Lick Run Watershed, Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati is one of the nation’s top five combined sewer overflow (CSO) dischargers, causing severely polluted waterways and building damage. The Lick Run Watershed hosts the Cincinnati-area's largest combined sewer and was a priority for improved stormwater management. The Lick Run Watershed Strategic Integration Plan aims to eliminate 400 million gallons of combined sewer overflow annually. This plan detailed new storm sewers, bioswales, stream restoration, stormwater detention basins, bioinfiltration gardens and a mile-long constructed waterway in the watershed. This project will reduce runoff and flooding, improve water quality, increase recreational opportunities, and support wildlife through the creation of new wetland habitat.