The stretch of river above and below Mill Creek Island is particularly dense with islands, and as many of them were on the larger side, they were is once used for farming. The most recent lock and dam construction on the Ohio River raised water levels to a point where farm machinery could no longer be driven across the once-shallow backchannels to the island farms, the agricultural effort had to be abandoned and the islands have no lain fallow for decades. A thin band of forest that had been left at the head and toe of most islands, or along the shore, has begun the long process of encroaching on the former farm fields. Typically, Japanese Knotweed, multiflora rose, autumn olive and other invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species battle for a permanent foothold, but there are still areas where these invasive species have not moved in. This island features a particularly beautiful mix of habitats and large trees.
Island Access: Paden City, WV, public access ramp at Paden City Park off SR 2
