Community Spotlight: Crawford County Soil & Water tree & fish sales, pond care & H2Ohio program info

BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Spring is in the air, and the Crawford Soil and Water Conservation District is gearing up for a busy season, offering residents a variety of services and sales.

Mike Hall, representing the Crawford Soil and Water Conservation District, spoke with local radio host Randy Bigley, highlighting ongoing initiatives. The district’s annual tree sale is nearing its end, with orders being taken online at crawfordswcd.org or by calling the office at 419-562-8280. These bare-root trees are native to Ohio and acclimated to the local climate.

Additionally, the district’s fish fingerling sale for pond stocking is open for orders until April 25. Residents can find order forms and information about stocking rates for various fish species on the district’s website or by contacting the office.

For landowners participating in the H2Ohio program, which addresses algal blooms in Lake Erie, the district is hosting informational meetings about the new contract period for crop years 2026 and 2027. These meetings will cover changes to program requirements and payments. Meetings will be held April 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and April 3 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., both at the Bucyrus Public Library community room. Light meals and materials will be provided.

As pond season approaches, the district is offering advice on pond management. Hall stressed the importance of identifying weed species before treatment and determining the correct herbicide dosage based on pond volume. He noted that accurate depth measurements are crucial for effective treatment.

“Now is the time to be treating for those in this March, April time period,” Hall said.

The district also provides site visits for existing and prospective pond owners, offering soil evaluations and guidance on pond construction.

“If you’re thinking about putting in a pond and starting a construction project, we strongly encourage” contacting the district, Hall said.

Residents can find more information on the Crawford Soil and Water Conservation District’s website at crawfordswcd.org or by calling the office. The office is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.