Spotlight on the Mill Creek Watershed

Mahoning County, OH – The Mill Creek Watershed is one of the most important natural resources in our region, spanning 47,000 acres and draining 78 square miles across central Mahoning and northern Columbiana Counties. It encompasses portions of Austintown, Beaver, Boardman, Canfield, Fairfield, and Green Townships, along with the cities of Canfield, Columbiana, and Youngstown.

At its heart lies Mill Creek, which flows through the historic Mill Creek Park—a treasured greenspace established in 1891 that continues to provide recreation, wildlife habitat, and scenic beauty to the community.

Land use within the watershed is diverse. The northern portion is heavily urbanized with industrial, commercial, and residential development, while the southern portion features more rural residential and agricultural areas. This combination makes the watershed a commercial hub for Mahoning County, but it also brings challenges for maintaining water quality.

Here in Northeast Ohio, we are fortunate to have abundant freshwater resources. Protecting the Mill Creek Watershed is essential for ensuring clean drinking water, preserving recreational opportunities, and safeguarding the natural beauty that defines our community.

Together, we can make a difference in protecting our watersheds for future generations.

Photo: Mill Creek Watershed
Courtesy of Eastgate Regional Council of Governments