Gross Memorial Woods State Nature Preserve

Although small in size (49 acres with approximately 40 acres being old-growth) and very flat, Gross Memorial Woods is one of the least disturbed old-growth woods in west-central Ohio and one of the few mixed-species swamp forests remaining in this part of the state. The age of the largest trees is estimated to be upwards of 150-200 years old. The woods are characterized by a diversity of tree species, with no one type being dominant. Large bur oaks and basswood occur in the wettest areas, with shagbark hickory, white and red oaks, black walnut, beech and sugar maple on slightly drier ground. The large ash trees have succumbed to the emerald ash borer insect. The forest has a lovely display of spring wildflowers and the brilliant autumn colors.