Medford Preserve

AOA acquired a 35-acre property from the Medford family in July 2025.  This property is located in the Laurel Run watershed near Bigham Road in the Cantwell Cliffs vicinity.

The preserve includes some outstanding geological features including sandstone bluffs up to 100 feet high that are parallel to a central stream gorge. These cliffs include habitat ledges that provide unique habitats for plants and animals and several small waterfalls. 

The acquisition of this property protects 3,930 lineal feet of Coldwater stream habitat in the headwaters of the Laurel Run watershed.  Six Coldwater stream species were observed in these headwaters.

Forested ravines on the property contain a large stand of hemlock.  Upland areas contain a Mixed Mesophytic forest with variety of tree species dominated by some mature tulip poplar, beech, white and red oak.  

A one-day botanical survey of the property found 243 vascular plant species, as well as several mosses and lichens.  Many of the plant species found were regionally rare and sensitive species that indicate high-quality habitat.  These species included the State Endangered Mougeot’s Yoke Moss. 

Conservation within the Laurel Run watershed has been a priority for AOA as part of our Greater Hocking Hills Conservation Initiative. As of 2025, AOA has preserved 14 properties and nearly 1,400 acres within the upper Laurel Run watershed headwaters area.