LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION Fallsville Wildlife Area is in southwest Ohio, seven miles north of Hillsboro on State Route 73. The 1,382-acre wildlife area is almost 50 percent meadow and grain crops. About 20 percent of the area is a mixture of shrubs, small trees, grasses, and forbs and almost 30 percent is woodland. Six shallow ponds are located on the area.
HISTORY AND PURPOSE The initial purchase of land for this area began in 1957. Because the area is in the productive agricultural section of Highland County, it has been managed primarily for species of wildlife associated with farm land. Wildlife management to improve habitat has included development of crop rotations and field sizes to provide food and cover for upland wildlife. Wildlife habitat has been enhanced by planting trees and shrubs to establish field dividers, improving existing fencerows through selective cutting, and protecting and improving woodlands.
FISH AND WILDLIFE Good populations of bass and bluegill are present in ponds on the area.
Cottontail rabbit, ring-necked pheasant, bobwhite quail, fox and gray squirrels, woodchuck, and white-tailed deer are the major game species. Waterfowl are most common during migration. Common furbearers are raccoon, opossum, muskrat, mink, weasel, skunk, and red and gray foxes.
A great variety of both nesting and migrant birds use the area. The spring migration of waterfowl and songbirds and the fall migration of hawks are of special interest. A variety of songbirds are on the area all year. Observing these birds provides recreation and enjoyment for many visitors.
HUNTING, TRAPPING, AND FISHING Fallsville is popular for rabbit and pheasant hunting. Fox squirrels can be found in mature timber and woodlots, and along the fencerows. Gray squirrels are more abundant in the large tracts of bigger timber. Jump-shooting for ducks on the ponds is often productive. Night hunting is popular for raccoon and fox, and trapping for muskrat and mink is productive along the streams and pond banks.
Largemouth bass and bluegill are the principal fish species stocked in ponds on this area and good catches of both are reported. The old quarry also provides good fishing.
UNUSUAL FEATURES A scenic waterfall and former old mill site are located on Clear Creek, which flows through the area.
PUBLIC USE FACILITIES Parking lots are situated throughout the area. A designated shotgun-only target area and a dog training area are maintained for year-round use.
Any questions please call Ohio Land expert Brian Bauer (614) 949-6764
