Lake Renovation Project

The following information, including photos below, are to update the public on the process of our Lake Renovation Project, which began Fall 2012.

Pictures from our Media Event, 5-9-13

Pictures from our Planting Event, 4-6-13

Pictures of our Redesigned Crosby Lake & Stream, 1-30-13

Crosby Lakes, here at the Toledo Botanical Garden, are man-made lakes that were created by building two dams in Hill Ditch in 1988. The initial depths of the upper and lower lakes ranged from 6 to 15 feet.

Over the past 20 years, the lakes have trapped an estimated 28,000 cubic yards of sediment. Many of the areas in the upper lake have filled in to become low islands where invasive plant species have established themselves. In the lower, larger lake, many areas have filled in so much that geese can often be seen walking in the shallow water far from shore .

TBG was successful in receiving an Ohio EPA 319(h) Nonpoint Source Pollution Control grant in the Fall of 2012 to implement the Crosby Lakes and Hill Ditch Restoration Project. The objectives are to:

  • Improve the biological & chemical water quality
  • Restore a natural stream channel
  • Expand and enhance wetlands
  • Enhance portions of Crosby Lake
  • Create a sustainable system

All of these will be accomplished through a project that will:

  • Adhere to the TBG Master Plan
  • Educate the public on sustainable natural ecosystems
  • Provide a place where people can interact directly with a high-quality natural stream, wetlands, and a rejuvenated Crosby Lake

Click for a video that was taken 11.17.12.