West Chester Township is transferring more than 70 acres of land to MetroParks of Butler County for long-term conservation and public use. Under an agreement approved by the township trustees on April 14th, about 71 acres along Mill Creek and the Miami-Erie Canal Path will be preserved as permanent greenspace.

Township officials say the land will remain open to the public for passive recreation, including walking and birdwatching, while being protected as a natural habitat. Township Administrator Lisa Brown says MetroParks has a strong track record of balancing conservation with public access, and the partnership will help ensure the property is both preserved and accessible.
MetroParks of Butler County will take over maintenance of the site and oversee any future improvements. The agency has already secured grant funding and is working with the City of Fairfield and private partners to build a parking area to improve access. MetroParks officials say the project reflects a shared effort to protect natural spaces while expanding outdoor opportunities for the community.

(Editor's Note: AI-Assisted Copy)