LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
March-April 2022 Volume 62, Number 2
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION Embrace our one-of-a-kind natural resource and celebrate Earth Week with this unique exhibit, hikes and programs! | Pgs. 10 & 11
SUMMER CAMPS This year, register your child for a Summer Camp! We offer Nature Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, Theatre Camp, and more! | Pgs. 4 & 5
HIKING STICK PROGRAM Get started on acquiring your own hiking stick this year with our list of April hikes elegible for the annual Hiking Stick Program! | Pgs. 6 & 7 Pictured: Kayakers paddling along the Black River.
LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM
INSIDE Golf Courses 2 Honor Roll 3 Summer Camps 4-5 Hiking 6-7 Gardening 8 Kids & Family/ Easter Events 9 Earth Week 10 - 11 Cultural Arts 12
James E. Ziemnik Director, Lorain County Metro Parks 2022 BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS: Joseph E. Hribar • Chairman Kenneth M. Lieux • Vice Chairman Sherrill M. “Cookie” McLoda • Commissioner James Walther • Probate Court Judge LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM
(440) 458-5121
Golf Courses Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just starting out, Forest Hills Golf Course has something to offer. The Black River weaves through the course, and a number of other ponds, bunkers, and hills will keep your game interesting. This 18-hole course COME PLAY A ROUND FOREST HILLS GOLF COURSE features holes of all difficulties, as & KOPF FAMILY GOLF COURSE AT CHERRY RIDGE well as a driving range. A weekday round of 18 holes with a cart costs $29 (Regular) and $26 (Senior) before 1:00 p.m. This course is located at 41971 Oberlin-Elyria Road in Elyria. To schedule a tee time, call the clubhouse at (440) 323-2632. The Kopf Family Golf Course at Cherry Ridge is a gorgeous 9-hole course, surrounded by the stunning Black River. This course is perfect for a quick round. Lorain County Metro Parks assumed control of this course in 2021. A weekday round of 9 holes with a cart costs $18. This course is located at 1211 West River Road in Elyria. To schedule a tee time, call the clubhouse at (440) 324-3713. For more information on fees, season opening dates, tee times, leagues and outings, call the clubhouse. Junior (15 yrs. & younger) and Senior (62 yrs. & older) rates are available.
L O R A I N C O U N T Y M E T R O PA R K S L O C AT I O N S & F A C I L I T I E S : • Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation
913 North Lake St., Amherst, Ohio 44001
• Amherst HealthPlex
Equestrian Center/ Nielsen Observatory:
French Creek Nature Center:
4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054 (440) 949-5200
• North Coast Inland Trail Butternut Ridge Trailhead:
13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, Ohio 44050 44342 Butternut Ridge Rd., 47160 Hollstein Dr., Amherst, OH 44001 • Cascade Park Oberlin, OH 44074 (440) 984-3470 Pine Tree Picnic Area: 387 Furnace St., Elyria, Ohio 44035 Gateway Trailhead: 4951 French Creek Rd., • Black River Reservation (440) 458-5121 6275 Gateway Blvd., Elyria, OH 44035 Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054 (440) 324-5481 • Charlemont Reservation • The North Star Preserve/Henry’s Barn: • Indian Hollow Reservation Bur Oak: 48600 New London Eastern Rd., 46223 U.S. Rt. 20, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 38744 Parsons Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 • Sandy Ridge Reservation 6150 Ford Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 New London, Ohio 44851 Royal Oaks: Days Dam: • Columbia Reservation 6195 Otten Rd., N. Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 2720 E. 31st St., Lorain, Ohio 44055 25145 Royalton Rd., Columbia Station, 1057 Parson Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 (440) 327-3626 Ohio 44028 High Meadows: • Kopf Family Reservation • Schoepfle Garden (440) 236-3254 1750 Ford Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 32649 Electric Blvd., 11106 Market St., Birmingham, Ohio 44889 Briarwood Lodge: Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 (440) 965-7237 • Caley Reservation 25250 Briarwood Dr., Columbia Station, (440) 387-8107 18207 West Rd., Wellington, Ohio 44090 • Splash Zone Ohio 44028 • Kipton Reservation 95 W. Hamilton, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 • Carlisle Reservation • Forest Hills Golf Course St. Route 511, Oberlin, Ohio 44074 (440) 774-5059 (440) 458-5121 41971 Oberlin-Elyria Rd., • Lakeview Park • Vermilion River Reservation Carlisle Visitor Center: Elyria, Ohio 44035 1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain, Ohio 44052 51211 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 12882 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 323-2632 (440) 967-7310 • Miller Nature Preserve Duck Pond Picnic Area: • French Creek Reservation 2739 Center Rd., Avon OH 44011 • Wellington Reservation 12550 Diagonal Rd., Burrell Homestead: (440) 937-0764 535 Jones Rd., Wellington, Ohio 44090 LaGrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 647-2509 2792 E. River, Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054
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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The Lorain County Metro Parks is looking to fill seasonal and summer positions. Various opportunities are available at sites across the county, including LIFEGUARDS, PARK AIDES, GOLF AIDES, FRONT DESK STAFF, and MORE. Visit our website for a current listing of open positions and apply online today! Visit: loraincountymetroparks.com/employment Lorain County Metro Parks is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind. Lorain County Metro Parks makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and operational need. New employees must satisfactorily complete a background check. LCMP policy prohibits hiring tobacco users.
Honor Roll
The Honor Roll is our way of publicly thanking individuals, families, organizations, & corporations for their donations to the Lorain County Metro Parks be it through volunteer services, monetary gifts, or other. If you would like information about making a donation, please contact the Public Information Office at (440) 458-5121.
Anonymous Sherrill ("Cookie") McLoda Joyce Peterson Jim Siddall and Debby Norris Matt and Barb Weisman Helen J. Woodward Trust Akron Children's Hospital Avon Garden Club Black River Audubon Society Lorain County Hookcrafters Moen Ohio Lily Society PERI Chapter 83 Lorain County United Way of Greater Lorain County
Michael and Dorothy Paulus (Gifts to Cassie, Shea, Tess, Alden, Cillian & Sawyer Paulus) Gail Petry (Gift to Andrew Petry) Hilary Sadler Kathy & Stuart Schiffman Robert and Judy Skillicorn (in Memory of Sandra Strong) Rich and Donna Stevens (Gifts to each other) Joyce Tight Don and Yvonne Urig Joan Vacco (Gift to Cheryl Gildenmeister) Linda Wilin Robert Wondrak (Gift to Bob Wondrak) Ruth Wulfhoop (Gifts to Ellen R. Otis and Becky A George)
Adopt-A-Raptor
John A. and Eva L. Costin by Dr. and Mrs. John A. Costin Lorain High School Class of 1967 by the Lorain High School Class of 1967
Claudia Anders Mike and Mary Beth Arendash (Gift to Jesse White) Marilyn Bauer (Gift to Roger Bauer) Jane Berkeley (Gift to Laura Berkeley) Bev Brothers (Gift to Maggie Brothers) Brian Bush James B. Civille (Gift to Richard E. Arnold) Julie Cole (Gift to Kyle Herchler) Carole Disbrow (Gift to Sean Rini) Greg and Edie Dore (Gift to Cameron Velican) Barbara Gorenshek Barbara Gorenshek (Gifts to Emily and Nancy Gorenshek) The Herb Guild Garden Club Thomas H. Higgason (Gifts to Franco, Dominic & Vincenzo Gallo, & Max & Kate Redd ) Thomas H. Higgason (in Memory of Luz Higgason) Marlene Jacobs (Gift to Brooklyn Wise) Judy Johnston (Gift to Ann Rogers) Debbie Kabicek-Carroll (Gift to Shakita Kabicek) Jessica Keppler (Gift to Cindy Keppler) Sharon Kohl Doug Kramer (in memory of Ann H. Buchanan) Evan Plous Kresch (Gift to Maya Kresch) Greg and Deborah Lafferty (Gifts to Wyatt, Everett and Colt Killiany) Greg and Deborah Lafferty (in Memory of our grandchild, Peanut Killiany) Josie Leetch Cassidy Lowden (Gift to Michael Tucci) Kim and Mike Machovina Finn McMullen Jeff and Jean Minar (Gift to Samuel Minar) Kathy Novak (Gift to Karen and Don Rohde)
Gift was given in Honor of:
Gift was given in Memory of: Lucas by Megan Champagne Lucas by Pam Coleman Lucas by Diane Collins Lucas by Debi Grzywna Lucas by Leslie Holstein Lucas by Judy Ives Lucas by Kelly Milluzzi Lucas by Michele Petit Lucas by Toni Post Lucas by Doug Pritt Jr. Lucas by Jenn Pritt Lucas by Rebecca Pritt Lucas by Colton Scharf Lucas by Stephanie Snakovsky Lucas by Amy Thomas Lucas by DJ Warren Mary Ann Amato by Gerald Amato Kathleen Arnold by David Thomas Richard "Dick" Arnold by Avon Lake City Council Richard "Dick" Arnold by Buckeye Community Bank Richard "Dick" Arnold by Law Director Gary Ebert Richard "Dick" Arnold by Joseph and Carolyn Webber Richard "Dick" Arnold by Judy Williams Richard "Dick" Arnold by Mayor Greg Zilka P. Booth by Edward and Kristen Rudd Ann H. Buchanan by Suzanne Buchanan Gerald Charles Koepp by Beatrice Marlette
Gerald Charles Koepp by Vermilion Local School District William "Bill" Kretovics by Anne Marie Kretovics William "Bill" Kretovics by Linda and Dennis Weigl Alex Krutowskis by Gerald and Theresa Babuder Alex Krutowskis by Deva and Ralph Black Alex Krutowskis by Dan and Judy Buttler Alex Krutowskis by Mary Ann and Brian Hamlin Alex Krutowskis by Tim and Joyce Helt Alex Krutowskis by Gail Ignatz-Hoover Alex Krutowskis by Marge and Tom Jacobson Alex Krutowskis by Marilyn Keppler-Colnar Alex Krutowskis by Donna Koch Alex Krutowskis by Diane Koster-Marquard Alex Krutowskis by Harold and JoAnne Legg Alex Krutowskis by Bernard and Kathleen Niehaus Alex Krutowskis by Pat and Mike Ormiston Alex Krutowskis by Carol Pierce Alex Krutowskis by Mary Pultz Alex Krutowskis by Chet and Audrey Roberts Alex Krutowskis by Phil Shimola Alex Krutowskis by Daniel, Lisa and Denise Sirkot Alex Krutowskis by Jim and Jennifer Smillie Alex Krutowskis by Dana and Rebecca Smith Alex Krutowskis by William and Colletta Speidel Alex Krutowskis by Paula and Ingemar Svala Alex Krutowskis by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Taller Alex Krutowskis by Gary and Mary Tober Alex Krutowskis by Christa and Stephan Turnbull Alex Krutowskis by Pat Weisbarth Alex Krutowskis by Kathleen Whitmore Alex Krutowskis by Gregg and Donna Wilson Paul D. LaLonde by Bonnie and Dave Snyder Claudia Moore by Joe & Cheryl Hribar Susan Moore by Carol A. Arroyo Susan Moore by Friends of Susan Moore Susan Moore by Melissa and Michael Kuns Susan Moore by Angelo and Susan Tetorakis Susan Moore by Madeline R. Zaworski James Rallis by Joanna Dickason James Rallis by Sharon Miranda James Rallis by Dorothy Robson David C. Simo by Marli Field Wayne and Colleen Standen by The Grandchildren of Wayne & Colleen Standen Rosemary and John Theobald by Paul and Tanya Theobald
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Summer Camps YOUTH SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS AGES 3-15 YEARS OLD Call-in registration for Lorain County residents begins at 8 a.m. on Friday, February 11 and runs through February 17. Call-in and online registrations will open for all participants on February 18. Carlisle Visitor Center: (440) 458-5121 French Creek Nature Center: (440) 949-5200 Mill Hollow Carriage Barn: (440) 967-7310
Nature Camp
Young Birders Camp
Explore. Connect. Engage! Nature Camp will foster a love and respect for nature through outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, habitat explorations and much more. Each day of Nature Camp will provide a schedule filled with creative crafts, experiments, outdoor journaling activities, active team games, and plenty of fun nature hikes! Camps are also held in a safe environment with qualified and enthusiastic Naturalist staff. Nature Camp encompasses two separate weeks for two different age groups. See groups below for more information on dates and age groups.
June 14-17 | 9 am-3 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center 8-12 years old $160/child Young birders and nature explorers are invited to join us for a fun, discovery-based camp where students will experience live birds from the Raptor Center, exploring trails in the forest, field and wetland as well as learning how to use binoculars and will receive their very own field guides. Camp will culminate with a field day at Sandy Ridge Reservation (campers will meet at Sandy Ridge Reservation on field day)
EXPLORERS
ADVENTURERS
June 7-10 | 9 am-Noon French Creek Reservation 5-7 years old $100/child Come out and play in the great outdoors at the French Creek Reservation during this fun-filled week of Camp! Camp runs from 9 am – 12 pm, Tuesday - Friday. This camp is designed for first-time campers. We will explore nature through handson activities, games, educational programs, live animals, and more!
June 14-17 | 9 am-3 pm French Creek Reservation 8-10 years old $160/child Want to learn how to become an nature adventurer? This full-day camp (6 hours) will give campers the chance to hone in on their nature investigation skills. Campers will discover nature through hands-on activities, hiking, educational programs, and more! Adventurers is a great way to meet new friends and earn adventurer knowledge!
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'Spirit of America' Boating Education Camp June 20-24* OR June 27-July 1* | 9 am-3 pm *Orientation/education classes begin June 4 *PLEASE NOTE: This camp requires the completion of an application and essay. French Creek Reservation, Splash Zone, & Lorain Harbor Boat Club Download the application online or visit Carlisle Visitor Center to get a physical copy. 12-15 years old Free (Lorain County Residents only) Do you want to learn more about boating while spending time on the water this summer? Take part in this camp and learn safe boating skills directly from certified boating instructors and ODNR Division of Water craft and U.S. Coast Guard officers, earn a required state boating certificate, and become a "Captain of Your Own Vessel!" Space is limited! April 1 deadline! Commitment to participate in all of the following disciplines is mandatory: • Ohio Boating Education Course (OBEC) • Pool instruction (drowning prevention & equipment preparedness) • 4 days of training on the water in canoes, kayaks, sailboats, motorboats, stand-up paddleboards and personal watercraft (jet skis) • Graduation ceremony and family boating opportunity AGE
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LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121
PREMIER YOUTH BOATING EDUCATION LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
Theatre Camp
' Ki n der - Gar den '
June 27-July 1 | 9 am-3 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center 10-13 years old $150/child Campers will get a chance to work on their acting, dancing, singing, and set design at the French Creek Nature Center this year. Campers can channel their creativity and will work as a team. At the end of the camp, they will put on a small performance showcasing their newly learned skills. AGE
Preschool Camp July 12-14 | 10 am-Noon OR 1-3 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center 4-6 years old $75/child Grow with us in this special camp just for preschoolers ages 4-6. We’ll discover what makes plants grow and the animals that depend on them through hikes, crafts, games, live animals and play! AGE
Outdoor Adventure Camp July 18-21 OR July 25-28 | 9 am-3 pm Vermilion River Reservation 9-11 years old $200/child (per 1-week session) Join us for a great week full of adventures! Meet at the Vermilion River Reservation’s Carriage Barn each day. Some days will include bus trips from the Vermilion River Reservation to other adventure destinations throughout Lorain County. Activities will include archery, arts and crafts, hiking, river activities, geocaching, kayaking, scavenger hunts, survival skills, and so much more! AGE
Sports Camp
Golf Camp
July 18-22 | 9 am-1 pm Splash Zone Children entering 3rd-6th grade $40/child (Splash Zone members); $55/child (non-members) Sports camp will be a 5-day camp where campers will learn fundamentals of various sports. Campers will learn new skills, improve on existing skills and participate in friendly competition. The week will combine fun, learning and fitness together! Campers should have clean gym shoes, athletic clothing, and water.
Aug. 8-9 OR Aug. 11-12 | 9 am-3 pm Kopf Family Golf Course at Cherry Ridge & Forest Hills Golf Course 10-13 years old $100/child Golf camp will consist of two days learning the fundamentals of golf including dexterity training, learning distances, choosing the right club, approach shot, bunker shot, and putting. The camp will also include various skill-based games and activities which are designed to improve the campers golf skills, as well as keep the learning environment fun and engaging. Camp will also incorporate lessons on good sportsmanship, and how to play golf honestly and with integrity.
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Raptor Camp AGE
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NEW! Calling all bird nerds! Get a behind the scenes look at the Carlisle Raptor Center and learn all about raptors during this 2-day camp. Activities include hiking, birding, nature journaling, and of course watching daily operations and training in the Raptor Center!
Aug. 2-3 | Noon-3 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center 12-14 year olds $75/child
NEW CAMP!
NEW CAMP!
Grandparents Camp MORNING SESSION: Wed., Aug. 17 | 10 am-1 pm Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation 3+ years old w/ grandparent $10/camper AGE
EVENING SESSION: Wed., Aug. 24 | 4-7 pm Cascade Park 3+ years old w/ grandparent $10/camper AGE
A fun day filled with memory making, play time, and take home activities. Please bring a packed meal for the lunch or dinner picnic time. Snacks will be provided.
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Take a Hike! LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’ APRIL GUIDED HIKES ELIGIBLE FOR THE HIKING STICK PROGRAM
HIKING LEVELS:
= EASY
= MODERATE
= STRENUOUS
April hikes
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: WATERWAYS HIKE
TRUE OR FALSE HIKE
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: WATERWAYS HIKE
Fri., Apr. 1 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve, Avon
BUR OAK TO HIGH MEADOWS HIKE Sat., Apr. 2 | 10-11 pm Black River Reservation, Bur Oak
SPRING WILDFLOWERS HIKE Sat., Apr. 2 | 2-3 pm French Creek Reservation, Pine Tree Picnic Area
SPRING WOODS HIKE Sat., Apr. 2 | 2-3 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
SPRING BIRDING WALK
For the official definition of our hiking levels, please visit us online at LorainCountyMetroParks.com/trails
Sat., Apr. 9 | Noon-12:45 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
Sun., Apr. 10 | 1-1:45 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
WILDFLOWER HIKE Wed., Apr. 13 | 10-11 am Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: WATERWAYS HIKE Sat., Apr. 16 | Noon-12:45 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
KIPTON WILDFLOWER HIKE Sat., Apr. 16 | 2-3 pm Kipton Reservation, Oberlin
Sun., Apr. 3 | 8:30-10:30 am Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville
FULL MOON HIKE Sat., Apr. 16 | 8-9 pm Wellington Reservation
POWER HIKE Mon., Apr. 18 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve, Avon
AMPHIBIAN HIKE Tue., Apr. 19 | 2-3 pm Carlisle Reservation, LaGrange
SPRING SOUNDS HIKE Tue., Apr. 19 | 7-8 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon
SCHOEPFLE GARDEN WALK Wed., Apr. 20 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden, Birmingham
BLUEBIRD TRAIL HIKE Wed., Apr. 20 | 4-5 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Bacon Woods
AMPHIBIAN HIKE Sun., Apr. 3 | 2-3 pm Carlisle Reservation, LaGrange
SIGNS OF SPRING HIKE Wed., Apr. 6 | 9-10 am Cascade Park, Elyria
NATIONAL WALKING DAY HIKE Wed., Apr. 6 | 9-11 am Charlemont Reservation, New London
WOODCOCK AND SNIPE WALK Thur., Apr. 7 | 7:30-8:30 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville
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Go on an Adventure
WWW.LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121
SPRING WILDFLOWER HIKE Thur., Apr. 21 | 1-2 pm Cascade Park, Elyria
WOODCOCK WALK Thur., Apr. 21 | 7:45-8:45 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville
EARTH DAY HIKE Fri., Apr. 22 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve, Avon
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: WATERWAYS HIKE Fri., Apr. 22 | 1-1:45 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: EARTH DAY CLEAN-UP HIKE Fri., Apr. 22 | 2-3:30 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
EARTH DAY LITTER HIKE Fri., Apr. 22 | 3-4 pm Wellington Reservation
WILDFLOWER PHOTO HIKE Sat., Apr. 23 | 10:30-11:45 am Schoepfle Garden, Birmingham
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: WATERWAYS HIKE Sat., Apr. 23 | Noon-12:45 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
APRIL SHOWERS PACK WALK Sun., Apr. 24 | 3-4 pm Wellington Reservation
BLACK RIVER CELEBRATION: WATERWAYS HIKE Sun., Apr. 24 | 1:30-2:15 pm French Creek Reservation, Nature Center
SPRING WILDFLOWER HIKE Tue., Apr. 26 | 10-11 am Schoepfle Garden, Birmingham
EARLY WILDFLOWER HIKE Tue., Apr. 26 | 2-3 pm Miller Nature Preserve, Avon
SPRING WILDFLOWER HIKE Wed., Apr. 27 | 1-2 pm Indian Hollow Reservation, Grafton
EVENING MARSH HIKE Thur., Apr. 28 | 8-9 pm Sandy Ridge Reservation, North Ridgeville
ARBOR DAY HIKE Fri., Apr. 29 | 11 am-Noon Miller Nature Preserve, Avon
ARBOR DAY HIKE Fri., Apr. 29 | 1-2:30 pm Carlisle Reservation, Equestrian Center
FRIENDS OF THE METRO PARKS HIKING STICK PROGRAM FORM | APRIL 1 - JUNE 30, 2022 Hike:
Name:
Location: Date:
1.
Address: City: State: Phone: E-Mail: Please check here if you have received a hiking stick in the past and only need a year pin.
Participants must participate in 10 hikes in 6 different reservations. The program has shifted to a hybrid model allowing participants to choose from naturalist-led program hikes or self-guided hikes, therefore staff signatures are no longer required. Please return your completed form no later than July 7, 2022 to:
Carlisle Visitor Center, 12882 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, OH 44050 (You can pick up your hiking stick/pin at Carlisle Visitor Center from Aug. 1-31. Pins will NO longer be mailed.)
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
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Gardening TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THE GARDENER AND INFORMATION ABOUT OUR VARIOUS GARDENS
National Garden Month
Is your green or not-so-green thumb getting the itch to get into the dirt? It is nearly spring, and April is a great time to plan your garden since it is National Garden Month! Gardens can be anything that you want. Plant a garden of flowers of your favorite color or a particular flower that makes you happy. Create a garden that attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. Anywhere from one tomato Cooks can plant herbs for visual interest and for adding plant to an entire crop of leaf lettuce depth to recipes. or spinach! Square foot gardening is a great way to try your Gardens can also be used to enhance areas of your green thumb at growing your own vegetables. Since all you need yard. Is there a rocky area in your yard? Make it a rock to start is one square foot of soil space, anyone with a yard, patio, or garden and spruce it up. If there is a wet area in your yard, balcony can do it. make it a rain garden to absorb the extra water and also Whether it’s a single container, a raised bed divided into one-foot help to stop erosion. Are there too many trees in your squares, or a garden large enough to produce vegetables for a whole yard and not enough sun? Try shade-loving plants for family. Start by taking each square foot area, deciding what vegetable you a shade garden. With small outdoor spaces such as a want to plant, and finding out how much room each plant needs. For instance, patio or deck, enthusiasts can try a container garden. If you can grow a single tomato or pepper plant in a square foot, two cucumber plants, four you cannot get down into the dirt—bring it to you. Try heads of Bibb lettuce, or nine green onions, so in a 2’ x 2’ garden, you can plant a whole salad! flower boxes and raised beds to elevate your garden. Learn more about planning and planting a small garden at Schoepfle Garden on Saturday, Gardens bring color to our yards, nutrition to March 26 at 10 a.m., free but please pre-register due to limited numbers. our plates, attract pollinators, and the chance to get outside. Have fun planning your garden and enjoying it for months to come!
HOW MUCH CAN YOU GROW IN A SQUARE FOOT OF SOIL?
HERB-N-HANDMADE FAIR
Explore Schoepfle Garden
Sat., Apr. 30 | 11 am-4 pm Vermilion River Reservation, Carriage Barn With beautiful Mill Hollow as a backdrop, enjoy a fair featuring a variety of vendors selling homegrown herb plants, handmade décor, body products, and food items. Plus, the historic Bacon House Museum will be open for viewing. This FREE event is weather dependent.
Experience all of Schoepfle Garden this year. We recommend planning several visits throughout the year as there is a constant turnover of blooms and colors throughout the garden. Walking tours of the garden give you an up-close view of all the garden highlights. Take a tour of the garden or the Schoepfle House (see schedule listed to GARDEN TOURS right) and watch for seasonal walks and gardening tip Every 3rd Wed. of the month | 10 am strolls and programs. Tram rides are also available and allow everyone to view all 20 acres of Mr. SCHOEPFLE HOUSE & GARDEN TOURS Schoepfle’s garden. Every 2nd Sat. of the month | 11 am One area of the garden you can’t miss with the kids is the Children’s Garden (pictured right) on the west side of GARDEN TRAM TOURS the park. Kids can explore the musically themed areas, Every Tue. & Thur. | 10 am - 1 pm splash in the waterfall stream or take a ride on the First come, first served carousel starting in May and June (see schedule listed to right). There will be all kinds of programs for kids CAROUSEL SCHEDULE throughout the summer, including our Dino Garden Party May: Every Wed. & Sat. from 1-4 pm in June, Unicorn Tea Party in July, and a 15th birthday June: Every Wed. & Sat. from 1-4 pm AND celebration in August! every Fri. from 10 am-Noon
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Pa rsle y
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Thy me
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Dil l Re dC har d
Kids & Family LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’ FAMILY-ORIENTED PROGRAMMING
Golden Egg Hunt Wed., Apr. 13 | 5-6:30 pm Cascade Park, Elyria $5/person Use a map for clues as you hunt for the golden eggs hidden around the park! Each egg will have 1 letter on it that you will need to write down and remember. Once you find all 8 eggs, unscramble the letters to figure out the hidden word, and win a prize! Afterwards, enjoy a slice of pizza, pop and a photo opp inside the Cascade Nature Center. You will have an opportunity to learn more about the Eastern Cottontail Rabbit and enjoy additional activities as well. Pre-registration required by April 10 and registration opens on March 27.
Easter Saturday BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY
EASTER EGG EXPRESS & EGG HUNT
Sat., Apr. 16 | 10:30 am Miller Nature Preserve, Avon $12/adults | $10/child (3-10 years) | Free: children under 3 Join us for the Bunny Breakfast! The menu includes bacon, sausage, pancakes, eggs, and a beverage. After breakfast, meet with the Easter Bunny, participate in activities both indoors and outdoors, and receive a treat bag. Pre-registration for all participants is required by April 10.
Sat., Apr. 16 | 10 am-1 pm Carlisle Reservation, Visitor Center Celebrate the Easter season at Carlisle Visitor Center with a ride on the Easter Egg Express Train! After you hop off the train, head over to the field to participate in an Easter Egg Hunt. This event is free and open to all children and their families. Please bring your own basket and dress for the weather as the hunt will go on rain, snow, or shine! Pre-registration for all participants (and train riders) is required by April 15.
LAKEVIEW EASTER EGG HUNT
SCHOEPFLE GARDEN EGG HUNT
Sat., Apr. 16 10 am, 11 am & 12 pm (time blocks) Lakeview Park Spring is here and so is the Easter Bunny! Don’t miss this year’s Annual Lakeview Egg Hunt, bring a basket or bag to collect eggs and be sure to dress for the weather! This event is free, however, pre-registration is required for all participating children (ages 2-11 years). Registration required only for participating children, not accompanying adult. Children will be registered under a specified group and time block. There will be 10 groups of 10 children, 100 kids per time block, 300 kids total (300 spots available for registration). Families with multiple children should all register under the same group number and time block.
Sat., Apr. 16 | 10 am Schoepfle Garden, Birmingham Kids can collect eggs for prizes, pictures with the Easter bunny, and a scavenger hunt in the garden! Arrive early with limited parking. This event is free and pre-registration is requested, however walk-ins are welcome.
LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121
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Earth Week
ICON KEY:
= Pre-registration Required = Minimal Fee Required = Live Animal
PROGRAMS AND EVENTS GEARED TOWARD CELEBRATING EARTH WEEK
Earth Week Celebration l April 18-24
Celebrate living on Earth through a variety of hands-on activities, hikes, opportunities to make a difference, and so much more! Keep up-to-date with us on social media and on our website during Earth Week to get the latest info, games and activities!
C e l e b r a t i o n April 4 - 24, 2022* | 10am - 4pm *Closed Sun., Apr. 17
French Creek Reservation, Nature Center The Black River connects communities, supplies clean drinking water, provides valuable wildlife habitats, contributes to the local economy, and delivers a vast array of recreational opportunities. Join us at French Creek Nature Center as we celebrate the Black River by showcasing the past, present, and future story of this vital waterway
through hands on, interactive displays, exhibits, presentations and live animals. The Black River Exhibit will be open for visitors 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from April 4-24 (closed Easter, April 17). Weave your way through the exhibit discovering how fish shelves and the great blue heron rookery have become indicators of a healthy river. Interact with the Black River watershed map table to see if you live within the watershed boundaries. Envision the many species of animals that depend on the Black River for food, habitat and of course a source of water at the touch table with pelts, skulls and other biofacts. Engage with the vast history of the river by listening to the sounds of people whose lives were affected by the Black River. From Lake Erie’s shores to the southern tips of the county, the Black River watershed is a true benefit to our communities and surrounding wildlife. We hope you will join us at French Creek Nature Center for an exhibit that will entice you to become a steward and guardian of our amazing Black River!
FOR ACCOMPANYING PROGRAMS, HIKES, AND ACTIVITIES, VISIT: LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM/BLACK-RIVER-CELEBRATION Sponsored by: LORAIN COUNTY
B L A C K R I V E R C E L E B R AT I O N
PHOTO CONTEST Share your best photograph, which depicts the theme “The Black River: A Resource Worth Celebrating” and you could win! Entries will be accepted from Feb. 18 until March 18. All photographs will be displayed at the Black River Celebration Exhibit, April 4-24, 2022 (closed April 17), 10 am-4 pm, at the French Creek Nature Center. Three lucky winners will be selected
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based on public voting online and inperson! First prize includes: • Photograph used as the cover of the July/August 2022 Arrowhead • Individual (1) Annual Membership to Splash Zone Aquatics Center in Oberlin ($270 Value) • One (1) Free Shelter Rental at any LCMP location to be used in 2022 ($30 Value) • LCMP Gift Basket ($50 Value)
A complete listing of rules and specifications can be found online at: loraincountymetroparks.com/black-river-celebration.
Conservation
in the Lorain County Metro Parks
As winter turns to spring, conservation efforts continue around the park district. To control flooding and erosion along the French Creek in Avon, crews completed early winter projects to modify and seed wetlands to benefit wildlife and human populations. Our conservation teams have recently shifted attention to Eastern Hemlock trees to watch and fend off two invasive insects: Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) and Elongate Hemlock Scale (EHS). These pests have devastated Eastern Hemlocks’ populations across the Eastern US and Canada. Both insects have been reported in Cuyahoga County, and EHS has been identified
in parts of Lorain County. However, neither has been found in Lorain County Metro Parks as of this writing. With the coming of spring, conservation efforts also return to invasive plant identification and control among our native wildflower populations. LCMP land stewards will select specific sites within the park district for prescribed burns in the coming months (for more info on prescribed burns, see article to right). Other areas and invasive plant species will be targeted and controlled by mechanical and chemical means throughout the spring and summer. Want to help with Conservation throughout LCMP? Seasonal programming will be offered throughout the spring and summer. Search our online Programs Schedule for keywords such as CONSERVATION, GARLIC MUSTARD, INVASIVE SPECIES, or BIO BLITZ for dates and timing.
Why burn? ‘Prescribed’ or ‘controlled burns’ are used by land stewards and fire managers to meet specific management goals. A prescription (plan developed in advance) considers the safety of park visitors and staff, weather and environmental conditions, the size/area of the site, and the amount of fuels present at the time of the burn. At LCMP, burns are tools used to manage prairie habitat by: • Reducing fuels to aid in wildfire prevention • Maintaining an optimal balance of desired plant growth and development • Improving habitat conditions for wildlife benefit
Arbor N ATI O N AL
DAY
Tree Donations This year is the 150th anniversary of Arbor Day, a holiday that celebrates nature and the importance of trees. Arbor Day is celebrated in all 50 states, most commonly on the last Friday in April (Friday, Apr. 29th, 2022). However, some states celebrate on a date during their planting season. Globally, over 40 nations have a version of Arbor Day when individuals and groups are encouraged to plant trees. The idea of a "tree-planting" celebration has its roots in the Spanish village of Mondoñedo, which held the first documented arbor plantation festival in 1594. The first American Arbor Day sprouted from the mind of Julius Sterling Morton, then secretary of the Nebraska Territory, who had a passion for trees. On January 4, 1872, Morton first proposed a tree-planting holiday called "Arbor Day" at an annual meeting of the Nebraska State Board of Agriculture. The celebration date was set for April 10, 1872. Prizes were offered to counties and individuals for the largest number of properly planted trees on that day, which led to an estimated one million trees being planted in Nebraska's soils on the first Arbor Day! In 1970, President Richard Nixon designated the last Friday in April as National Arbor Day. He called upon the people of the United States to observe that day with ceremonies and activities designed to direct public attention and involvement in planting trees for the enjoyment of all. For information and resources on tree identification, planting and care, educational activities, and conservation efforts, visit arborday.org.
The Lorain County Metro Parks offers a limited opportunity for native trees to be donated and dedicated in honor/memory of a loved one or to celebrate or commemorate an event or organization. The monetary donation required can vary, but pricing starts at $350. LCMP does not permit any mark, plaque, or signage for tree donations. While LCMP performs the highest levels of care, trees are not guaranteed to remain in place perpetually. Trees may need to be removed due to weather, damage, disease, or other factors. LCMP will ensure a tree remains in place for one calendar year from planting. For more information, visit: loraincountymetroparks.com/gifts-and-donations. For questions, contact Mariah at: pr@loraincountymetroparks.com or call (440) 458-5121.
LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121
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Cultural Arts DISCOVER ARTS, THEATRE & HISTORY
2022 Theatre Season
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featuring guest companies
The 2022 Theatre season features a mixture of French Creek Theatre shows and guest company productions ranging from indoor musicals to outdoor plays and from ballets to improv comedy shows! Don't miss your chance to engage with the local art scene throughout our beautiful park district this year! The entire season is listed below in chronological order with guest company productions featuring an asterisk.
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Olde Towne Hall Theatre's THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SNOOPY* Apr. 22, 23, 29, 30, May 1**, 6, & 7 | 7:30 pm
**All shows at 7:30 pm except May 1 matinee show beginning at 2:00 pm
French Creek Nature Center - Ewing Hall
North Pointe Ballet's THE WIZARD OF OZ* Fri., May 20 | 7:00 pm Lakeview Park, Lorain
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THE FRANK AND DEAN & MORE SHOW* Fri., June 3 | 7:30 pm French Creek Nature Center - Ewing Hall
SOMETHING DADA - Improv Comedy Show* Fri., July 15 | 7:30 pm French Creek Nature Center - Ewing Hall
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SHREK THE MUSICAL, JR.
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Aug. 5, 6, 7**, 12, 13, & 14** | 7:30 pm
**All shows at 7:30 pm except Aug. 7 & 14 matinee shows beginning at 2:00 pm
French Creek Nature Center - Ewing Hall
North Pointe Ballet's BALLET IN THE PARK* Fri., Aug. 26 | 7:00 pm Lakeview Park, Lorain
THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE Sep. 16-18 | 7:30 pm Vermilion River Reservation - Bacon Woods Amphitheatre
STEEL MAGNOLIAS Dec. 9, 10, 11**, 16, 17, & 18** | 7:30 pm
**All shows at 7:30 pm except Dec. 11 & 18 matinee shows beginning at 2:00 pm
French Creek Nature Center - Ewing Hall *Denotes a guest company production
(1) Olde Towne Hall Theatre's 'The World According to Snoopy!'; (2) North Pointe Ballet's 'The Wizard of Oz'; (3) 'The Frank and Dean & More Show'; (4) Something DADA; (5) FCT's 'Shrek the Musical, Jr.'; (6) North Pointe Ballet's 'Ballet in the Park'; (7) FCT's 'The Haunting of Hill House'; (8) FCT's 'Steel Magnolias'
LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM | (440) 458-5121