Cincinnati Begins Largest Park Reforestation in 100 Years

A Cincinnati park is getting a complete forest makeover, and it could change how cities across America restore their green spaces.

Cincinnati Parks just launched its largest reforestation project since the 1930s at French Park in Amberely Village. The ambitious multi-year effort will transform 228 acres of woodland that's become choked by invasive plants like honeysuckle and burning bush.

An anonymous donor gave $1.8 million to make it happen. The gift covers everything from removing invasive species to planting native trees and improving hiking trails across the 280-acre park.

"All too often invasive species have made our woods so crowded that you literally can't even see the forest for the invasive trees," said Cincinnati Parks Director Jason Barron. "We are going to completely restore these woods to the way they ought to be."

Mayor Aftab Pureval highlighted why green spaces matter so much. "Some of our most valuable public assets are not buildings or roads, but the natural places that make our communities healthier, more vibrant, and more connected," he said in a statement.

The project brings back wildlife habitat that's been lost to invasive plants. Native trees will replace the tangle of foreign species that crowd out local plants and animals.

Crews have already started clearing work in parts of the park. The donation also funds a dedicated Natural Resource Specialist position for five years to guide the restoration.

The Ripple Effect

Cincinnati Parks Foundation says this project could become a model for restoring urban forests throughout Cincinnati and beyond. Once crews perfect the process at French Park, they'll expand it to other city forests.

That means thousands more acres could get the same treatment. Urban forests improve air quality, reduce heat, prevent flooding, and give families free access to nature.

French Park already draws visitors to its hiking trails and event spaces. The restoration will make it even more welcoming while supporting the plants and animals that call it home.

Cities nationwide struggle with invasive species taking over their forests, so Cincinnati's blueprint could help communities far beyond Ohio restore their own green spaces for generations to come.