Clendening Dam

Clendening Dam is a rolled earth-fill structure located in Tippecanoe, Ohio, constructed in 1936, and is regulated and maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The dam was authorized under Section 4 of the Flood Control Act of 1938 and serves a multifaceted role. Its primary purposes are flood damage reduction, recreational opportunities, and the conservation of local fish and wildlife habitats.

This Chronolog is positioned atop the dam, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including a 20-acre wetland area. A unique feature of the site is the wetland loop trail, which meanders through this protected ecosystem. The trail includes floating boardwalks that provide visitors with a safe and elevated way to traverse the wetland, connecting one bank to another while minimizing environmental impact.

As visitors journey along the trail, they pass through diverse habitats, including forested areas, wetlands, and a designated pollinator plot. The pollinator plot is particularly notable for its certification as a Monarch Waystation. This designation indicates that the plot has essential plants, including milkweed, to support the life cycle of monarch butterflies during their migration. The Monarch Waystation serves as a critical habitat for these butterflies, providing both breeding grounds and nourishment during their long migratory journey.