Sunnybrook Preserve Chester Township
	concept drawing of Sunnybrook's shelter

Sunnybrook Preserve is a 73-acre preserve in eastern Chester Township. Currently, there is no public access to this area. Planning is underway for future access to this preserve. The first of a series of public meetings was held in November of 2006. Public meeting minutes are available here.

History
Natural Features
Wildlife
Public Access
Map

History
In August 2001, the Chagrin River Land Conservancy (now known as the Western Reserve Land Conservancy) purchased 73 acres in Chester Township from Jean and Peter Ruh. The Land Conservancy simultaneously sold the parcel to Geauga Park District. In September 2001, according to the wishes of the Ruh family, Geauga Park District Board of Park Commissioners voted to name the property Sunnybrook Preserve.

Natural Features
Sunnybrook Preserve has many unique habitat features. The northeastern corner of the property is dominated by unique wetlands, including a fen, which is fed by alkaline, mineral-rich groundwater and characterized by distinctive flora. This fen is home to several “listed” species, including the American Cranberry Bush, which is an “endangered” species in Ohio. Any proposed trails will avoid this section of the property.

The preserve also features a sedge grass meadow and a conifer forest that provide a home for a very diverse list of wildlife. A ravine and cool spring run north to south through the eastern portion of the property. The rolling terrain of Sunnybrook Preserve was created by glacial deposits.

Wildlife
The conifer forest of Sunnybrook Preserve attracts several birds of interest including Dark Eyed Juncos, Black Throated Warblers and Wood Thrush. The woodland sections of the property are also home to the Woodland Jumping Mouse (a species of concern), Short-tailed Shrew, Hoary Bat, and Mink. The cool waters of the spring host a population of Redside Dace and Southern Redbelly Dace.

The 2007 BioBlitz was held at Sunnybrook Preserve. A Bioblitz is an attempted inventory of all living organisms in a given area during a given amount of time (usually 24 hours). To see the full list of living organisms found at Sunnybrook Preserve click here.

Public Access
Access at this time is by permit only.