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  • Central Ohio’s Big Darby Creek State and National Scenic River is one of the most biologically diverse aquatic systems in the Midwest.
  • The Nature Conservancy’s 800-acre Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve protects the humble springs and streams that are the lifeblood of Big Darby Creek.
  • The preserve encompasses a mixture of wetlands, old farm fields and riparian forests that help sustain the Big Darby Creek watershed, named by the Ohio EPA as “…one of Ohio’s most valued natural resources.”
  • In spring of 2008, the Conservancy opened Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve to the public.
  • The preserve features a handicap-accessible trail and interpretive signage showcasing the importance of the headwaters. We invite you to explore the preserve’s beautiful wildlife!
  • Wetlands at the preserve support such plant species as marsh marigold, skunk cabbage, trillium, jack-in-the-pulpit and cottonwood and, along with the surrounding forests, sustain wild turkey, eastern screech owls and great crested flycatchers.
  • The Conservancy is working to protect the headwaters of Big Darby Creek from the many threats it faces, including invasive species and man-made changes to natural stream flow.
  • The Conservancy relies on dedicated volunteers to manage invasive species like honey suckle so that native plants may thrive.
  • In 2011 the Conservancy completed a 4-year-long project to restore more than 7,000 feet of stream. The restoration work creates a more natural stream flow and improves aquatic habitat. View a slideshow of the restoration!
  • We need your help! Support our efforts at the Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve.
Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve