During a recent Portage Lakes Advisory Council meeting, a member shared the rich history of the Purple Martin Club, highlighting its evolution from a local initiative to a recognized environmental effort. The discussion traced back to the 1950s when the Turkey Ford E Shore Association hired crop dusters to combat mosquito populations, leading to unintended consequences for neighboring communities.

In the early 1970s, a local scout troop initiated the SOAR Project, which aimed to build Purple Martin houses. However, the initial efforts faced challenges due to improper placement and design of the houses. Fast forward to the year 2000, when the issue of mosquito control resurfaced. A suggestion to install Purple Martin houses led to the formation of the Portage Lakes Brooklyn Martin Association, which has since seen a remarkable increase in the local Purple Martin population—from just one nesting pair in 2000 to approximately 1,200 last year.

The ecological impact of this initiative is significant, as the birds consume an estimated 45 pounds of insects daily, effectively reducing the mosquito population and minimizing the need for chemical insecticides. This natural pest control method not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also protects the water quality of the lakes.

In recognition of their efforts, the Portage Lakes area was designated as the Purple Martin Capital of Ohio in 2014, following legislative support from local representatives. The community is now gearing up for the Buckeye Martin Fest, scheduled for June 30, 2024, which promises to be a family-friendly event celebrating the success of the Purple Martin initiative and its role in local ecology.