22-Acre Habitat Restoration Project Begins in French Park

  • Feb 11, 2026

This week, Cincinnati Parks begins an exciting habitat restoration project in French Park. Crews will remove invasive plant species across a 22-acre section of forested areas within the park. The work is made possible thanks to a generous donation from our amazing partners at the Cincinnati Parks Foundation and will be completed in May 2026.

Why This Work Is Needed?

French Park’s forest contain a number of invasive shrubs, vines, and trees—such as Amur honeysuckle, Buckthorn, Callery pear, Multiflora rose, and English ivy. These species are bad because they crowd out native plants, reduce biodiversity, and make it harder for native wildlife to thrive.

Removing these harmful plants help: 

  • Restore healthy forest ecosystems. 

  • Improve habitat for birds and wildlife. 

  • Protect young native trees. 

  • Enhance trail experiences and visibility. 

  • Support forest regeneration in the long term. 

Over time, visitors will experience and enjoy more wildflowers, healthier trees, and a more open, natural looking woodland. 

What is Happening?  

Specialized contractors, under close supervision from Cincinnati Parks experts, will use two primary methods depending on the conditions.  

  • In heavily infested areas, equipment will be used to mulch invasive shrubs and small trees while protecting flagged native trees. 

  • In areas with valuable native plants, crews will work carefully by hand to remove invasive species without harming the surrounding forest.

All cut stumps will be treated to prevent regrowth, and crews will follow best practices such as using dye to mark treated areas, to protect soil, trails, water bodies, and infrastructure. 

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How will this impact park visitors?  

  • Work will occur Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM (some weekend work possible). 

  • Visitors may see crews, workers, or temporary access limitations in some wooded areas of the park. 

  • Trails will remain open unless short-term closures are needed for safety. 

  • Contractors will clearly mark their vehicles and maintain safe work zones through signage. 

Cincinnati Parks staff will closely monitor progress throughout the project to ensure safety, the use of the very best practices enabling quality, lasting results. 

A Healthier French Park 

Cincinnati Parks has been fortunate to work closely with members of the community via the Friends of French Park Advisory Council. These dedicated volunteers have spent the last few years volunteering their time and energy to improve the natural environment of the park. This project will bolster these efforts, bringing lasting results to French Parks even more quickly. By removing invasive plants now, we’re helping our forests grow stronger, more diverse, and more resilient for generations to come.