Introducing the Western Lake Erie Basin Initiative

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 Western Lake Erie Basin Initiative

A Ridge Strategy Partners Program

At Ridge Strategy Partners, we are developing a focused effort centered on one of the most important environmental systems in our region—the Lake Erie watershed. The Western Lake Erie Basin Initiative is a practical, community-centered program designed to help municipalities, contractors, and residents better address real-world stormwater and water management challenges.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Across Northeast Ohio, communities are experiencing increasing pressure on stormwater systems. Flooding, drainage issues, and aging infrastructure are becoming more common. At the same time, broader regional challenges—such as nutrient runoff, water quality impacts, and habitat loss—continue to affect Lake Erie. While these issues are connected, the systems addressing them are often fragmented, creating gaps between planning, installation, and long-term maintenance.

A PRACTICAL, LOCAL APPROACH

This initiative is built on a simple approach:

Start local. Build practical solutions. Expand strategically.

The goal is not to replace existing programs, but to support and connect them—bridging the gap between community understanding, professional training, and real-world implementation.

CORE AREAS OF FOCUS

Stormwater Systems:

• Construction support and field coordination
• System troubleshooting and performance improvement
• Maintenance strategies for long-term functionality
• Concept development for practical, buildable solutions

This work ensures stormwater systems are not only installed—but continue to perform over time.

Conservation Landscaping:

• Landscape solutions that manage water naturally
• Soil health and infiltration strategies
• Runoff reduction at residential and municipal levels

This work is supported by Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional (CBLP) certification, with a focus on practical, field-tested application.

Land and Habitat Conservation:

• Wetland restoration concepts and support
• Stream and floodplain alignment
• Identification of natural filtration and habitat opportunities

While larger-scale restoration involves multiple partners, this work connects local opportunities with broader watershed goals.

WHAT THIS WILL BECOME

The Western Lake Erie Basin Initiative is being developed as a long-term program focused on:

• Community-based watershed awareness
• Training and support for field professionals
• Coordination between municipalities, contractors, and stakeholders
• Practical, sustainable implementation strategies

This is an evolving effort currently in the early stages of development, including research, relationship-building, and pilot planning.

LOOKING AHEAD

Ridge Strategy Partners will continue working with local communities, professionals, and organizations to better understand needs and identify opportunities for meaningful impact. If you are involved in stormwater management, landscaping, municipal operations, or land conservation—or are interested in the future of our local waterways—we welcome the opportunity to connect.

Ridge Strategy Partners
A Bronco Ridge Solutions Company