About Ohio's Scenic Rivers Program
Scenic Rivers is a program within the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves.
The mission of the Ohio Scenic Rivers Program is to work cooperatively with local governments, businesses, landowners, non-profit organizations and other state and federal agencies to protect the aquatic resources and terrestrial communities dependent on healthy riparian habitats.
Ohio currently has 15 designated Wild, Scenic and/or Recreational rivers comprising 27 stream segments. More than 830 river miles are protected in the Ohio scenic river system. Three state-designated streams — the Little Miami River, Big and Little Darby Creeks, and Little Beaver Creek — are also designated as National Scenic Rivers.
Advisory Councils
Upon designation of a river as wild, scenic or recreational, the director of ODNR appoints a 10-member Scenic River Advisory Council that represents local interests within the watershed. Members often include private citizens, local government officials, conservation organizations and property owners. Scenic River advisory councils advise ODNR on local attitudes, interests, and areas of concern related to the preservation of a designated river.
Stream Quality Monitoring
Rivers and streams in the Ohio Scenic Rivers program are monitored regularly to ensure that the water quality remains high. Learn more about stream quality monitoring (SQM) and how you can volunteer to become a SQM Monitor.