Black River Area of Concern (AOC)
The Black River was once known for the mighty ships that were built on its banks. Along with steel and coal utilizing the banks and shoreline, this was Lorain's lifeblood. State, federal, and local efforts continue to help work towards the goal of delisting the Black River Area Of Concern (AOC), with a goal of delisting in 2026.
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Lorain County Conservation District has taken on the important role of facilitating the Black River Area of Concern Advisory Committee. With a proven commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, the District is poised to continue leading the collaborative efforts in restoring and preserving the ecological health of the Black River watershed.
What is an Area of Concern (AOC)?
​The Black River was designated as an Area of Concern (AOC) in 1987 and local, state, and federal partners have worked together in working toward completing all management actions, with the final step officially completed June 6, 2024. The Black River AOC has 3 Beneficial Use Impairments (BUIs) that remain impaired & are currently being evaluated:
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Degradation of Fish Populations
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Degradation of Benthos Populations
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Loss of Fish Habitat
Black River Advisory Committee's primary goal is to remove the Black River from the US EPA's Area Of Concern (AOC) list. The Advisory Committee meets quarterly & is made up of city, state, and federal entities, non-profit organizations, private citizens, and other Black River stakeholders. Lorain County Conservation District (Lorain SWCD) receives grant support from the Ohio EPA and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), to assist the committee with funding requests, meeting coordination, and project outreach along the lower six miles of the Black River. Ohio Lake Erie Commission (OLEC) provides technical support in ensuring goals & deadlines are met.
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The Black River watershed is located primarily within Lorain and Medina Counties, with small portions extending into Cuyahoga, Ashland, and Huron Counties. It ultimately drains into Lake Erie in the city of Lorain.
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While the entire mainstem of the Black River is 15 miles long, the Black River AOC Advisory Committee's main focus is on the Lower Black River. Starting at the mouth of the river where it drains into Lake Erie and going 6.5 miles upriver to where French Creek flows into the river is the main area of focus.
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Click the photos for more information
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