Conservation programs currently underway in the Parks and Recreation Department include the demonstration prairie, Eastern Bluebird nesting, and native arboretum projects. All projects support the Parks and Recreation department's commitment to managing green space that provides habitat on which resident wildlife depend, while providing educational opportunities and enjoyment for park visitors.

The prairie is an example of a very important ecosystem that was once common in parts of Ohio but is now almost absent from the region. By maintaining this productive and unique ecosystem, many native wildlife species are afforded the food and cover they need to survive. The numerous species of plants that grow in the prairie provide year-round interest to those visiting the prairie.

The Bluebird nesting program is designed to provide safe nesting places for the Eastern Bluebird and other native species, whose natural open grassland habitat is quickly being replaced by houses and roadways. The nesting boxes help ensure these species' continued success as one of Ohio's original inhabitants.

The arboretum is a continuously expanding collection of native trees which are planted in the parks. Each specimen in the collection is part of an inventory which includes each tree's botanical and common name and its location. This collection serves as an educational resource for park program instructors and visitors. It also encourages the continued success of the natural ecosystems to which these trees are a part and upon which so many living things rely for survival.