News & Alerts

For the latest closures and notices, visit https://www.facebook.com/metroparks.

Hamilton Low Dam Replacement Project

Jul 24, 2026, 15:16 PM by Katie Ely

 

MetroParks is excited for the new opportunities the Hamilton Low Dam modification project will bring to Butler County. This project is part of a long-discussed vision for expanding environmental initiatives and recreational opportunities in the City of Hamilton and in the Great Miami River region.

The dam modification will:

  • Open up 33.7 miles of unobstructed access from the Ohio River
  • Increase water safety through a new rock riffle dam system
  • Improve Great Miami River water quality for fish through water cooling and increased oxygenation
  • Offer new fishing and paddling opportunities for the community
  • This is an important step toward protecting water quality, expanding river access, and making recreation safer, helping create a more connected, vibrant region for residents and visitors alike.

FAQs

  • The dam was originally installed for recreational purposes; its replacement will not impact the Miami Conservancy District's flood control infrastructure.
  • This is not a MetroParks-led project, but we are excited to partner with the City of Hamilton, the Miami Conservancy District, the Hamilton Community Foundation, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on this initiative. Increasing safe water recreation and amplifying environmental stewardship projects along the Great Miami River is important to MetroParks' mission of furthering nature conservation, education, and outdoor recreation in Butler County. We look forward to more exciting things to come as a result of this project!
  • There are no immediate plans for the low head dam modification at Rentschler Forest MetroPark, but we hope that becomes a reality soon.

For more information about the project, visit:

 

 

  • Woodsdale MetroPark Trail Conditions

    Aug 27, 2026, 11:53 AM

    Several of Woodsdale MetroPark's trails are muddy or may be impassible due to standing water.

  • Great Miami River Trail Closures - 9/14 & 9/15

    Aug 26, 2026, 16:25 PM

    The Great Miami River Trail at Rentschler Forest MetroPark will be closed from the park entrance at Reigart Rd to Canal Road September 14 - 15 for blacktop repair work.

  • Portions of GMRT Closed

    Aug 20, 2026, 10:04 AM

    Due to flooding, portions of the GMRT are currently closed. The following GMRT trailheads are closed until water recedes: Flyer lot/trailhead down to the Trenton lot/trailhead terminus to the south

  • Portion of Cascades Trail Closed

    Aug 18, 2026, 10:11 AM

    A portion of the Cascades Trail at Rentschler Forest MetroPark is closed due to fallen limbs.

  • Timberhill MetroPark Camp Trails Closure

    Aug 13, 2026, 13:37 PM

    The Camp Trails at Timberhill MetroPark are closed due to downed limbs.

  • Sycamore Grove Trail

    Apr 24, 2026, 09:57 AM

    The Sycamore Grove Trail at Governor Bebb MetroParks has reopened to the public. The trail is non-ADA accessible until gravel replacement work can be completed.

  • MetroParks Cashless Beginning 1/1/26

    Nov 26, 2025, 10:44 AM

    MetroParks is keeping it cashless beginning 1/1/26. Credit and debit cards are welcome at MetroParks' Administrative Office and Voice of America MetroPark Welcome Center. Cash will still be accepted for on-site program registration.

  • Sebald MetroPark Closures

    May 12, 2025, 09:52 AM

    The Ridge Trail at Sebald MetroParks is closed due to trail rerouting work.

  • Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trail Closures

    Nov 12, 2024, 11:08 AM

    Portions of the Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trails will be closed for trail rerouting work. Trail closures will be marked with signs and barricades.