The Southern Gateway Nature Park, located on the perimeter of the Tuscarawas County Port Authority’s Southern Gateway Business Park in Gnadenhutten, is comprised of nearly seven acres of land along the Tuscarawas River.  This former Superfund site has been cleansed of waste and contaminated soils and deemed by the EPA as safe for regular public access. Over 1,400 native shrubs and trees as well as a living fence of blackberry and raspberry and more than 5,000 native wildflowers and grasses have been planted.  Two wood duck boxes, three screech owl boxes, and two large bat boxes were erected along the river. A natural habitat is in the process of being restored for waterfowl, fish, and many other species. In addition, a large gazebo with a ramp has been constructed for environmental education and recreation, along with an ADA-compliant path.  Cooperating agencies in this exciting endeavor include the Tuscarawas County Port Authority, the United States and Ohio Environmental Protection Agencies, BP, Secor International, the Wildlife Habitat Council, the village of Gnadenhutten, and the Indian Valley Local Schools.  A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on May 9, 2006, with the enthusiastic participation of local, state, and national public officials; business representatives; school administrators; and Indian Valley staff and students.  One of the primary goals of the wildlife program is to create a “living classroom” for Indian Valley youngsters while restoring the ecology of the former industrial site.  The science and agri-business departments at Indian Valley have agreed to maintain and improve the park for use as an Outdoor Classroom that will offer a plethora of hands-on learning experiences for kindergarten through high school learners.