For the first time in nearly two decades, the Big Darby Accord, a multi‑jurisdictional agreement designed to protect the Big Darby Creek watershed, is undergoing a comprehensive update.
Hilliard residents now have an opportunity to weigh in on the draft amendment.
The Big Darby Creek watershed, which includes 6.7 square miles within Hilliard’s western boundary, is recognized as one of the Midwest’s most biologically diverse ecosystems. The creek supports more than 100 fish species and 44 mussel species, including dozens considered endangered or rare. Its ecological significance has long-shaped local planning and conservation efforts.
Since adopting its updated comprehensive plan in 2023, the City of Hilliard has emphasized environmental stewardship as a core community priority. This includes creating a connected greenbelt along the city’s western edge and restoring natural stream channels such as Clover Groff and Hamilton Run — efforts that improve water quality and strengthen habitat within the watershed.
The Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan, originally adopted in 2008, established a regional framework for conservation‑focused growth. While the plan requires at least 50% of new development to remain open space, Hilliard has gone further, preserving 70% of residential and 60% of commercial development as protected land.
The newly released draft amendment reflects updated scientific data, evolving land‑use patterns, and lessons learned over nearly 20 years of implementation. Key proposed changes include:
- Enhanced, science‑based water‑quality monitoring
- Expanded conservation area definitions
- A stronger focus on directing development toward the urban edge
- Continued limits on overall development density
- Updates to the Darby Revenue Program to better support preservation and restoration
The draft maintains the Accord’s core mission while improving coordination among participating jurisdictions. Public engagement opportunities will continue through early 2026 before the amendment is finalized.
Residents are encouraged to review the draft and participate in the ongoing discussion about how best to protect the Big Darby watershed for future generations.
Learn more about the amendment and submit your feedback here: https://hilliardohio.gov/bigdarby/ .
