Little Miami Conservancy Announces Leadership Transition, Reaffirms Commitment to the River

By Mike Meldon

LMC Building- Watercolor by Joy Osborne

For anyone who spends time along the Little Miami River—walking the bike trail, paddling on a warm day, or simply enjoying the view—it’s clear how central the river is to life in Loveland. That’s why recent news from the Little Miami Conservancy (LMC), one of the region’s longtime environmental stewards, is important to the community.

LMC announced that its Executive Director, Jason Brownknight, will be stepping down to pursue another career opportunity. While the change marks a leadership transition, the organization’s mission remains firmly in place. The LMC Board of Directors emphasized its continued commitment to restoring and protecting the Little Miami State and National Scenic River as the search for a successor begins.

“The Board is committed to a smooth transition and to supporting the stewardship programs that have defined LMC for decades,” said LMC President Rhett Rohrer.

Over the past year, LMC has remained active throughout the river corridor, including projects that directly benefit Loveland residents and visitors. One of the organization’s most significant accomplishments was overseeing the sale and transition of 26 acres of pristine riverfront land at Fort Ancient—formerly Morgan Outdoor Adventures—to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. This ensures the land will remain protected and accessible for future generations.

LMC also led volunteer river sweeps that removed trash and tires from the Little Miami, helping keep the river clean, healthy, and enjoyable. The organization continued to operate and monitor its popular Eagle Cam, home to a returning bald eagle pair and viewed by thousands, offering a real-time look at the river’s growing ecological success. In addition, LMC delivered educational programming for audiences of all ages, promoting conservation and awareness throughout the community.

“On behalf of the LMC Board, we thank Jason for all that he has accomplished and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” Rohrer said. “Because of his efforts, LMC has grown, and we will continue the work that has been our trademark for 59 years.”

Founded in 1967, the Little Miami Conservancy helped secure state and national recognition for the river, including its designation as Ohio’s first State Scenic River and National Wild and Scenic River. Today, more than 54 percent of the riverfront is formally protected, and the Little Miami ranks in the top 10 percent of river ecosystems in Ohio—a success story the Loveland community continues to enjoy and support.