MOHICAN-MALABAR MASTER PLAN

NORTHERN OHIO

The Mohican-Malabar Concept Plan is a long-term vision of how an 804,000 acre area between Columbus and Cleveland can be improved for increased conservation, preservation, education, and recreational opportunities.  Commissioned by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Behnke inventoried and analyzed most of the Mohican River watershed to ascertain its natural and cultural features.  Public input was sought on numerous occasions and in various manners, including the use of surveys, workshops, open houses, and meetings.

Three concept plans at graduated scales were developed:

The ‘Big Picture’ proposes a 15-mile long recreational trail between Mohican State Park, Pleasant Hill Lake and Malabar Farm State Park along the Black Fork of the Mohican River.  

The ‘Bigger Picture’ proposes a regional system of recreational trails, scenic rivers, and farmland preservation.  

The ‘Biggest Picture’ proposes a 75-mile long greenway between Mansfield and Newcomerstown. The plan also includes new regional Visitor’s Center at Mohican State Park, new administrative and maintenance facilities, trail improvements, and acquisition of additional property from willing sellers.