Interactive freshwater exhibit showcases native fish and river health in Hamilton, Ohio
Hamilton, OH — April 16, 2026 — The Miami Conservancy District (MCD) is proud to sponsor the return of the “Life Below the Waterline” traveling freshwater aquarium at the 19th Annual Great Miami Riverway Summit, taking place April 24, 2026, in Hamilton, Ohio.
Hosted at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts, this year’s Summit is centered on the theme “Reimagining,” bringing together leaders, partners, and communities from across the Great Miami River corridor to explore innovative approaches to riverfront development, recreation, infrastructure, tourism, and regional collaboration.
The “Life Below the Waterline” exhibit, presented in partnership with the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission (ORSANCO), is a 2,200-gallon mobile aquarium that offers visitors a rare, up-close look at native freshwater species. On Thursday, April 23, the aquarium will be stocked with fish collected from the Great Miami River, providing a living snapshot of the watershed’s biodiversity and health. Species commonly featured include Smallmouth Bass, Carp, Redhorse, Longnose Gar, and Pike—native fish that reflect the ecological richness of the region’s waterways.
The exhibit features large windows that allow attendees to observe aquatic life while learning how rivers connect to groundwater, which serves as the primary drinking water source for communities throughout Southwest Ohio.
“Healthy rivers are not only vital ecosystems—they are the foundation of our drinking water, our recreation, and our communities,” said Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Manager of Outreach, Education, and Stewardship for the Miami Conservancy District. “This exhibit helps people see what is often hidden beneath the surface and understand how closely our river health is tied to our everyday lives.”
MCD’s Water Stewardship Initiative works to safeguard water quality across the Great Miami River Watershed. Through monitoring, education, and collaborative partnerships, MCD supports efforts to protect the region’s water resources for public health, economic vitality, and environmental resilience.
Visitor Information
Experience the Aquarium
Visitors are encouraged to experience the aquarium on either day (April 23 or April 24).
Hours
What to Expect
The aquarium will be set up by mid-morning, with fish added from the Great Miami River around noon each day, and will remain open throughout the day.
Parking Notice
Parking will be limited on Friday, April 24, due to the Riverway Summit.
Cost & Access
Visiting the Aquarium is Free and open to the public. Rain or shine.
Entry to the Riverway Summit requires a ticket.
Who You’ll Meet
Guests can connect with local water and wildlife experts, including representatives from:
Who It’s For
Families • Students • Nature lovers • Curious minds
Plan to stay 30 minutes or longer for the full experience.
The 19th Annual Riverway Summit will feature keynote speakers, rapid-fire regional updates, and sessions focused on accessibility, resiliency, tourism, adaptive reuse, and riverfront innovation. Attendees will also enjoy networking opportunities, local food, live experiences, and regional partnerships that highlight the momentum across the Riverway corridor.
Tickets are available through April 17, 2026, and include full Summit access, meals, and additional experiences such as a reception, door prizes, and access to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum.
The Great Miami Riverway is a program of the Miami Conservancy District, convening communities across more than 99 miles of connected river towns, trails, and recreational destinations.
“The Riverway Summit continues to show what is possible when communities come together around a shared vision,” said Ginger Clark, Manager of the Great Miami Riverway. “This aquarium is a powerful reminder that the future of our river corridor depends on how well we understand and protect what is already thriving beneath the surface.”
To purchase tickets for the Great Miami Riverway Summit, visit https://protix.cityspark.com/e/2026-riverway-summit
