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Water Damage Restoration in Loveland, OH
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Loveland, OH is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Loveland. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Loveland.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Bob Blackburn
Paramount Restoration LLC
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Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Loveland, OH
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Loveland, OH, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Loveland?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Loveland, OH, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Loveland restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Loveland, OH, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Loveland, OH
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Loveland, OH, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Loveland rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Loveland, OH
“NO KINGS” rally planned for Loveland on Saturday
David Millerhttps://lovelandmagazine.com/no-kings-rally-planned-for-loveland-on-saturday/
Saturday, June 143 – 5 PMLoveland, Ohio – On the same day that tanks and artillery launchers will be rolling through Washington D.C. on the Army’s 250th anniversary, the day that President Donald Trump turns 79 and wanted a national birthday party for himself, local organizers have called for a rally in Loveland.Organizers proclaim, “On June 14th, we’re showing up everywhere he isn’t, to say no thrones, no crowns, no kings.&rdqu...
Saturday, June 14
3 – 5 PM
Loveland, Ohio – On the same day that tanks and artillery launchers will be rolling through Washington D.C. on the Army’s 250th anniversary, the day that President Donald Trump turns 79 and wanted a national birthday party for himself, local organizers have called for a rally in Loveland.
Organizers proclaim, “On June 14th, we’re showing up everywhere he isn’t, to say no thrones, no crowns, no kings.”
Background: Nationwide protests loom over Trump’s upcoming military parade
About this event
“In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings. NO KINGS is a national day of action and mass mobilization in response to increasing authoritarian excesses and corruption from Trump and his allies. We’ve watched as they’ve cracked down on free speech, detained people for their political views, threatened to deport American citizens, and defied the courts. They’ve done this all while continuing to serve and enrich their billionaire allies.”
????On Saturday, June 14, we’re taking to the streets nationwide. We’re not gathering to feed his ego. We’re building a movement that leaves him behind.????
The flag doesn’t belong to Donald Trump. It belongs to us. We’re not watching history happen. We’re making it.
On June 14th, we’re showing up everywhere he isn’t—to say no thrones, no crowns, no kings. Check out nokings.org for more information.
A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.
Urgent Issue: Ohio House Bill 335
David Millerhttps://lovelandmagazine.com/149255-2/
Loveland, Ohio – This press release was sent by the political action committee, Citizens for Loveland City Schools.Dear Loveland City Schools Community,Thank you for your continued outreach to our state representatives. You are making a difference!Our work continues, however. There is new legislation that is pending – HB 335 – which would be devastating for our schools, cities and counties. It would result in the following losses:More infor...
Loveland, Ohio – This press release was sent by the political action committee, Citizens for Loveland City Schools.
Dear Loveland City Schools Community,
Thank you for your continued outreach to our state representatives. You are making a difference!
Our work continues, however. There is new legislation that is pending – HB 335 – which would be devastating for our schools, cities and counties. It would result in the following losses:
More information on the bill and its impacts to Ohio public schools can be found here.
How to Help
Please contact our representatives and ask them to reject this bill. Here is a template you can use.
You can also join us at Narrow Path Brewery tomorrow, June 12, from 6-8pm. We will gather to write letters to our represenatives, asking them to oppose HB 335.
We hope to see you tomorrow evening!
District 7
Senator: Steve Wilson (Republican) wilson@ohiosenate.gov (614) 466-9737Coverage: Covers Warren County, which includes the City of Loveland.Website: ohiosenate.gov/wilsonlookup.boe.ohio.gov+2en.wikipedia.org+2lookup.boe.ohio.gov+2
District 14
Senator: Terry Johnson johnson@ohiosenate.gov (614) 466-8082
Coverage: Represents portions of Clermont CountyWebsite: ohiosenate.gov/terry-johnsonohiosenate.gov+1senate.state.oh.us+1
OH HOUSE DISTRICTS
District 28: Karen Brownlee (Democrat) represents Symmes Township.District 62: Jean Schmidt (Republican) represents the City of Loveland and Miami Township. house.ohio.govhouse.ohio.gov
HOUSE LEADERSHIP
House Speaker Matt Huffman: Rep78@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 466-6344
Finance Chair Brian Stewart: Rep12@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 466-1464
Speaker Pro Tempore Gayle Manning: Rep52@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 644-5076
Assistant Speaker Pro Tempore Phil Plummer: Rep39@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 644-8051
Majority Floor Leader Marilyn John: Rep76@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 466-5802
Assistant Majority Floor Leader Adam Bird: Rep63@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 644-6034
Majority Whip Riordan McClain: Rep87@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 644-5088
Majority Whip Steve Demetriou: Rep35@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 644-5088
Majority Whip Nick Santucci: Rep64@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 466-5441
Majority Whip Josh Williams: Rep44@ohiohouse.gov, (614) 466-1418
Sample Letter
Dear ……
As a resident of Loveland and a strong supporter of Ohio’s public schools, I am writing to urge you to oppose House Bill 335, the so-called “Property Tax Relief NOW Act.” While I understand the importance of addressing property tax concerns, this bill goes far beyond reasonable reform and would cause irreversible harm to our community schools.
HB 335 proposes to:
This bill directly threatens the quality of education in Loveland and across Ohio. Our schools could be forced to eliminate arts, music, athletics, AP classes, transportation, and much more—reducing educational opportunities and community strength.
If HB 335 passes, it is likely that Loveland City Schools and other districts will have no choice but to go to the ballot more often, placing a greater burden on voters and increasing instability in school funding. The lost revenue from HB335 for Loveland City Schools is projected at $5.846 million annually, approximately 6.6 mills. Worse yet, by shifting the tax burden from businesses to individuals, this legislation accelerates a 30-year trend of disinvestment in public services.
There is a better way. Senate Bill 22 provides targeted property tax relief to those who need it most—without destroying school funding. I strongly encourage you to reject HB 335 and instead support a balanced approach that maintains educational excellence while addressing affordability concerns.
Please stand with your constituents, with Ohio’s children, and with our future. Oppose HB 335.
Sincerely,
Fentanyl Awareness Weekend Returns to Loveland June 12–15
David Millerhttps://lovelandmagazine.com/fentanyl-awareness-weekend-returns-to-loveland-june-12-15/
Friday, June 13 ~ Weekend Kickoff???? 4:00–6:00 PM ???? Hops & Berry, 118 Karl Brown Way, Loveland, OH 45140 Join us for a casual kickoff and toast to another year of progress and purpose! Pick up your DOITFORJACK t-shirt & swag.Friday, June 13 ~ Celebration at O’Bryon’s???? 7:00 PM ???? O’Bryon’s Bar & Grill, 1998 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Hosted by Jack’s friends and our DOITFORJACK Young Profess...
Friday, June 13 ~ Weekend Kickoff
???? 4:00–6:00 PM ???? Hops & Berry, 118 Karl Brown Way, Loveland, OH 45140 Join us for a casual kickoff and toast to another year of progress and purpose! Pick up your DOITFORJACK t-shirt & swag.
Friday, June 13 ~ Celebration at O’Bryon’s
???? 7:00 PM ???? O’Bryon’s Bar & Grill, 1998 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Hosted by Jack’s friends and our DOITFORJACK Young Professionals Board. Raise a glass, share a memory, and help us grow this mission. Everyone is welcome!
Saturday, June 14 ~ Yoga at RODI Italian
???? 9:00 AM ???? RODI Italian (SOLD OUT) A morning of mindfulness with Heidi Fricke from Simply Power Yoga. This event is currently SOLD OUT – thank you for the incredible support!
Saturday, June 14 ~ Celebration of Jack at Cindy’s Friendly Tavern
???? 3:00 PM ???? Cindy’s Friendly Tavern, 125 S Karl Brown Way, Loveland, OH 45140 Our annual party to celebrate Jack’s life. ????️ Ticket includes:
???? Click here to purchase tickets!
Saturday, June 14 ~ After Party at Bishop’s Quarter
???? 6:00 PM ???? Bishop’s Quarter, 212 W Loveland Ave, Loveland, OH 45140 Live music, great vibes, and more time to celebrate with our community.
Sunday, June 15 ~ Kayak & Conversation ~ Father’s Day on the Little Miami
???? All Day ???? Loveland Paddlesports, 174 Karl Brown Way, Loveland, OH 45140 Spend the day on the river with your loved ones and use the moment to have a life-saving conversation about fentanyl. ???? $5 from every rental goes to DOITFORJACK
???? Click here to reserve your spot!
Can’t Join Us in Person? Win a Dream Vacation Instead!
Support our cause from anywhere by entering our raffle for a luxury vacation! ????️ Win a one-week stay for up to 18 guests in a stunning home in Seagrove Beach, 30A, Florida. ????️ Tickets: $100 each | Only 250 available and going fast! All proceeds support DOITFORJACK and our life-saving outreach.
???? Buy your raffle tickets HERE!
Loveland, Ohio – Now in its fourth year, Fentanyl Awareness Weekend & Celebration of Jack brings the Loveland community together for a powerful cause: saving lives through education.
Hosted by DOITFORJACK ~ The Jack Quehl Foundation, the multi-day event honors Jack’s life while raising awareness about the growing threat of fentanyl poisoning.
With community events, raffles, drink & dine to donate, and a powerful message, it’s both a celebration and a call to action. All proceeds support the foundation’s mission to educate students, parents, and professionals about the dangers of fentanyl.
There are multiple ways you can support this cause through this event. Visit the event site for all the details here https://www.doitforjack.org/event/fentanyl-awareness-weekend/
We hope to see you there!
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cincinnati.comhttps://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/high-school/ohio-high-school/2025/06/05/ohio-high-school-baseball-loveland-indian-hill-division-ii-division-iv-regional-final/84037114007/
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Ohio and Loveland’s Remarkable Reptiles
Guest Columnhttps://lovelandmagazine.com/remarkable-reptiles/
by Julie WatsonIn last month’s column (April Showers bring Vernal Pools) we talked a lot about Ohio’s native amphibians (frogs, toads, and salamanders). This month I want to talk about Ohio’s native reptiles, most of which can be found in Loveland. Reptiles are cold-blooded (the scientific term is ectothermic), breathe air, and are covered with scales. The buckeye state has over 45 native species of reptiles. 12 of them are turtles.Turtles have changed very little in the past 200 million years. These living fo...
by Julie Watson
In last month’s column (April Showers bring Vernal Pools) we talked a lot about Ohio’s native amphibians (frogs, toads, and salamanders). This month I want to talk about Ohio’s native reptiles, most of which can be found in Loveland. Reptiles are cold-blooded (the scientific term is ectothermic), breathe air, and are covered with scales. The buckeye state has over 45 native species of reptiles. 12 of them are turtles.
Turtles have changed very little in the past 200 million years. These living fossils have been inhabiting the woodlands and waterways of Ohio since the Triassic period. Most turtles have long life spans with some going past the century mark. While turtles have a reputation for being slow, this is really only true of land-based turtles like tortoises and box turtles. They don’t need to be fast because they eat vegetation which they don’t have to chase. Their thick shells and heavily scaled legs protect them from attack. Many aquatic turtles can swim very quickly in order to catch their prey, things like invertebrates, frogs and fish.
Ohio’s largest and longest living turtle, the snapping turtle, sits in the mud at the bottom of ponds and slow-moving waterways and catches its prey with a lightning-fast chomp. These heavy weights can weigh up to 35 pounds and they will consume anything they can catch and swallow including rodents and birds.
Believe it or not, Ohio is home to five native species of lizards and one species that has become established (European wall lizard) in and around Loveland. While most of them can only be found in Ohio’s southern counties, populations of the common five lined skink are scattered across the state.
The remaining native reptiles are snakes. Now, I know what you’re thinking, but keep reading. There are only three venomous (not poisonous) snake species native to Ohio: the northern copperhead, which despite its name, can only be found in a few of Ohio’s southern counties; the eastern massasauga, a short, thick bodied rattlesnake scattered amongst marshes and bogs across the state (including the Loveland area); and the timber rattlesnake found in only a few southern Ohio counties. In general, all three species are nonaggressive unless provoked. If you come across one give it plenty of space.
The rest of Ohio’s native snake species are both harmless and helpful, often consuming pests. Several of our native snakes grow to be less than a foot long, while the eastern/black rat snake can grow up to six feet in length.
Due to factors like habitat loss, pollution, and lack of understanding, Ohio’s native reptiles are in trouble. Five species are endangered, which means that they are in danger of being extirpated; four are threatened, meaning that if stress continues or increases the species may become endangered; and 11 are species of concern which means populations are being closely monitored for signs of distress. That adds up to almost half of Ohio’s native reptile population.
So, how can you and I help our native reptiles? Here are some suggestions: Watch the roads. Remember reptiles are cold-blooded (ectothermic) which means they are unable to produce their own body heat. They seek out warm places like roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. If you encounter a snake or lizard avoid it. If it’s a turtle, it may be crossing to find a spot to lay eggs. In this case, if you want to help it across, always take it in the direction it was already headed. Helping snapping turtles can be risky. They can reach everywhere on their body except their tails; however, picking larger ones up by the tail can potentially harm them. After touching any reptile always wash your hands thoroughly.
Give them space. This holds true when encountering any type of wildlife. Observe from a distance and don’t try to handle them. Generally, if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.
Don’t use pesticides, poisons, or sprays. If you poison a food source, toxins will build up in the consumer eventually causing death and/or reproduction defects (as in the case of bald eagles). Also. most reptiles have sensitive skin that easily absorbs harmful chemicals. Besides, many of our native reptiles consume pests and are therefore beneficial to have around.
Educate yourself. Go to: http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov for more information. Learn more about Ohio’s amazing reptiles and appreciate them for their beauty and the roles they play.
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