Findlay, Ohio - The University of Findlay will host a “Public Forum On The Blanchard River” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, in the Alumni Memorial Union. The event will present new information about the Blanchard watershed, a vital water source for seven counties in northwest Ohio. Doors open at 6:30 pm. for registration and exhibits.

State and local officials will answer questions and give information about studies being completed on water quality and conditions of the river. Representatives from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency offices in Columbus and Bowling Green, along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service, will present preliminary findings of assessments on erosion and sediments, fish quality and future threats possible along the river.

Owens Community College and the University will also present a case study of the Blanchard River from Cory Street in Findlay to River Landings with a video. More than 100 students recently took part in a river clean-up day April 27 with some interesting results to share. Displays and exhibits by various state and local conservation groups will be available for viewing, along with information about the new Watershed Partnership.

Landowners, water users, sportsmen and river recreation enthusiasts are encouraged to attend the forum. The free, public event is sponsored by the University and the Blanchard River Watershed Partnership.

Learn more about the watershed online at www.BlanchardRiver.org or contact the Hancock Park District Headquarters for reaching local representatives to get involved at 419-425-7275.