Ducks Unlimited to Dedicate Restored Toussaint Wildlife Area Wetland Project

Daily Dose  |  07/21/2026 11:00 am

Ducks Unlimited (DU), the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), generous conservation partners, donors, and volunteers will gather Aug. 25 to celebrate the official dedication of the Toussaint Creek Wildlife Area wetland restoration project, recognizing years of collaborative conservation work that has restored and enhanced one of northwest Ohio's important coastal wetland landscapes.

The dedication commemorates the successful restoration of 125 acres of wetland habitat within the Toussaint Creek Wildlife Area near Oak Harbor. The project came together through a partnership between DU, ODNR Division of Wildlife, the Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Their work together improves habitat for migrating waterfowl and other wildlife while enhancing water quality, strengthening wetland resilience, and supporting the long-term health of Lake Erie's coastal ecosystem.

"This project represents what can be accomplished when dedicated partners work together toward a common conservation goal," said Russ Terry, Senior Regional Biologist with DU. "The restoration at Toussaint Creek will provide lasting benefits for wildlife, water quality, and outdoor recreation while preserving an important piece of Ohio's natural heritage for generations to come."

The dedication will bring together Ducks Unlimited supporters, project partners, conservation professionals, public officials, volunteers, and major donors whose collective support made the project possible. Following the dedication ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to tour the restored wetland and see firsthand how conservation investments are improving habitat along Ohio's Lake Erie coast.

Located within one of North America's most significant migratory bird corridors, the Toussaint Creek Wildlife Area provides critical habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, marsh birds, fish, amphibians, and numerous other wildlife species. The restoration also contributes to improved water quality entering western Lake Erie by restoring natural wetland functions that filter nutrients, store floodwaters, and improve ecosystem health.

"This dedication is more than the celebration of a completed project," said Ohio Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. "It celebrates the partnerships, generosity, and shared commitment that continue to make large-scale conservation possible across Ohio."

The event also recognizes the many private donors, volunteers, agency partners, and conservation organizations whose support has helped Ducks Unlimited deliver meaningful conservation outcomes throughout Ohio.

WHAT: Toussaint Creek Wildlife Area Wetland Restoration Dedication

WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 @ 6 p.m.

WHERE: Toussaint Creek Wildlife Area

Oak Harbor, Ohio

Following the ceremony, media will have the opportunity to interview project partners and tour portions of the restored wetland.