Amazon will spend nearly $1 million to restore wetlands and grasslands at two Metro Parks near Hilliard. The largest piece: 18 acres of wetland habitat at Prairie Oaks Metro Park.

The project, announced in a news release reported by WSYX/Fox 28 Columbus on Sept. 8 pairs Amazon with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. Across two parks, the partners plan to restore 66 acres of wetlands and grasslands, with work expected to wrap up in 2027.

At Prairie Oaks, crews will create and enhance wetland habitat by planting dense grass meadows that slow water and absorb nutrients before they reach nearby streams. Seasonal pools that collect rain and snowmelt will be added for wildlife that depend on temporary water sources. The restored areas are expected to catch fertilizer and other nutrient runoff, reducing the risk of algae blooms that can harm fish and contaminate drinking water.

The Prairie Oaks project sits in the Darby Creek watershed, which feeds the Scioto River, according to ODNR Darby Project Watershed Manager Mike McNutt. Project leaders estimate the combined restoration work at both parks will filter more than 72 million gallons of water each year.

The second site, Glacier Ridge Metro Park in Plain City, will see 45 acres of grassland restored, 3 acres of seasonal pools added and new trees planted. Organizers said those changes will help filter stormwater runoff from nearby development before it reaches the Scioto.

Project partners said the improved grasslands, wetlands and seasonal pools will provide feeding and nesting space for declining grassland birds, including Henslow's sparrow, savanna sparrow, bobolink, eastern meadowlark and upland sandpiper. Red fox, coyote, eastern cottontail and black racers are also expected to benefit.

Prairie Oaks and Glacier Ridge are two of the Metro Parks system's holdings closest to Hilliard, offering free trails and fishing access. Amazon has an address on Scioto Darby Road in Hilliard, per public business records. The exact pledge amount was not disclosed beyond "nearly $1 million," and no Amazon spokesperson was named in the announcement.

Work at both parks is set for completion in 2027.