)

Low Sinuosity (RM 14.4)

Limited Cover Types (RM 16.9 and 14.4)

Slow Current (RM 16.8)

High to Moderate Embeddedness (RM 16.9 and 14.4)

High to Moderate Riffle Embeddedness (RM 16.9 and 14.4)

Projects that address the above described habitat-related attributes (e.g., embeddedness) will positively affect the QHEI scoring index. It is expected that as the habitat (QHEI) score becomes better, the IBI, MIwb and ICI indices scoring will also improve. TABLE 13: SUMMARY DATA FOR CRITICAL AREA 2 (OHIO EPA, 2015).

RM IBI MIwb ICI QHEI Status Primary Cause(s) Primary Source(s) Location Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07)


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). W Wading site.

Ottawa River 16.8W 28ns 7.5 30ns 68.5 Full -- -- Sylvania Ave.

14.4W 34 5.6* 28* 59.3 Non Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Edgehill Rd.

3.3.4 Outline Goals and Objectives for the Critical Area Critical Area 2 is approximately 3,200 acres, of which 70% is developed land (2,240 acres). As explained in detail

above, Critical Area 2 is impaired based upon direct effects of urbanization—mainly sedimentation/siltation from the associated impacts of urban runoff. Approximately 3.35 miles of the mainstem Ottawa River and an additional 7.75 miles of small tributary ditches flow through Critical Area 2. In theory, approximately 200 acres could be targeted for riparian enhancement; however, most of this land is unavailable for these efforts due to the dense residential development. Restorative efforts focused upon limiting and attenuating the load of sediment within the Ottawa River within this reach, as well as retaining, storing and slowing the flow of urban runoff to the waterways should positively impact biological attainment scores. It is also likely that the upstream subwatershed already listed in Critical Area 1 (see Section 3.2) is contributing to the Non-Attainment at the RM 14.4 location. Restoration initiatives implemented in Critical Area 1 will likely also have an impact on attainment within Critical Area 2. Goals The overarching nonpoint source restoration goal of any NPS-IS plan is to improve IBI, MIwb, ICI, and QHEI scores so that the partial or non-attainment status can achieve full attainment of the designated aquatic life use for that waterbody. The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is in Non-Attainment of its designated Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use at the Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) sampling location, due to a poor MIwb score and low ICI score. The remaining goals for Critical Area 2 of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are to improve the MIwb and ICI scores at Edgehill Rd., while increasing the habitat score so that the Non-Attainment status can be changed to full attainment of the designated WWH aquatic life use. These goals are to specifically:

Goal 1. Achieve IBI score of 32 at Sylvania Ave. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 16.8).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 28. Goal 2. Maintain IBI score at or above 32 at Edgehill Rd. on Ottawa River (RM 14.4).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 34. Goal 3. Maintain MIwb score at or above 7.3 at Sylvania Ave. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 16.8).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 7.5. Goal 4. Achieve MIwb score of 7.3 at Edgehill Rd. on Ottawa River (RM 14.4).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 5.6. Goal 5. Achieve ICI score of 34 at Sylvania Ave. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 16.8).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 30. Goal 6. Achieve ICI score of 34 at Edgehill Rd. on Ottawa River (RM 14.4).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 28. Goal 7. Maintain QHEI score at or above 60 at Sylvania Ave. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 16.8).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 68.5. Goal 8. Achieve QHEI score of 60 at Edgehill Rd. on Ottawa River (RM 14.4).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 59.3


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Objective 1. Protect and restore effective riparian buffer zones.

Restore at least 15 acres of riparian buffer within Critical Area 2.

Objective 2. Create, enhance or restore floodplain wetland connectivity.

Restore at least 20 acres of floodplain wetlands. Objective 3. Reduce stormwater inputs and impacts in the subwatershed.

Implement green infrastructure projects within Critical Area 2 that retain, detain, and/or treat runoff from at least 250 acres of urbanized impermeable surfaces (i.e., parking lots, roads, etc.).

Objective 4. Implement homeowner education about proper pool drainage6.

Create and implement a homeowner and pool contractor educational/outreach campaign to discourage drainage directly to the Ottawa River.






3.4 Critical Area 3: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Ottawa Hills Floodplain Area of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 3.4.1 Detailed Characterization The Ottawa River sampling sites located at Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) and Upstream Secor Rd.- Old UT Dam (RM 11.8) are located in the 100-year flood zone within the Village of Ottawa Hills. Critical Area 3 covers a 206-acre area extending along the Ottawa River from Talmadge Rd. (RM 13.2) to Secor Road. The downstream terminus of this critical area lies at the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 terminus (~RM 11.7, just upstream of Secor Road). The area is currently maintained as lawn, dominated by European cool-season grasses with scattered native and non-native trees. It provides little habitat for wildlife and no wetland functions for the seasonal river floodwaters (Mannik and Smith Group, 2008). In the western end of Critical Area 3, in the mostly open lawn north of the river

6 While this objective is believed to be an important component of protecting and improving water quality within the Ottawa River, the

effects of this educational objective are considered to be negligible and are not factored into the projected impacts of restoration projects on any biological index.


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and 700 feet east of Talmadge Road, two drainages flow into the Ottawa River. These two shallow depressional ditches start at pipes and carry stormwater from the neighborhood to the north (Mannik and Smith Group, 2008). These ditches were characterized in the Ottawa River Habitat Restoration Inventory (Mannik and Smith Group, 2008). The westernmost drainage was classified as a Category 1 wetland. Approximately half of Critical Area 3, including a portion of this western area with the two drainages, contains the hydric soil Eel loam. This hydric soil could easily revert back to wetland given the right restoration conditions (Mannik and Smith Group, 2008). Land use within Critical Area 3 is wholly forest, while land use in the area adjacent to Critical Area 3 is almost entirely developed. A small plot of forested land is located in the floodplain area of Hill Ditch to the south. In 2007, a lowhead dam just upstream of Secor Road was removed. Analyses from the 2011 TSD sampling event revealed that sedimentation build-up caused by the dam had mostly been washed away, and the fish and macroinvertebrate communities had improved since removal (Ohio EPA, 2015). The fish communities in the Ottawa River were adjusting well to the contemporary removal of both this lowhead dam and one located further upstream in Camp Miakonda (Ohio EPA, 2015). Using the rationale described in the Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008)(Section 10.3.4): “In general, management practices are implemented immediately adjacent to the waterbody or upland to address the sources of pollutant loads.”— Critical Area 3 includes the 100-year flood zone of the Ottawa River between RM 13.2 (Talmadge Rd.) and RM 11.7 (downstream terminus of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12) (Figure 15).

3.4.2 Detailed Biological Conditions Fish community data are summarized below for the Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) and Upstream Secor- Old Dam (RM 11.8) sampling sites in Critical Area 3 (Table 14). Analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing fish species found by Ohio EPA at these sampling locations in relation to QHEI scores aids in identification


30

* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). H Headwater site.

of causes and sources of impairment. The Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) sampling site is just marginally achieving attainment status for its fish communities. The IBI score falls within the nonsignificant departure range (30, goal is 32), while the MIwb score exceeds the target value (8.3, goal is 7.3). The sampling location upstream of the former Secor Dam (RM 11.8) is also marginally achieving target values for its fish community. While the IBI score at this location is in attainment (29, goal is 32) and the MIwb score is in attainment (7.0, goal is 7.3), both scores fall in the nonsignificant departure range for the indices. With both indices in the lower end of the acceptable range of values, this site is at risk of losing attainment status and is therefore considered to be in Partial Attainment for the purposes of this NPS-IS plan. The habitat score at Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) was high (67.0, goal is 60), and the habitat score upstream of Secor Rd. (RM 11.8) approached the targeted QHEI value (59.3, goal is 60). This reach of the Ottawa River is characterized by faster water current than upstream segments. Though the removal of the dam has shown improvements over time, stream habitat here is still limited, with less functional cover and limited definition among pools, riffles, and runs (Ohio EPA, 2015). TABLE 14: CRITICAL AREA 3 - FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).


Total Species


catch) Narrative

Evaluation


Ottawa River

RM 12.2W 133.0 21 67.0 8.3 30ns

Central stoneroller (34%), bluntnose minnow (16%), round goby (14%)

Good- Fair

Ottawa River

RM 11.8W 147.07 18 59.3 7.0ns 29ns

Round goby (30%), central stoneroller (23%), bluntnose minnow (11%)

Fair

Characteristics of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community for the Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) and Upstream Secor Rd. (RM 11.8) sampling sites in Critical Area 3 are summarized on the following page (Table 15). Once again, analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing aquatic macroinvertebrates (bugs) found

by Ohio EPA at this sampling location, related to QHEI scores can aid in the identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) site is marginally meeting attainment value within the nonsignificant departure range for the WWH standard (30, goal is 34), while the Upstream Secor Rd. (RM 11.8) site is achieving attainment value for the WWH standard for ICI score (36, goal is 34). TABLE 15: CRITICAL AREA 3 - MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).

Stream/ RM ICI Score--Narrative Notes Predominant Species


7 Estimated from drainages reported for RM 12.2 and 11.67 (Ohio EPA, 2015).


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. NA ICI narrative score only assigned. w Wading site. Tolerance categories: VT=Very Tolerant, T=Tolerant, MT=Moderately Tolerant, F=Facultative, MI=Moderately Intolerant,

I= Intolerant

Ottawa River

RM 12.2W

30ns — Marginally Good

1 sensitive taxa Moderate


Ottawa River

RM 11.8W

36— Good

3 sensitive taxa

Moderate

Qualitative density Hydropsychid caddisflies (F)

3.4.3 Detailed Causes and Associated Sources The Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) and Upstream Secor Rd.- Old UT Dam (RM 11.8) sampling sites are listed as in Full Attainment and Partial-Attainment, respectively, of the Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation (Table 16). The cause for the Partial Attainment listing at RM 11.8 includes sedimentation/siltation from urban

runoff/storm sewers. While habitat in this reach is relatively good, with bedrock, boulder and cobble substrates and forested cover, limiting aspects of poor pool development and heavy silt cover pervade all Ottawa River sampling sites (Ohio EPA, 2015). The data summarized previously in Table 4 from the Ohio EPA Technical Support Document (Ohio EPA, 2015) reveal a direct link between the presence of attributes that have moderate to high influence on the Partial Attainment listing at the Upstream Secor Rd.-Old UT Dam sampling site (i.e., non-attainment of QHEI, and nonsignificant departure scores of IBI and MIwb ICI). These contributing attributes from the adjacent watershed of Critical Area 3 include:


Sparse/No Cover (RM 11.8)

Hardpan Substrate (RM 12.2 and 11.8)

Fair/Poor Pool Development (RM 11.8)

Limited Cover Types (RM 12.2 and 11.8)

High to Moderate Embeddedness (RM 12.2 and 11.8)


Even at Bancroft St. (RM 12.2), where larger aggregate substrates, including boulders and cobbles were present, degraded substrate quality was still present due to the lack of interstitial voids (Ohio EPA, 2015). At all sites, embedded substrates were smothered by accumulated silt. Although good pool depth was present, the absence of little functional instream cover was commonly more limiting. Projects that address the above described habitat-related attributes (e.g., embeddedness) will positively affect the QHEI scoring index. It is expected that as the habitat (QHEI) score becomes better, the IBI, MIwb and ICI indices scoring will also improve. TABLE 16: SUMMARY DATA FOR CRITICAL AREA 3 (OHIO EPA, 2015).

RM IBI MIwba ICI QHEI Status Primary Cause Primary Source Location Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07)

Ottawa River Ottawa River

RM 12.2W 30ns 8.3 30ns 67.0 Full -- -- Bancroft St.

Ottawa River 29ns 7.0ns 36 59.3 Partial Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm Upstream (Old)


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). a The MIwb (Modified Index of well-being) is not applicable to headwater sites (<20mi2). b Narrative evaluation used in lieu of ICI (Good; MG=Marginally Good; Fair; L Fair=Low Fair; Poor; VP=Very Poor). W Wading site.

RM 11.8W sewers Secor Dam

3.4.4 Outline Goals and Objectives for the Critical Area Critical Area 3 is approximately 206 acres, of forested floodplain and green space. As explained in detail above, Critical Area 3 is impaired based upon direct effects of urbanization—mainly sedimentation/siltation from the associated impacts of urban runoff. Approximately 1.4 miles of the mainstem Ottawa River flows through Critical Area 3. Efforts focused upon restoring and creating functional riparian cover, restoring wetland areas, and limiting

and attenuating the load of sediment within the Ottawa River within this reach, as well as retaining, storing and slowing the flow of urban runoff to this stream should positively impact biological attainment scores. It is also likely that the upstream subwatersheds already listed in Critical Areas 1 and 2 (see in Section 3.2, 3.3) are contributing to the Partial Attainment at this location. Improvements in Critical Areas 1 and 2 will likely also have an impact on attainment within Critical Area 3. Goals The overarching nonpoint source restoration goal of any NPS-IS plan is to improve IBI, MIwb, ICI, and QHEI scores so that the partial or non-attainment status can achieve full attainment of the designated aquatic life use for that waterbody. The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is in Full Attainment of its designated Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use at the Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) sampling location and in Partial Attainment at the Upstream Secor Rd.-Old UT Dam (RM 11.8) sampling location, due to nonsignificant departure values within its fish communities. The remaining goals for Critical Area 3 of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are to improve the IBI scores at both locations, the MIwb and QHEI score at Upstream Secor Rd. (RM 11.8), and the ICI score at Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) to fully achieve target values beyond the nonsignificant departure range and remove the risk of these locations falling out of attainment status of their designated WWH aquatic life use. These goals are to specifically:

Goal 1. Achieve IBI score of 32 at Bancroft St. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 12.2).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 30. Goal 2. Achieve IBI score of 32 at Upstream (Old) Secor Dam sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 11.8).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 29. Goal 3. Maintain MIwb score at or above 7.3 at Bancroft St. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 12.2).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 8.3. Goal 4. Achieve MIwb score of 7.3 at Upstream (Old) Secor Dam sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 11.8).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 7.0.

Goal 5. Achieve ICI score of 34 at Bancroft St. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 12.2).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 30. Goal 6. Maintain ICI score at or above 34 at Upstream (Old) Secor Dam sampling site on Ottawa River (RM

11.8). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 36.

Goal 7. Maintain QHEI score at or above 60 at Bancroft St. sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 12.2). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 67.0.


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Goal 8. Achieve QHEI score of 60 at Upstream (Old) Secor Dam sampling site on Ottawa River (RM 11.8).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 59.3

Objectives Though the sites within Critical Area 3 are in considered in attainment by the water quality standards, the abundance of scores within the nonsignificant departure range is concerning. In order to achieve the overall nonpoint source restoration goal of restoring and maintaining Full Attainment in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, the following objectives need to be achieved within Critical Area 3. These practices address not only the restoration goals for this HUC-12, but also may help improve water quality in the Lake Erie basin.


Restore at least 25 acres of riparian zone within Critical Area 3.


Restore at least 50 acres of floodplain wetlands.

Objective 3. Create, enhance or restore instream habitat.

Restore at least 1000 feet of instream habitat for fish and macroinvertebrate communities.






3.5 Critical Area 4: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for Hill Ditch in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 3.5.1 Detailed Characterization Hill Ditch is a major tributary to Heldman Ditch in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. It is considered a small waterway and is maintained as a headwater stream. Hill Ditch empties into Heldman Ditch at approximately RM 0.5, in the neighborhood west of the Dorr St./Secor Rd. intersection. Heldman Ditch then flows to empty into the Ottawa River at RM 11.7, the downstream terminus of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. The headwaters of Hill Ditch begin west of McCord Rd. and north of Central Avenue. Hill Ditch is joined by Smith and Donelson Ditch and flows eastward through mainly residential lots to Toledo Botanical Gardens, where is was historically dammed to form Lake Crosby. In 2012, two lowhead dams were removed from Hill Ditch, a natural stream channel was restored and wetlands were created within its floodplain (Figure 16). Haefner Ditch joins Hill Ditch shortly before the confluence with Heldman Ditch. Hill Ditch was previously designated as a Limited Resource Waterway; however, the 2011 TSD sampling event led to its recommended designation as a Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use.


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FIGURE 16: TOLEDO BOTANICAL GARDENS MAJOR STREAM RESTORATION. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OLANDER

PARKS SYSTEM.

Two sampling locations exist in Hill Ditch: Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2), immediately upstream and downstream of Toledo Botanical Gardens, respectively. The Hill Ditch sampling site at Carriage Dr. is considered to be in Non-Attainment of its MWH designation, due to a poor ICI score for its macroinvertebrate community. The sampling location at Reynolds Road (RM 2.2) is in Partial Attainment of its MWH designation due to a low ICI score. Interestingly, IBI score improved at Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6), while QHEI and ICI scores decreased after the TBG restoration project. Alternatively, the IBI score decreased and the QHEI score improved at the Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) location. Critical Area 4 land use is primarily developed (88%). It is mostly urban and suburban residential, intermixed with light commercial development. As with all sites in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, Critical Area 4 is situated on Oak Openings sand. The Oak Openings sand hydrogeology and the extent of urban/suburban development influence the water chemistry of Hill Ditch and its tributaries. In 2011, average chloride was twice as concentrated at Hill Ditch than at less developed sites, and ammonia was detected in its sampling locations (Ohio EPA, 2015). Water chemistry samples taken by Ohio EPA in 2011 indicated strong ground water influence in Hill Ditch. Consistent with this finding, the upstream Hill Ditch site at Carriage Dr. has a surprisingly high flow (Ohio EPA, 2015).


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Using the rationale described in the Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008)(Section 10.3.4): “In general, management practices are implemented immediately adjacent to the waterbody or upland to address the sources of pollutant loads.”— Critical Area 4 includes the riparian area (75 feet each side) of Hill Ditch and its tributaries and the contributing subwatershed to this riparian area (Figure 17).

3.5.2 Detailed Biological Conditions During sampling in 2011, Ohio EPA found Hill Ditch and its tributaries to “lack sinuosity, be severely entrenched and mostly devoid of riffles. An overabundance of silty clay and organic fines smothered interstitial voids, limited stream filtering capacity and precluded more aquatic community diversity” (Ohio EPA, 2015). Fish community data are summarized on the following page for the Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling sites in Critical Area 4 (Table 17). Analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing fish species found by Ohio EPA at these sampling locations in relation to QHEI scores aids in identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling sites are achieving MWH attainment status for the fish communities (24 and 20, respectively, goal is 20). The habitat scores at Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) are exceeding target values for MWH streams (51 and 60.8, respectively, goal is 43).


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). H Headwater site. Tolerance categories: VT=Very Tolerant, T=Tolerant, MT=Moderately Tolerant, F=Facultative, MI=Moderately Intolerant,

I= Intolerant

TABLE 17: CRITICAL AREA 4 - FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT DATA (PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017).


Total Species


catch) Narrative

Evaluation


Hill Ditch RM 2.6H 3.5 12 51 -- 24 Central stoneroller (35%), bluntnose

minnow (30%), green sunfish (12%) Fair

Hill Ditch RM 2.2H 6.3 7 60.8 -- 20

Bluntnose minnow (45%), creek chub (35%), central stoneroller (7%),

Fair

Characteristics of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community for the Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling sites in Critical Area 4 are summarized below (Table 18). Once again, analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing aquatic macroinvertebrates (bugs) found by Ohio EPA at this sampling location, related to QHEI scores can aid in the identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) site is not meeting attainment value for the MWH standard (Poor, goal is Fair or 22), while the Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) site is partially meeting the attainment value for the MWH standards (Low Fair, goal is Fair or 22). TABLE 18: CRITICAL AREA 4 - MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY DATA (PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017).



Hill Ditch

RM 2.6H

NA—Poor 0 sensitive taxa

Density unknown Unknown

Hill Ditch

RM 2.2H

NA—Low Fair 1 sensitive taxa

Density unknown Unknown

3.5.3 Detailed Causes and Associated Sources The Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling sites are listed as in Non-Attainment and Partial Attainment, respectively, of the Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation based upon sampling results in 2014 (Table 19). The cause for the Non-Attainment and Partial Attainment listings at the locations includes sedimentation/siltation from urban runoff/storm sewers. While habitat in this tributary is relatively high for MWH designation, previously mentioned attributes (low sinuosity, high-embeddedness, etc.) still limit this waterway. The data summarized previously in Table 4 from the Ohio EPA Technical Support Document (Ohio EPA, 2015) reveal a direct link between the presence of attributes that have moderate to high influence on the


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Non-Attainment and Partial Attainment listings at Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) (i.e., non-attainment of ICI goals). These contributing attributes from the adjacent watershed of Critical Area 4 include:

Silt/Much Substrate (RM 2.6)

Lack of Cover (RM 2.6 and 2.2)

Recovering Channel (RM 2.6 and 2.2)


Poor Development (RM 2.6)

Low Sinuosity (RM 2.2)

High to Moderate Embeddedness (RM 2.2)


Projects that address the above described habitat-related attributes (e.g., embeddedness) will positively affect the QHEI scoring index. It is expected that as the habitat (QHEI) score becomes better, the IBI, MIwb and ICI indices scoring will also improve. TABLE 19: SUMMARY DATA FOR CRITICAL AREA 4 (PARTNERS FOR CLEAN STREAMS, 2017).


Hill Ditch 2.6H 24 -- Poor 51.0 Non Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Carriage Dr.

2.2H 20 -- Low Fair 60.8 Partial Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Reynolds Rd.

3.5.4 Outline Goals and Objectives for the Critical Area Critical Area 4 is approximately 4,500 acres, of which 88% is developed land. As explained in detail above, Critical Area 4 is impaired based upon direct effects of urbanization—mainly sedimentation/siltation from the associated impacts of urban runoff. Approximately 13 miles of maintained stormwater ditches flow through Critical Area 4. In theory, approximately 240 acres could be targeted for riparian enhancement; however, most of this land is unavailable for these efforts due the dense residential development. Restorative efforts focused upon limiting and attenuating the load of sediment within Hill Ditch within this reach, as well as retaining, storing and slowing the flow of urban runoff to this stream should positively impact biological attainment scores. Goals The overarching nonpoint source restoration goal of any NPS-IS plan is to improve IBI, MIwb, ICI, and QHEI scores so that the partial or non-attainment status can achieve full attainment of the designated aquatic life use for that waterbody. The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is in Non-Attainment of its designated Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use at the Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) sampling location, due to a poor ICI score, and is in Partial Attainment of its designated Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use at the Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling location, due to a low ICI score. The remaining goals for Critical Area 4 of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are to improve the ICI scores at both locations, so that the Non-Attainment and Partial Attainment statuses can be changed to full attainment of the designated MWH aquatic life use. These goals are to specifically:


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Goal 1. Maintain IBI score at or above 20 at Carriage Dr. on Hill Ditch (RM 2.6). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 24.

Goal 2. Maintain IBI score at or above 20 at Reynolds Rd. on Hill Ditch (RM 2.2). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 20.

Goal 3. Achieve ICI score of Fair (22) at Carriage Dr. on Hill Ditch (RM 2.6).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of Poor. Goal 4. Achieve ICI score of Fair (22) at Reynolds Rd. on Hill Ditch (RM 2.2).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of Low Fair. Goal 5. Maintain QHEI score at or above 43 at Carriage Dr. on Hill Ditch (RM 2.6).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 51.0. Goal 6. Maintain QHEI score at or above 43 at Carriage Dr. on Hill Ditch (RM 2.6).

ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 60.8


Objective 1. Install 2-stage ditches for the creation of functional floodplain bench.

Install at least 2.0 miles of 2-stage ditches in existing floodplain areas. Objective 2. Protect and restore effective riparian buffer zones and floodplain wetlands.

Restore at least 10 acres of riparian buffer and/or floodplain wetlands within Critical Area 4.

Objective 3. Reduce stormwater inputs and impacts in the subwatershed.








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3.6 Critical Area 5: Conditions, Goals & Objectives for the Heldman Ditch and Tributaries in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 3.6.1 Detailed Characterization Heldman Ditch is the largest tributary to the Ottawa River in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12, draining an area of approximately 21 square miles (Ohio EPA, 2015). Heldman Ditch receives waters from Hill Ditch and several other small tributaries (Table 20). Heldman Ditch, as well as its smaller tributary, Zink Ditch, are designated for the Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use (Ohio EPA, 2015). Land use throughout the Heldman Ditch drainage area is largely urbanized (71%), with small parcels of agricultural use present in the southeastern edge of this area (4%). TABLE 20: HELDMAN DITCH AND TRIBUTARIES IN CRITICAL AREA 5.

Heldman Ditch (MWH designation) Burzynski Ditch Peter May Ditch Geiser Ditch Schultz Ditch Newton Ditch Zink Ditch (MWH designation)

Using the rationale described in the Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008)(Section 10.3.4): “In general, management practices are implemented immediately adjacent to the waterbody or upland to address the sources of pollutant loads.”— Critical Area 5 includes the riparian area (75 feet each side) of Heldman Ditch and its tributaries (excluding Hill Ditch), from its tributary headwaters to its confluence with the Ottawa River at RM 11.7 (Figure 18).


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). W wading site H Headwater site.

3.6.2 Detailed Biological Conditions Fish community data are summarized below for the three sampling sites located with Critical Area 5 (Table 21). All three sites are designated MWH. Analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing fish species found by Ohio EPA at these sampling locations in relation to QHEI scores aids in identification of causes and sources of impairment. The Hill Ave. (RM 2.7) and Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) sampling sites are achieving attainment status for their fish communities (22 and 32, respectively, goal is 20 at headwater sites and 22 and wading sites, respectively). The Dorr St. (RM 0.7) location on Zink Ditch is also achieving attainment status for its fish communities, having the highest score in the Ottawa River basin in 2011 (38, goal is 20) (Ohio EPA, 2015). The habitat score is low at Hill Ave. (RM 2.7) (39, goal is 43), while scoring well at Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) (59, goal is 43). Habitat in Zink Ditch at Dorr St. (RM 0.7) is adequately meeting MWH expectations (43.5, goal is 43). TABLE 21: CRITICAL AREA 5 - FISH COMMUNITY AND HABITAT DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).


Total Species


catch) Narrative

Evaluation


Heldman Ditch RM 2.7H 8.4 12 39.0 -- 22 Bluntnose minnow (32%), creek

chub (25%), johnny darter (13%) Fair

Heldman Ditch RM 0.2W 21.0 16 59.0 7.5 32

Central stoneroller (19%), creek chub (18%), bluntnose minnow (16%)

Fair- Marginally

Good Zink Ditch RM 0.7H 3.5 9 43.5 -- 38

Central stoneroller (65%), creek chub (18%), white sucker (9%)

Good

Characteristics of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community for the Heldman and Zink Ditch sampling sites in Critical Area 5 are summarized on the following page (Table 22). Once again, analysis of the abundance, diversity, and pollution tolerance of existing aquatic macroinvertebrates (bugs) found by Ohio EPA at this sampling location, related to QHEI scores can aid in the identification of causes and sources of impairment. Both Heldman Ditch locations (RM 2.7 and 0.2) are achieving attainment status for ICI scores (Fair, goal is Fair), although no sensitive taxa were found in either location. The Dorr St. (RM 0.7) location in Zink Ditch is not meeting MWH standards for macroinvertebrate communities (Low Fair, goal is Fair).


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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). H Headwater site. w Wading site. Tolerance categories: VT=Very Tolerant, T=Tolerant, MT=Moderately Tolerant, F=Facultative, MI=Moderately Intolerant,

I= Intolerant

TABLE 22: CRITICAL AREA 5 - MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY DATA (OHIO EPA, 2015).



Heldman Ditch

RM 2.7H

NA — Fair 0 sensitive taxa

Low-Moderate

Qualitative density

Hydropschychid caddisflies (F), water mites (F),

sowbugs (T) Heldman Ditch

RM 0.2W

NA—Fair 0 sensitive taxa

Low-Moderate

Qualitative density

Hydropschychid caddisflies (F), midges (F,T),

water mites (F) Zink Ditch

RM 0.7H

NA—Low Fair* 1 sensitive taxa

Low-Moderate

Qualitative density

Flatworms (F), midges (F),

sowbugs (T)

3.6.3 Detailed Causes and Associated Sources The Heldman Ditch sampling locations at Hill Ave. (RM 2.7) and Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) are listed in Full Attainment Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation (Table 23). The Zink Ditch sampling location at Dorr St. (RM 0.7) is listed in Partial Attainment of the Modified Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use designation due to a low score for its macroinvertebrate communities. Habitat is exhibiting expected attributes for MWH streams, with the exception of the Heldman Ditch location at Hill Ave. (RM 2.7). Habitat characteristics at these three locations show moderate to high effects of sedimentation/siltation caused by urban runoff/storm sewers. The data summarized previously in Table 4 from the Ohio EPA Technical Support Document (Ohio EPA, 2015) reveal a direct link between the presence of attributes that have moderate to high influence on the Partial Attainment listing at the Zink Ditch Dorr St. (RM 0.7) sampling location, as well as general effects limiting the streams in this entire critical area. These contributing attributes from the adjacent watershed of Critical Area 5 include:

Channelization and/or Recovering Channel (Heldman RM 2.7 and Zink Ditch)

Heavy or Moderate Silt Cover (all three sites)

Poor Pool Development (Heldman Ditch sites)

Sparse Cover (Heldman RM 2.7 and Zink Ditch)

Slow Current (all three sites)

High to Moderate Embeddedness (all three sites)

Projects that address the above described habitat-related attributes (e.g., embeddedness) will positively affect the QHEI scoring index. It is expected that as the habitat (QHEI) score becomes better, the IBI, MIwb and ICI indices scoring will also improve. TABLE 23: SUMMARY DATA FOR CRITICAL AREA 5 (OHIO EPA, 2015).



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* Significant departure from ecoregion biocriterion; poor and very poor results are underlined. ns Nonsignificant departure from biocriterion (≤4 IBI or ICI units; ≤0.5 MIwb units). W Wading site. H Headwater site.

Heldman Ditch 2.7H 22 -- Fair 39.0 Full -- -- Hill Ave.

0.2W 32 7.5 Fair 59.0 Full -- -- Edgevale Rd.

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07) Zink Ditch

0.7H 38 -- Low Fair* 43.5 Partial Sedimentation/siltation Urban runoff/storm sewers Dorr St.

3.6.4 Outline Goals and Objectives for the Critical Area Critical Area 5 is approximately 7,500 acres, of which 71% is developed land. As explained in detail above, Critical Area 5 is impaired based upon direct effects of urbanization—mainly sedimentation/siltation from the associated

impacts of urban runoff. Approximately 12 miles of tributary ditches flow through Critical Area 5. In theory, over 200 acres could be targeted for riparian enhancement; however, most of this land is unavailable for these efforts due the dense residential development. Restorative efforts focused upon limiting and attenuating the load of sediment within Heldman Ditch and its tributaries within this reach, as well as retaining, storing and slowing the flow of urban runoff to receiving waterways will not only achieve attainment in Zink Ditch and maintain attainment scores in Heldman Ditch, but will also help maintain high quality waters that flow into the lower reach of the Ottawa River in this HUC-12 watershed. Goals The overarching nonpoint source restoration goal of any NPS-IS plan is to improve IBI, MIwb, ICI, and QHEI scores so that the partial or non-attainment status can achieve full attainment of the designated aquatic life use for that waterbody. The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 is in Partial Attainment of its designated Warmwater Habitat aquatic life use at the Dorr St. (RM 0.7) sampling location in Zink Ditch, due to a low ICI score. The remaining goals for Critical Area 5 of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 are to improve the ICI scores at Dorr St. on Zink Ditch, while maintaining IBI, ICI and applicable MIwb attainment levels at the two Heldman Ditch sites to maintain the MWH designation. These goals are to specifically:

Goal 1. Maintain IBI score at or above 20 at Hill Ave. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 2.7). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 22.

Goal 2. Maintain IBI score at or above 22 at Edgevale Rd. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 0.2). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 34.

Goal 3. Maintain IBI score at or above 20 at Dorr St. sampling site on Zink Ditch (RM 0.7). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 38.

Goal 4. Maintain MIwb score at or above 5.6 at Edgevale Rd. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 0.2). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 7.5.

Goal 5. Maintain ICI score at or above Fair at Hill Ave. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 2.7). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of Fair.

Goal 6. Maintain ICI score at or above Fair at Edgevale Rd. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 0.2). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of Fair.

Goal 7. Achieve ICI score of Fair at Dorr St. sampling site on Zink Ditch (RM 0.7).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of Low Fair. Goal 8. Achieve QHEI score of 43 at Hill Ave. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 2.7).

NOT ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 39.


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Goal 9. Maintain QHEI score at or above 43 at Edgevale Rd. sampling site on Heldman Ditch (RM 0.2). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 59.

Goal 10. Maintain QHEI score at or above 43 at Dorr St. sampling site on Zink Ditch (RM 0.7). ACHIEVED: Site currently has a score of 43.5.



Restore at least 25 acres of riparian buffer within Critical Area 2.


Restore at least 70 acres of floodplain wetlands. Objective 3. Reduce stormwater inputs and impacts in the subwatershed.


Objective 4. Install 2-stage ditches for the creation of functional floodplain bench.

Install at least 1.5 miles of 2-stage ditches in existing floodplain areas.







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Chapter 4: Projects and Implementation Strategy

4.1 Overview Tables and Project Sheets for Critical Areas Projects and evaluation needs are identified for the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 based upon identified causes and associated sources of nonpoint source pollution. Over time, these critical areas will need to be reevaluated to determine progress towards meeting restoration and attainment goals. Time is an important variable in measuring project success and overall status when using biological indices as a measurement tool. Some biological systems may show fairly quick response (i.e., one season), while others may take several seasons or years to show progress towards recovery. In addition, reasons for the impairment other than those associated with nonpoint source pollution sources may arise. Those issues will need to be addressed under different initiatives, authorities or programs that may or may not be accomplished by the same implementers addressing the nonpoint source pollution issues.

For the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 there are five Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Tables (subsections 4.2.1, 4.3.1, 4.4.1, 4.5.1, 4.6.1). Future versions of this NPS-IS plan may include subsequent sections as more critical areas are refined and more projects become developed to meet the requisite objectives within a critical area. The projects described in the Overview Table have been prioritized using the following three-step prioritization method:

Priority 1 Projects that specifically address one or more of the listed Objectives for the Critical Area. Priority 2 Projects where there is land-owner willingness to engage in projects that are designed to

address the cause(s) and source(s) of impairment or where there is an expectation that such potential projects will improve water quality in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12.

Priority 3 In an effort to generate interest in projects, an information and education campaign will be

developed and delivered. Such outreach will engage citizens to spark interest by stakeholders to participate and implement projects like those mentioned in Priority 1 and 2.

Project Summary Sheets (PSS) are in subsections 4.2.2, 4.3.2, 4.4.2, 4.5.2, and 4.6.2. These PSS provide the essential nine elements for short-term and/or next step projects that are in development and/or in need of funding. As projects are implemented and new projects developed, these sheets will be updated. Any new PPS created will be submitted to the state of Ohio for funding eligibility verification (i.e., all nine elements are included).

4.2 Critical Area 1: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for the Upper Reach of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 The information included in the Critical Area 1 Overview Table is a condensed overview of all identified projects needed for nonpoint source restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 1. Project Summary Sheets are included for short-term projects or any project that is considering seeking funding in the near future. Only those projects with complete Project Summary Sheets will be considered for state and federal NPS program funding.

Implementation of practices described in this NPS-IS plan will also contribute to nutrient load reduction (specifically the 40% reduction in phosphorus load) to protect and restore use attainment in Lake Erie. Nutrient load reduction efforts are consistent with the Lake Erie Collaborative Agreement (IJC) and Lake Erie Domestic Action Plan (under development).


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4.2.1 Critical Area 1: Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Table The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 1 is based on Partial Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Harroun Rd. sampling site of the Ottawa River (RM 19.5). The Critical Area 1 Overview Table provides a quick summary of what needs to be done, where, and what problem (cause/source) will be addressed and includes projects at all levels of development (i.e. concept, need funding, in progress). This Overview Table is intended to show a prioritized path toward the restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12.


*Ohio EPA, 2013

Critical Area 1: Project Overview Table for


Goal Objective Project # Project Title

(EPA Criteria g)

Lead Organization

(criteria d)

Time Frame (EPA Criteria f)

Estimated Cost (EPA Criteria d)

Potential/Actual Funding Source (EPA Criteria d)

Urban Sediment and Nutrient Reduction Strategies*

1-4 1-4 1 Flower Hospital Creek Restoration Promedica Short

(1-3 years $100,000- $300,000

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, SOGL, WRRSP,

City of Sylvania, Local Stakeholders

Altered Stream and Habitat Restoration Strategies*

1-4 1-4 1 Flower Hospital Creek Restoration Promedica Short

(1-3 years $100,000- $300,000

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, SOGL, WRRSP,

City of Sylvania, Local Stakeholders

Agricultural Nonpoint Source Reduction Strategies*

High Quality Waters Protection Strategies*

Other NPS Causes and Associated Sources of Impairment


4.2.2 Critical Area 1: Project Summary Sheet(s) The Project Summary Sheets provided below were developed based on the actions or activities needed to restore the Harroun Rd. (RM 19.5) sampling site of the Ottawa River to attainment of the aquatic life use designation. These projects are considered next step or priority/short term projects and are considerably ready to implement. Medium and longer-term projects will most likely not have a Project Summary Sheet or will not have a complete Project Summary Sheet, as these projects are not ready for implementation or need more thorough planning.

Critical Area 1: Project 1

Nine Element Criteria

Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Flower Hospital Creek Restoration

criteria d

Project Lead Organization & Partners

Promedica

criteria c HUC-12 & Critical Area

Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07): Critical Area 1

criteria c Location of Project Ottawa River east of Harroun Road (41°42'48.5" N 83°41'30.7" W)

n/a Which strategy is being addressed by this project?

Altered Stream and Habitat Restoration Strategy Urban Nonpoint Source Reduction Strategy

criteria f

Time Frame Short (1-3 Years)

criteria g

Short Description Improve stream morphology and construct planted bio-swales and retention basins along the Ottawa River.

criteria g

Project Narrative

The Ottawa River has a degraded riparian zone surrounded by impermeable surfaces in this urban area. This project will improve water quality and restore habitat to 500-2000 feet in and around the river. Planted bioswales and retention basins will be used to control erosion, reduce sediment and contaminant loading, and mitigate stormwater inputs directly to the river.

criteria d

Estimated Total cost $100,000–$300,000

criteria d

Possible Funding Source

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, SOGL, WRRSP, City of Sylvania, Local Stakeholders

criteria a

Identified Causes and Sources

Cause: Sedimentation/Siltation Source: Urban runoff/storm sewers


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criteria b & h

Part 1: How much improvement is needed to remove the NPS impairment associated with this Critical Area?

Objective 2: Restore at least 2000 linear feet of instream habitat in the Ottawa River and tributaries within Critical Area 1. Objective 3: Restore at least 2000 feet of stream channel in Critical Area 1. Objective 4: Restore at least 20 acres of riparian habitat in the mainstem Ottawa River and tributaries within Critical Area 1.

Part 2: How much of the needed improvement for the whole Critical Area is estimated to be accomplished by this project?

Objective 2: Restore between 500-2000 linear feet of instream habitat in the Ottawa River and tributaries within Critical Area 1 (25-100%). Objective 3: Restore between 500-2000 feet of stream channel in Critical Area 1 (25-100%). Objective 4: Restore between 1.7 and 6.8 acres of 20 acres of riparian habitat in the mainstem Ottawa River and tributaries within Critical Area 1 (8.5-34%) Goals: There is recognition that there is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in Critical Area 1, the main driver is MIwb. Current data shows that the stream in Critical Area 1 is at 6.3 —which is 1 point below the attainment index score of 7.3. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase the MIwb scoring by 0.15 to 0.51 points (or 15 to 50% progress toward the goal).

Part 3: Load reduced?

Estimated: 50–150 lbs P/year and 500–2,000 lbs N/year

criteria i

How will the effectiveness of this project in addressing the NPS impairment be measured?

Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Harroun Rd. sampling site will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from partial attainment to full attainment.

criteria e

Information and Education

This project will be promoted with project signage, press releases, newsletter articles, and neighborhood visits as an important demonstration project to property owners that own property along these critical area creeks and parks. When possible, local schools and universities will be involved in monitoring activities.


4.3 Critical Area 2: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for the Middle Reach of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 The information included in the Critical Area 2 Overview Table is a condensed overview of all identified projects needed for nonpoint source restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 2. Project Summary Sheets are included for short-term projects or any project that is considering seeking funding in the near future. Only those projects with complete Project Summary Sheets will be considered for state and federal NPS program funding.

4.3.1 Critical Area 2: Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Table The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 2 is based on marginal Full Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) sampling site and the Non-Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) sampling site in the Ottawa River. The Critical Area 2 Overview Table provides a quick summary of what needs to be done, where, and what problem (cause/source) will be addressed and includes projects at all levels of development (i.e. concept, need funding, in progress). This Overview Table is intended to show a prioritized path toward the restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12.


50

* Ohio EPA, 2013




(EPA Criteria g)

Lead Organization

(criteria d)





1-8 2,3 2 Wetland Restoration for Storm Water

Filtration to the Ottawa River University of

Toledo Short

(1-3 years) $225,000

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, SOGL


1-8 1 1 Wildwood Metropark Floodplain

Reforestation

Metroparks of the Toledo

Area

Short (1-3 years)

$20,000 Ohio EPA §319,

GLRI, WRRSP, SOGL

1-8 2,3 2 Wetland Restoration for Storm Water

Filtration to the Ottawa River University of

Toledo Short

(1-3 years) $225,000






4.3.2 Critical Area 2: Project Summary Sheet(s) The Project Summary Sheets provided below were developed based on the actions or activities needed to: 1) maintain the attainment status for the Sylvania Ave. (RM 16.8) sampling site in the Ottawa River for its aquatic life use designation, and 2) restore the Edgehill Rd. (RM 14.4) sampling site in the Ottawa River to attainment of its aquatic life use designation. These projects are considered next step or priority/short term projects and are considerably ready to implement. Medium and longer-term projects will most likely not have a Project Summary Sheet or will not have a complete Project Summary Sheet, as these projects are not ready for implementation or need more thorough planning.



Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Wildwood Preserve Floodplain Reforestation

criteria d


Metroparks of the Toledo Area



criteria c Location of Project Wildwood Preserve Metropark (between RM 15.5 and RM 17.5) 41.68357778 N, 83.667119 W


Urban Sediment and Nutrient Reduction Strategies

criteria f


criteria g

Short Description Protect and restore effective riparian buffer in the Ottawa River by increasing canopy cover within Wildwood Preserve Metropark.

criteria g

Project Narrative

Reforestation of approximately 5 acres of the Ottawa River floodplain with 1,000 trees to replace ash trees lost to emerald ash borer. The replacement trees will help to improve water quality, restore habitat in and around the river, aid in erosion control and reduce sediment and nutrient loading caused by stormwater inputs.

criteria d

Estimated Total cost $20,000

criteria d


Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, WRRSP, SOGL

criteria a


Cause: Sedimentation/Siltation

Source: Urban runoff/storm sewers


52


criteria b & h


Objective 1: Restore at least 15 acres of riparian buffer within Critical Area 2.


Objective 1: Restore 5 acres of 15 acres of riparian buffer within Critical Area 2 (33%).

Goals: There is recognition that there is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in Critical Area 2, the main driver is Mlwb. Current data shows that the stream in Critical Area 2 is at 5.6—which is 1.7 points below the attainment index score of 7.3. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase the Mlwb scoring by 0.2 points (or 12% progress toward the goal).


Estimated: 48# P/year, 480# N/year, 30 tons sediment/year

criteria i


Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Sylvania Ave. and Edgehill Rd. sampling sites will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from non-attainment to full attainment.

criteria e


This project will be promoted with project signage, press releases, and newsletter articles.


53



Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Wetland Restoration for Storm Water Filtration to the Ottawa River

criteria d


University of Toledo



criteria c Location of Project Stranahan Arboretum Land (south side of Sylvania Avenue overpass between Sylvania Avenue and I-475) (41°41’26.6”N, 83°40’23.5”W)


Urban Sediment & Nutrient Reduction Altered Stream & Habitat Restoration

criteria f


criteria g

Short Description Install a bioswale along ~500 feet of the Ottawa River and restore ~4.4 acres to natural floodplain

criteria g

Project Narrative

This project will construct a bioswale along a 500 ft. stretch of the Ottawa River. A culvert draining Sylvania Avenue and the Tantara neighborhood will be redirected to the bioswale for the slowing and filtration of stormwater to this area. This project will also restore floodplain (~4.4 acres) along a tributary to the Ottawa River with removal of invasive species and replanting of native floodplain trees and brush.

criteria d


criteria d



criteria a



criteria b & h


Objective 2: Restore at least 20 acres of floodplain wetlands. Objective 3: Implement green infrastructure projects within Critical Area 2 that retain, detain, and/or treat runoff from at least 200 acres of urbanized impermeable surfaces (i.e., parking lots, roads, etc.).


54



Objective 2: Restore 4.4 of 20 acres of floodplain wetlands (22%). Objective 3: Implement green infrastructure projects within Critical Area 2 that retain, detain, and/or treat runoff from 20 acres of 200 acres of urbanized impermeable surfaces (i.e., parking lots, roads, etc.) (10%) Goals: There is recognition that there is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in Critical Area 2, the main driver is MIwb. Current data shows that the stream in Critical Area 2 is at 5.6—which is 1.7 points below the attainment index score of 7.3. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase in the MIwb scoring by 0.2points (or 12% progress toward the goal).



criteria i


Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Sylvania Ave. and Edgehill Rd. sampling sites will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from non-attainment to full attainment.

criteria e


This project will be promoted with press releases, newspaper articles and presentations at research and practitioner venues. The project will provide educational opportunities for visitors to the Stranahan Arboretum as an outreach activity. University of Toledo students will use the site to be educated about restoration projects and field site monitoring post-restoration activities.


4.4 Critical Area 3: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for the Ottawa Hills Floodplain Area of the Ottawa River in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 The information included in the Critical Area 3 Overview Table is a condensed overview of all identified projects needed for nonpoint source restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 3. Project Summary Sheets are included for short-term projects or any project that is considering seeking funding in the near future. Only those projects with complete Project Summary Sheets will be considered for state and federal NPS program funding.

4.4.1 Critical Area 3: Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Table The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 3 is based on maintaining Full Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) sampling site in the Ottawa River and restoring the Partial Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Upstream (Old) Secor Dam (RM 11.8) sampling site in the Ottawa River. The Critical Area 3 Overview Table provides a quick summary of what needs to be done, where, and what problem (cause/source) will be addressed and includes projects at all levels of development (i.e. concept, need funding, in progress). This Overview Table is intended to show a prioritized path toward the restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12.


56

* Ohio EPA, 2013




(EPA Criteria g)

Lead Organization

(criteria d)





1-8 1 1 Ottawa Hills Riparian Restoration Village of

Ottawa Hills Short

(1-3 years) $200,000-$500,000

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, WRRSP, SOGL,

Village of Ottawa Hills, Local

Stakeholders


1-8 1 1 Ottawa Hills Riparian Restoration Village of

Ottawa Hills Short

(1-3 years) $200,000-$500,000

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, WRRSP, SOGL,

Village of Ottawa Hills, Local

Stakeholders





4.4.2 Critical Area 3: Project Summary Sheet(s) The Project Summary Sheets provided below were developed based on the actions or activities needed to: 1) maintain the attainment status of the Bancroft St. (RM 12.2) sampling location in the Ottawa River for its aquatic life use designation, and 2) restore the attainment status of the Upstream (Old) Secor Dam (RM 11.8) sampling site in the Ottawa River for its aquatic life use designation. These projects are considered next step or priority/short term projects and are considerably ready to implement. Medium and longer-term projects will most likely not have a Project Summary Sheet or will not have a complete Project Summary Sheet, as these projects are not ready for implementation or need more thorough planning.



Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Ottawa Hills Riparian Restoration

criteria d


Village of Ottawa Hills


Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 (04100001 03 07): Critical Area 3 (riparian areas)

criteria c Location of Project Ottawa River riparian corridor in the Village of Ottawa Hills (41°39'56.5" N, 83°38'20.1" W)



criteria f


criteria g

Short Description Improve stream morphology and construct planted bio-swales and retention basins along the Ottawa River

criteria g

Project Narrative

The Ottawa River has a degraded riparian habitat in this suburban area. This project will improve water quality and restore habitat in and around the river by addressing riparian restoration in 500-8000 linear feet (1.7 to 25 acres total, with 150 ft width) along the Ottawa River. Planted bioswales and retention basins will be used to control erosion, reduce sediment and contaminant loading, and mitigate stormwater inputs directly to the river.

criteria d

Estimated Total cost $200,000–$500,000

criteria d


Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, WRRSP, Village of Ottawa Hills, Local Stakeholders

criteria a




58


criteria b & h


Objective 1: Restore at least 25 acres of riparian zone within Critical Area 3.


Objective 1: Restore at least 25 acres of riparian zone within Critical Area 3 (between 8-100%, depending on scale of project). Goals: There is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in this critical area, the main driver is QHEI. Current data shows that the Ottawa River in this critical area is at 59.3—which is 0.7 points below the attainment index score of 60. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase in the QHEI scoring by 0.1 to 0.3 point (or 14 to 43% progress toward the goal), with similar incremental gains in IBI, MIwb, and ICI.


Estimated: 200–500 lbs P/year and 1,500–2,500 lbs N/year

criteria i


Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Bancroft St. and Upstream (Old) Secor Dam sampling sites will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from non-attainment to full attainment.

criteria e


Teachers and students at a nearby school will be trained to monitor water quality and habitat at the upstream and downstream ends of the project location. University faculty and students will also be involved as warranted. This project will be promoted with project signage, press releases, newsletter articles, and neighborhood visits as an important demonstration project to property owners that own property along these critical area creeks and parks.


59

4.5 Critical Area 4: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for Hill Ditch in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 The information included in the Critical Area 4 Overview Table is a condensed overview of all identified projects needed for nonpoint source restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 4. Project Summary Sheets are included for short-term projects or any project that is considering seeking funding in the near future. Only those projects with complete Project Summary Sheets will be considered for state and federal NPS program funding.

4.5.1 Critical Area 4: Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Table The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 4 is based on restoring Full Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling sites in Hill Ditch. The Critical Area 4 Overview Table provides a quick summary of what needs to be done, where, and what problem (cause/source) will be addressed and includes projects at all levels of development (i.e. concept, need funding, in progress). This Overview Table is intended to show a prioritized path toward the restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12.


60

* Ohio EPA, 2013




(EPA Criteria g)

Lead Organization

(criteria d)





1-6 1 1 Smith Ditch Overwide Stream Restoration Lucas County

Engineers Short

(1-3 years) $310,000

Ohio EPA §319, GLRI, WRRSP

1-6 1 2 Vanderpool Ditch Overwide Stream

Restoration Lucas County

Engineers Short

(1-3 years) $400,000



1-6 1 1 Smith Ditch Overwide Stream Restoration Lucas County

Engineers Short

(1-3 years) $310,000


1-6 1 2 Vanderpool Ditch Overwide Stream

Restoration Lucas County

Engineers Short

(1-3 years) $400,000






61

4.5.2 Critical Area 4: Project Summary Sheet(s) The Project Summary Sheets provided below were developed based on the actions or activities needed to restore the attainment status of the Carriage Dr. (RM 2.6) and Reynolds Rd. (RM 2.2) sampling sites in Hill Ditch to their aquatic life use designation. These projects are considered next step or priority/short term projects and are considerably ready to implement. Medium and longer-term projects will most likely not have a Project Summary Sheet or will not have a complete Project Summary Sheet, as these projects are not ready for implementation or need more thorough planning.



Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Smith Ditch Overwide Stream Restoration

criteria d


Lucas County Engineers Office



criteria c Location of Project Smith Ditch between McCord and King Roads



criteria f


criteria g

Short Description Construct ~2,000 linear feet of two-stage channel on Smith Ditch.

criteria g

Project Narrative Approximately 2,000 linear feet of Smith Ditch will be reconstructed using two-stage channel design principles to create a secondary “bench” for the assimilation of nonpoint source pollutants (nutrients and sediments).

criteria d


criteria d



criteria a





62


criteria b & h


Objective 1: Install at least 2.0 miles of 2-stage ditches in existing floodplain areas.


Objective 1: Install 0.38 miles of 2.0 miles of 2-stage ditches in existing floodplain areas (19%). Goals: There is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in this critical area, the main driver is ICI. Current data shows that Hill Ditch in this critical area (at Carriage Dr.) is at ~12 (Poor)—which is 10 points below the attainment index score of 22. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase in the QHEI scoring by 0.6 points (or 6% progress toward the goal), with similar incremental gains in IBI and QHEI.



criteria i


Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Carriage Dr. sampling site will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from non-attainment to full attainment.

criteria e




63



Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Vanderpool Ditch Overwide Stream Restoration

criteria d


Lucas County Engineers Office



criteria c Location of Project W. Bancroft St. between McCord and King Roads



criteria f


criteria g

Short Description Construct ~2,600 linear feet of two-stage channel on Smith Ditch.

criteria g

Project Narrative Approximately 2,600 linear feet of Vanderpool Ditch will be reconstructed using two-stage channel design principles to create a secondary “bench” for the assimilation of nonpoint source pollutants (nutrients and sediments).

criteria d


criteria d



criteria a




criteria b & h


Objective 1: Install at least 2.0 miles of 2-stage ditches in existing floodplain areas.


64



Objective 1: Install 0.49 miles of 2.0 miles of 2-stage ditches in existing floodplain areas (25%). Goals: There is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in this critical area, the main driver is ICI. Current data shows that Hill Ditch in this critical area (at Carriage Dr.) is at ~12 (Poor)—which is 10 points below the attainment index score of 22. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase in the QHEI scoring by 0.8 points (or 8% progress toward the goal), with similar incremental gains in IBI and QHEI.



criteria i


Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Carriage Dr. sampling site will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from non-attainment to full attainment.

criteria e




4.6 Critical Area 5: Overview Table and Project Sheet(s) for Heldman Ditch and Tributaries in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 The information included in the Critical Area 5 Overview Table is a condensed overview of all identified projects needed for nonpoint source restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 5. Project Summary Sheets are included for short-term projects or any project that is considering seeking funding in the near future. Only those projects with complete Project Summary Sheets will be considered for state and federal NPS program funding.

4.6.1 Critical Area 5: Project and Implementation Strategy Overview Table The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 5 is based on restoring Full Attainment status of the aquatic life use designation at the Dorr St. (RM 0.7) sampling location in Zink Ditch and maintaining Full Attainment status at the Hill Ave. (RM 2.7) and Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) sampling locations in Heldman Ditch. The Critical Area 5 Overview Table provides a quick summary of what needs to be done, where, and what problem (cause/source) will be addressed and includes projects at all levels of development (i.e. concept, need funding, in progress). This Overview Table is intended to show a prioritized path toward the restoration of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12.


66

* Ohio EPA, 2013




(EPA Criteria g)

Lead Organization

(criteria d)





1 1 Keil Farm Floodplain Restoration and

Enhancement


Area

Short (1-3 years)

$500,000 Ohio EPA §319,

GLRI, WRRSP, SOGL

2 2 Zink Ditch Overwide Stream Resotration Lucas County

Engineers Long

(7+ years) $400,000



1 1 Keil Farm Floodplain Restoration and

Enhancement


Area

Short (1-3 years)

$500,000 Ohio EPA §319,

GLRI, WRRSP, SOGL

2 2 Zink Ditch Overwide Stream Resotration Lucas County

Engineers Long

(7+ years) $400,000






67

4.6.2 Critical Area 5: Project Summary Sheet(s) The Project Summary Sheets provided below were developed based on the actions or activities needed to: 1) restore the attainment status of the Dorr St. (RM 0.7) sampling location in Zink Ditch to its aquatic life use designation, and 2) maintain the Hill Ave. (RM 2.7) and Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) sampling locations in Heldman Ditch in their aquatic life use designation. These projects are considered next step or priority/short term projects and are considerably ready to implement. Medium and longer-term projects will most likely not have a Project Summary Sheet or will not have a complete Project Summary Sheet, as these projects are not ready for implementation or need more thorough planning.



Information needed

Explanation

n/a Title Keil Farm Floodplain Restoration and Enhancement

criteria d


Metroparks of the Toledo Area



criteria c Location of Project 41.64211944 N, 83.6035 W



criteria f


criteria g

Short Description Floodplain restoration and enhancement along Deline and Heldman Ditches.

criteria g

Project Narrative

Increase flood storage capacity along Deline and Heldman ditches by excavating/expanding the existing floodplains. Excavated areas will be restored to a mixture of deep water, shallow water and emergent wetlands (~30 acres total).

criteria d


criteria d



criteria a





68


criteria b & h


Objective 2: Restore at least 70 acres of floodplain wetlands.


Objective 2: Restore 30 acres of at least 70 acres of floodplain wetlands (43%). Goals: There is lag time associated with nonpoint source-related projects and measured stream response. With respect to the goals in this critical area, the main driver is QHEI at the Heldman RM 2.7 site. Current data shows that Heldman Ditch in this critical area is at 39—which is 6 points below the attainment index score of 43. It is expected that this project will cause an incremental increase in the QHEI scoring by 2 points (or 33% progress toward the goal), with similar incremental gains in IBI and ICI.


Estimated: 12#P/year, 120# N/year, 7.5 tons sediment/year

criteria i


Staff from the OEPA-DSW Ecological Assessment Unit will perform both pre- and post-project monitoring. The Edgevale Rd. (RM 0.2) sampling site will be monitored as part of the State of Ohio’s ongoing surface water monitoring program cycle to determine progress from non-attainment to full attainment.

criteria e




69

Works Cited Breen, K.J. and D.H. Dumouchelle. (1991). Geohydrology and Quality of Water in Lucas, Sandusky, and Wood Counties, Northwestern Ohio. U.S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Investigations Report 91-4024. Columbus, Ohio. Henry, T. (2017). Ottawa River Showing Signs of a Comeback. The Blade. Retrieved on 06 21, 2017 from The Blade: http://www.toledoblade.com/local/2017/04/05/Ottawa-River-finally-showing-signs-of-a-comeback-Ohio-EPA-director-says-state-advisories-against-eating-all-caught-fish-reduced.html. Homer, C. D. (2015). Completion of the 2011 National Land Cover Database for the conterminous United States-

Representing a decade of land cover change information. Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing, v.

81, no. 5, p. 345-354.

Lucas County. (2017). AREIS Database. Retrieved on 01 02, 2017 from Lucas County:

http://co.lucas.oh.us/377/AREIS-Information.

Mannik and Smith Group, Inc. (2008). Ottawa River Habitat Restoration Inventory. Retrieved on 06 20, 2017 from

TMACOG:

http://www.tmacog.org/Environment/Ottawa_River_Habitat/Ottawa_River_Habitat_Restoration_Inventory.pdf.

Maumee RAP. (2006). Maumee Area of Concern (AOC) Stage 2 Watershed Restoration Plan . Toledo.

Metroparks of the Toledo Area. (2017). Explore Your Parks: Wildwood. Retrieved on 06 21, 2017, from

Metroparks of the Toledo Area: https://metroparkstoledo.com/explore-your-parks/wildwood/.

Ohio EPA. (2009). Biological and Water Quality Study of Swan Creek and Selected Tributaries, 2006 (Ohio EPA

Technical Report EAS/ 2008-12-11). Columbus: Ohio EPA.

Ohio EPA. (2013). Ohio’s Nonpoint Source Management Plan Update (FY 2017-2018). Retrieved 01 31, 2017 from

Ohio EPA: http://www.epa.ohio.gov/portals/35/nps/nps_mgmt_plan.pdf.

Ohio EPA. (2015). Biological and Water Quality Study of Tenmile Creek and the Ottawa River, 2011 (Ohio EPA

Technical Report EAS/ 2014-06-06). Columbus: Ohio EPA.

Ohio EPA. (2016). 2016 Integrated Water Quality and Monitoring Report. Retrieved on 12 10, 2016 from Ohio EPA:

http://wwwapp.epa.ohio.gov/gis/mapportal/IR2016.html.

Partners for Clean Streams. (2012). Restoring Ottawa River Wetlands and In-Stream Habitat at Camp Miakonda.

Retrieved 06 20, 2017 from Partners for Clean Streams:

http://www.partnersforcleanstreams.org/Miakonda%20GLRI%20Fact%20Sheet(1-25-12).pdf.

Partners for Clean Streams. (2016). Maumee RAP and AOC. Retrieved 12 28, 2016, from Partners for Clean

Streams: http://www.partnersforcleanstreams.org/about/maumee-rap-and-aoc.

Partners for Clean Streams. (2017). Maumee AOC Data Management and Delisting System. Retrieved 01 19, 2017,

from Maumee AOC Advisory Committee: http://dmds.maumeerap.org/.


70

The Nature Conservancy. (2017). Living in the Oak Openings: A Guide to One of the World's Last Great Places.

Retrieved on 01 19, 2017 from The Nature Conservancy: http://oakopenings.org/news/3rd-edition-of-the-living-

in-the-oak-openings/.

Toledo Botanical Gardens. (2017). Lake Renovation Project. Retrieved on 06 21, 2017 from Toledo Botanical

Gardens: http://www.toledogarden.org/lake-renovation-project/.

Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments. (2013). Area Water Quality Management Plan. 208 Plan.

Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments. Toledo, Ohio.

Toledo Waterways Initiative. (2017). Toledo Waterways Initiative: Making Our Rivers Cleaner. Retrieved 03 16,

2017, from Toledo Waterways Initiative: http://www.toledowaterwaysinitiative.com.

University of Toledo. (2017). Stranahan Arboretum. Retrieved on 06 20, 2017 from University of Toledo:

http://www.utoledo.edu/nsm/arboretum/.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (2009). Ottawa River Watershed Assessment. Retrieved 05 30, 2017 from Western

Lake Erie Basin Partnership: http://wleb.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Ottawa-Watershed-Final-

Assessment-091509.pdf.

U.S. EPA. (2008). Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters. Washington, DC.

Retrieved on 12 28, 2016 from U.S. EPA: https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-

09/documents/2008_04_18_nps_watershed_handbook_handbook-2.pdf.

Appendices


Appendix A: Acronyms and Abbreviations The acronyms and abbreviations below are commonly used by organizations working to restore Ohio’s watersheds; many of which are included in this NPS-IS plan. A AOC Area of Concern B BMP Best Management Practice BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand C CSO Combined Sewer Overflow D DELT Deformities, Eroded Fins, Lesions, and Tumors DNR Department of Natural Resources E EOLP Erie-Ontario Lake Plain Ecoregion EWH Exceptional Warmwater Habitat G GIS Geographical Information System H HELP Huron-Erie Lake Plain Ecoregion Hg Mercury HUC Hydrologic Unit Code I IBI Index of Biotic Integrity ICI Invertebrate Community Index L LRW Limited Resource Water M Mg/l Milligrams per Liter MGD Million Gallons per Day MIwb Modified Index of Well Being MWH Modified Warmwater Habitat N NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System


O ODA Ohio Department of Agriculture ODNR Ohio Department of Natural Resources ODH Ohio Department of Health OEPA Ohio Environmental Protection Agency P PAH Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls Q QHEI Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index R RAP Remedial Action Plan S SSO Sanitary Sewer Overflow SWCD Soil and Water Conservation District T TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load Limits TSD Technical Support Document U µg/kg Micrograms per Kilogram USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USDA United States Department of Agriculture USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey USPC United States Policy Committee V VAP Voluntary Action Program W WAP Watershed Action Plan WBP Watershed Based Plan WC Watershed Characterization WQ Water Quality WQS Water Quality Standards (Ohio Administrative Code 3745-1) WRAS Watershed Restoration Action Strategy WWH Warmwater Habitat WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant


Appendix B: Index of Tables and Figures

Index of Tables Table 1: Protected Lands in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. ...................................................................... 7

Table 2: Land Use Classifications for Selected Watersheds within the Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10

(Homer, 2015). ................................................................................................................................................. 9

Table 3: Overall Biological Indices Scores for Selected Sites in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 and Adjacent

Watersheds (Ohio EPA, 2015; Partners For Clean Streams, 2017). ............................................................... 11

Table 4: Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index (QHEI) Matrix with Warmwater Habitat (WWH) and Modified

Warmwater (MWH) Attribute Totals in Selected Ottawa River Watersheds (Ohio EPA, 2015 and Partners

for Clean Streams, 2017). .............................................................................................................................. 14

Table 5: Causes and Sources of NPS Impairments for Selected Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10 Sampling

Locations (Ohio EPA, 2015). ........................................................................................................................... 15

Table 6: Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area Identification. ............................................................... 17

Table 7: Identifiers and Descriptions for Sample Locations in Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Areas. 19

Table 8: Critical Area 1 - Fish Community and Habitat Data (Ohio EPA, 2015). ......................................................... 21

Table 9: Critical Area 1 - Macroinvertebrate Community Data (Ohio EPA, 2015). ..................................................... 21

Table 10: Summary Data for Critical Area 1 (Ohio EPA, 2015). .................................................................................. 22

Table 11: Critical Area 2 - Fish Community and Habitat Data (Ohio EPA, 2015). ....................................................... 25

Table 12: Critical Area 2 - Macroinvertebrate Community Data (Ohio EPA, 2015). ................................................... 26





Table 17: Critical Area 4 - Fish Community and Habitat Data (Partners for Clean Streams, 2017). ........................... 36

Table 18: Critical Area 4 - Macroinvertebrate Community Data (Partners for Clean Streams, 2017). ...................... 36

Table 19: Summary Data for Critical Area 4 (Partners for Clean Streams, 2017). ...................................................... 37

Table 20: Heldman Ditch and Tributaries in Critical Area 5. ....................................................................................... 39




Index of Figures/Photos Figure 1: Location of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 within the Maumee Area of Concern ...................... 1

Figure 2: River Mile Map of the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12. ...................................................................... 1

Figure 3: The Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 in Relation to the Historic Oak Openings Region and Historic

Great Black Swamp .......................................................................................................................................... 3

Figure 4: Prairie Restoration at the Olander Park System's Sylvan Prairie Park. .......................................................... 3

Figure 5: HUC-12 Subwatersheds within the Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10. ............................................... 6

Figure 6: The Ottawa River Entering Wildwood Preserve Metropark. ......................................................................... 7

Figure 7: Publicly Owned Parks and Protected Lands in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 ............................ 8

Figure 8: Land Use in the Ottawa River-Frontal Lake Erie HUC-10.. ............................................................................. 9


Figure 9: Toledo Urbanized Area as Defined by the 2010 Census .............................................................................. 10

Figure 10: Sampling Locations and Attainment Status in Selected Locations in the Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River

Watershed and Adjacent Watersheds. .......................................................................................................... 12

Figure 11: Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Areas. ................................................................................ 18

Figure 12: Heldman Ditch-Ottawa River HUC-12 Critical Area 1 ................................................................................ 20

Figure 13: Forested Floodplain of the Ottawa River Owned by the Village of Ottawa Hills ...................................... 24



Figure 16: Toledo Botanical Gardens Major Stream Restoration ............................................................................... 34

