The Big Darby Accord—Central Ohio’s landmark agreement to safeguard one of the Midwest’s most biologically rich watersheds—has been reopened this year under growing development pressure. The new Accord has now been released, marking a pivotal moment for all who care about the Darby’s future.
Big and Little Darby Creeks are among Ohio’s most treasured streams, nationally and locally recognized as Scenic Rivers for their outstanding biodiversity and natural beauty. The Darby watershed nurtures rare species, strengthens community well-being, and provides lasting educational, economic, and recreational value. But this extraordinary ecosystem stands at a tipping point. If unchecked development expands without strong protections, we risk losing the living heritage that defines the Darby.