The Cuyahoga is one of only fourteen rivers designated as American Heritage Rivers due to their cultural, environmental and economic importance in their regions. The initiative is an innovative response to help river communities that seek federal assistance and other resources to meet some tough challenges. Without any new regulations on private property owners, state, local and tribal governments, the American Heritage Rivers initiative is about making more efficient and effective use of existing federal resources, cutting red-tape, and lending a helping hand.

The Cuyahoga American Heritage River initiative encompasses the entire Cuyahoga River watershed, bringing together government agencies, businesses and community partners from six counties.

The CRCPO is the lead AHR partner, working with NOACA, NEFCO, Ohio & Erie Canalway, and Upper Cuyahoga River Task Force.