Valley Run Wildlife Area

LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
This 304-acre wildlife area is located in central Carroll County, 2.5 miles northwest of Carrollton and 1.0 mile southeast of New Harrisburg on Bacon Road (CR 24). The area lies in the unglaciated foothills of the Allegheny Plateau hill region of Ohio.

The topography is best described as gently to moderately rolling. The soils are mostly well drained and of medium productivity. Second growth hardwoods occupy 80 percent of the area.

HISTORY AND PURPOSE
This wildlife area was originally part of the adjacent Harrison Hills Campground and was originally slated for development as campsites. Most of the wildlife area was purchased from the county in 2000. Carroll County retained timber rights and selectively cut timber on the wildlife area in 2001. Presently the area is primarily wooded, although 15 percent is in a brushy or open habitat. The woodland consists of mainly mixed oak, hickory, cherry, and maple of mostly mature size trees. Index of Ohio's trees from the Division of Forestry. The land slopes moderately towards a small stream known as “Valley Run” by the local residents. This stream flows through a narrow bottomland dominated by young walnut and ash trees.

FISH AND WILDLIFE
Wildlife found on the area are common forest species including wild turkeys, ruffed grouse, fox-squirrels, and white-tailed deer. The cottontail rabbit and all furbearers common to the region are also found on the area. Woodland songbirds can be seen in abundance during the spring and fall migrations. Songbirds present include kingfishers, wood ducks, pileated woodpeckers, crested flycatchers, catbirds, Northern orioles, and red-tailed hawks. Many reptiles and amphibians can also be found here such as Eastern box turtles, and spring peepers.

UNUSUAL FEATURES
This area remains largely undeveloped except for several dirt roads throughout the interior that remain as evidence of past logging operations. These roads allow excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities for the public.

PUBLIC USE FACILITIES
County and township roads provide good access to the wildlife area. A small parking lot is located along Bacon Road (CR 24) approximately 1/2 mile northeast of the intersection with Glory Road (TR 155).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Further information may be obtained from the Area Manager, Highlandtown Wildlife Area, 16760 Spring Valley Road, Salineville, Ohio 43945; telephone (330) 679-2201 or from the Wildlife District Three Office, 912 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron, Ohio 44319; telephone (330) 644-2293.