The Ohio Division of Wildlife has closed the access road and boat ramp at the Little Portage Wildlife Area in the Port Clinton area for restoration efforts and improved water management. A new parking area will be constructed off Darr-Hopfinger Road to provide continued safe and convenient access to the wildlife area.

Little Portage Wildlife Area is popular among waterfowl hunters. During the early goose and teal hunting season, as well as the regular waterfowl season, hunters may park at the east end of the property to access the area. The wildlife area will remain open to hunters, although hunting opportunities may be impacted by construction activities and low water levels.

Little Portage Wildlife Area is 407 acres and lies six miles west of Port Clinton. It is bounded on the west by the Little Portage River and on the north by the Portage River. The area boasts a diverse and delicate ecosystem, primarily river marsh.

Closure of the public road and boat ramp will minimize disturbance to wildlife that call the area home. The project is expected to be completed this winter.

The Little Portage Wildlife Area is the site of an ongoing H2Ohio project to restore wetland habitat. This project will revitalize the area’s ecosystem and improve water quality for the benefit of the surrounding communities. As part of the restoration efforts, the existing road will be removed and replaced with a water distribution channel to allow for better water level management.