Restoring French Park for Generations to Come

A Landmark Investment in Conservation

French Park is entering a new chapter. Cincinnati Parks, in partnership with Cincinnati Parks Foundation, is undertaking a multiyear effort to restore the park’s natural landscape, strengthen its trail system and create a healthier, more welcoming experience for everyone who visits.

Made possible by a transformational $1.8 million gift from an anonymous donor, the project represents Cincinnati’s largest reforestation effort in a city park in nearly 100 years. The work beginning at French Park has the potential to become a model for restoring urban forests throughout Cincinnati and beyond.

About French Park

Located in Amberley Village, French Park encompasses approximately 281 acres of wooded hillsides, meadows, creeks and hiking trails. Its natural beauty, historic French House and expansive landscape make it one of the Cincinnati Park’s most distinctive destinations.

Like many urban forests, however, portions of French Park have been affected by invasive plants, declining habitat and trails that require thoughtful restoration. This project will address those challenges through a comprehensive approach that considers the health of the forest and the experience of the people who use it.

Restoring the Forest

The long-term initiative will include:

  • Removing invasive plant species that prevent native trees and plants from thriving

  • Planting and establishing a new generation of native trees

  • Restoring wildlife habitat and supporting greater biodiversity

  • Improving trails to promote safer, more sustainable use of the park

  • Creating better access and opportunities for visitors to experience the miles of trails.

  • Developing a restoration model that can help guide conservation work in other Cincinnati parks

This project is an investment in the complete ecological health of French Park and in the future of one of Cincinnati’s most remarkable natural spaces.

More than a

tree-planting

project.

A Gift with Lasting Impact

This extraordinary project was made possible by a donor who understands the importance of protecting Cincinnati’s natural spaces for future generations. The impact of this generosity will be visible across French Park for decades in healthier trees, restored habitat, improved trails and the experiences of every person who comes here to walk, explore and connect with nature.

Cincinnati Parks Foundation is deeply grateful for this visionary investment and proud to partner with Cincinnati Parks to bring the project to life.

Follow the Transformation

Restoring an urban forest takes time. Over the coming years, Cincinnati Parks Foundation will share project milestones, conservation insights, volunteer opportunities and stories illustrating how the landscape is changing.

Visit French Park

About

From the Acorn