The inception of Blanchard River Watershed Partnership (BRWP) began from a lunch meeting between the OSU Extension West District Watershed Agent, the Hancock County Development Services Director (position phased out i and the Interim Hancock County Regional Planning Director on Dec. 13th, 2002. Discussions revolved around local issues including flooding, a greenways project, agriculture, water quality and the need for a unification of collaborative efforts already occurring.
Eventually many stakeholders came together including representatives from 4 primary counties and agencies in the watershed: Hancock, Putnam, Allen and Hardin counties. Regular meetings began in November of 2003 leading to the groups’ initial declaration of being identified as an informal group called the Blanchard River Watershed Partnership.

In spring, 2006, the BRWP began the process of seeking 501(c)(3) status from the United States Internal Revenue Service. The granting of this designation would assure that the BRWP is operating as a non-profit organization. That would allow membership fees, donations and in-kind contributions to be tax deductible for the donor. The application process is lengthy and is in the pending stages as of August 1, 2006.

Outreach Efforts

In its brief existence, the BRWP has undertaken efforts in getting the public involved in caring for the Blanchard River watershed.

• In August, 2005, the BRWP hosted a field trip for the public. The Ohio EPA was conducting a fish count on the Blanchard River at Blanchard Landing adjacent to State Route 235 in Hancock County. For well over an hour, EPA employees explained and fielded questions regarding the fish count, their work and water quality.

• In May, 2006, the BRWP hosted a public watershed forum at The University of Findlay. Topics focused on the water quality of the Blanchard River and some its tributaries. Nearly 100 people were in attendance to view watershed-related displays and hear presentations by Steve Davis, Resource Conservationist with the Lima branch of the USDA-NRCS; Katie McKibben, Nonpoint Source Program Specialist; Ohio EPA-Northwest District Office Division of Surface Water, Mylynda Shaskus; Ohio EPA Division of Surface Water and Dr. Michael Homsher, Associate Professor, The University of Findlay School of Environmental and Emergency Management.

• Two-hour educational canoe floats were hosted in June and July, 2006.