2024 Preservation Parks Fall Program Guide

PRESERVATION PARKS OF DELAWARE COUNTY PROGRAMS & EVENTS • FALL 2024

What’s Inside • Step Into Fall • Trailapalooza • Honeysuckle Hackfest

Join us this fall to celebrate our 50th anniversary!

PRESERVATION PARKS MISSION To protect and conserve the natural and historic features of Delaware County and to inspire outdoor exploration and learning.

Park Hours MARCH - OCTOBER 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily NOVEMBER - FEBRUARY 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily

Chipmunk Photo by Robyn Strickland

District Office and Mary McCoy Nature Center 2656 Hogback Road Sunbury, Ohio 43074 740-524-8600 Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

(Office) Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

(Nature Center) Visitor Center at Deer Haven Park

The Preservation Parks Foundation supports a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the park district and raises funds for special projects including the Deer Haven aviary, trails, and renovation of Delaware County’s Bicentennial Barn.

You can make your secure, online contribution today or anytime here. https://preservationparks.com/foundation/

4183 Liberty Road Delaware, Ohio 43015 740-362-0283 Daily, 12 - 5 p.m.

Gallant Farm 2150 Buttermilk Hill Road Delaware, Ohio 43015 740-595-3020 MAY - AUGUST Mon, Closed Tue-Sat, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sun, 12 - 5 p.m.

SEPTEMBER - APRIL Mon-Wed, Closed Thu-Sun, 12 - 5 p.m.

Cover Photo by Carrie Baas Blues Creek Park

The Preservation Parks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization as designated by the IRS. Gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

The organization’s tax identification number is 83-2234653. All donations directly support the programs, projects, and services of Preservation Parks of Delaware County.

Blues Creek Park 9627 Fontanelle Road Ostrander, 43061

Hogback Ridge Park 2656 Hogback Road Sunbury, 43074

Char-Mar Ridge Park 7741 Lewis Center Road Westerville, 43082

Hoover Scenic Trailhead 8405 Plumb Road Galena, 43021

Deer Haven Park 4183 Liberty Road Delaware, 43015

McCammon Creek Park - North section open 3675 E. Orange Road Lewis Center, 43035

Emily Traphagen Park 5094 Seldom Seen Road Powell, 43065

River Run Park 168 Main Road Delaware, 43015

Gallant Farm 2150 Buttermilk Hill Road Delaware, 43015

Sandel Legacy Trailhead 168 S. Vernon St. Sunbury, 43074

Gallant Woods Park 2151 Buttermilk Hill Road Delaware, 43015

Shale Hollow Park 6320 Artesian Run Lewis Center, 43035

Hickory Woods Park 1271 Pollock Road Delaware, 43015

Sycamore Run Park 7341 Olentangy River Road Delaware, OH 43015 PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

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REGISTRATION INFORMATION HOW TO REGISTER

Some programs have a fee and/or require advance registration. Watch for programs with the following symbols:

To register for a program, visit https://preservationparks.recdesk.com First time users: Click “CREATE ACCOUNT” and complete the questions to set up your FREE account.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the Outdoor Connections Department at (740) 524-8600 x 103 or register@preservationparks.com.

Scan QR code for all program dates and descriptions or to register.

Preservation Parks turned 50 years old in 2024. Enjoy a timeline of our park history at the Deer Haven Park Visitor Center and add to our time capsule at various community events.

To learn more about our past, visit: preservationparks.com/50th-anniversary.

https://preservationparks.recdesk.com

SOCIAL MEDIA MOMENTS

Join us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest park district updates and fun outdoor adventures.

Follow us @PreservationParks

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PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

For complete descriptions of all our programs or to register, visit

https://preservationparks.recdesk.com

Registration for fall programs opens at noon, Wednesday, Aug. 14.

STEP INTO FALL, HIKE THEM ALL, p 6 Sept. 1 - Nov. 30 DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR, p 5 Sept. 14 - 21 PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE PHOTO CONTEST, p 13 Entry Deadline is Nov. 3

AUGUST

30 Movie Under the Stars, p 4 31 Sun Gazing, p 4

SEPTEMBER

1 Star Stations, p 4 7 Tree ID, p 6 7 Saturday Yoga & Hike, p 6 8 Fly Fishing for Vets, p 6 9 Golden Marathon, p 7 21 Model Railroaders Open House, p 7 21 Monarchs & More, p 7 22 Model Railroaders Open House, p 7 22 Monarchs & More, p 7 23 Golden Marathon, p 7 24 Fungus Among Us, p 7 27 Family Game Night, p 8 28 Storytime at the Farm, p 12 28 Make It, Take It: Scarf, p 8 29 Paddle & Restore, p 8 29 Gallant Farm Literary & Cowpie Society, p 12 30 Golden Marathon, p 7

OCTOBER, CONTINUED

6 Scout Badge Day, p 10 7 Golden Marathon, p 7 13 All About Apples, p 12 14 Golden Marathon, p 7 18 School’s Out Bird Adventure, p 10 18 Scarecrow Building Contest, p 13 19 Little Adventurers, p 9 19 Model Railroaders Open House, p 7 20 Trick or Treat Trail, p 13 20 Model Railroaders Open House, p 7 21 Golden Marathon, p 7 26 Trek Your Trails, p 10 27 Gallant Farm Literary & Cowpie Society, p 12

NOVEMBER 2 Saturday Yoga & Hike, p 6 4 Golden Marathon, p 7 9 Chillin’ with Mammals, p 10 10 Knit for Victory, p 12 14 Homeschool Adventures, p 11 16 Honeysuckle Hackfest, p 11 16 Model Railroaders Open House, p 7 17 Model Railroaders Open House, p 7 18 Golden Marathon, p 7 21 Intro to Medicinal Plants, p 11 22 Make It, Take It: Wreath, p 11 23 Make It, Take It: Wreath, p 11 24 Trek Your Trails, p 10 24 Make It, Take It: Wreath, p 11 25 Make It, Take It: Wreath, p 11

DECEMBER

1 Gallant Farm Literary & Cowpie Society, p 12

OCTOBER

2 Little Adventurers, p 9 2 Learn to Crochet Series, p 9 5 Trailapalooza, p 9 5 Try It: Electric Bikes, p 9 5 Saturday Yoga & Hike, p 6 PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

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Step into the “Far Out” realm of space at this immersive exhibit. Explore the mysteries of distant planets as you journey through stunning displays and interactive exhibits. Learn about the unique characteristics of each planet, from the scorching heat of Mercury to the icy depths of Neptune. Marvel at constellation patterns and discover their navigational significance. Embark on a journey of discovery and gain a deeper appreciation of your place in the universe.

SHALE HOLLOW PARK EXHIBIT

MAY 25 – AUG. 18: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

AUG. 24 – SEPT. 1: Saturday and Sunday only, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

LAST DAY: SEPT. 2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

CLOSING WEEKEND MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: HOME

Friday, Aug. 30, 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.

Gallant Farm, All Ages Movies is rated G Come with your family to a “Far Out” free outdoor movie at Gallant Farm. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the animated DreamWorks comedy, Home.

SUN GAZING WITH PERKINS OBSERVATORY

Saturday, Aug. 31, 1 - 3 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, All Ages Observe our incredible day star, the Sun, through a special telescope! Experience the solar spectacle safely with expert guidance from Don Stevens, Director of Perkins Observatory.

STAR STATIONS

Sunday, Sept. 1, 1 - 3 p.m.

Shale Hollow Park, All Ages Our partners from Ohio Nature Education will have different astronomy-themed activities set up for you to enjoy!

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PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR Sept. 14 - 21 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Delaware County Fairgrounds Join us at the Delaware County Fair! We will have displays, activities, 50th anniversary giveaways, and special guests all week long.

PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

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PARK PROGRAMS STEP INTO FALL: HIKE THEM ALL

Sept. 1 - Nov. 30, All Ages All Our Parks Hike all Preservation Parks’ nature trails, including two new paths, this fall. Register for free, or purchase a hiking stick and custom medallion for $15 or a custom medallion for $5. Then download your nature trail checklist to mark your journey.

TREE ID

Saturday, Sept. 7, 9:30 a.m.

Deer Haven Park, All Ages Join Delaware County Master Gardeners Jon Kerr and Nora Hiland in discovering ways to identify Ohio native trees. An indoor presentation and game will be followed by practicing identification skills on an accessible path near the Visitor Center.

SATURDAY YOGA & HIKE

Ages 15+ Enjoy beautiful fall days with an outdoor/ indoor yoga class. After yoga, enjoy a 40 minute hike led by a naturalist.

Sept. 7, 10 a.m.

Shale Hollow Park - Outdoor Oct. 5, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

McNamara Park - Outdoor Join us as a part of Trailapalooza (p. 8) Fly FIshing 101

Nov. 2, 10 a.m.

Shale Hollow Park - Indoor

FLY FISHING FOR VETS

Yoga & Hike

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PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

Sunday, Sept. 8, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Hickory Woods Park Adult Military Personnel and Veterans Register by Sept. 1 Experience the restorative and healing power of nature while fly fishing. All levels welcome. Equipment and instruction will be provided by Project Healing Waters for all military personnel and veterans.

GOLDEN MARATHON

Presented by SourcePoint Mondays, 9 a.m., Ages 55+ Get moving this season with SourcePoint’s Golden Marathon outdoor hikers. We hike in all weather! Register at MySourcePoint.org/ec. Meet at locations listed, bring your own water, and be prepared for the weather and terrain.

Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Nov. 4 Nov. 18

Deer Haven Park Shale Hollow Park Char-Mar Ridge Park Emily Traphagen Park McCammon Creek Park Hogback Ridge Park Gallant Woods Park Shale Hollow Park

MODEL RAILROADERS OPEN HOUSE

Sandel Legacy Trail Depot, All Ages Stop by model railroad open houses during these fall weekends. Members of the model railway group will share the history of railroads in America.

Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sept. 21, Oct. 19, Nov. 16 Sundays, 12 - 4 p.m.

Sept. 22, Oct. 20, Nov. 17

MONARCHS & MORE

Saturday, Sept. 21 & Sunday, Sept. 22 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, All Ages Fly over to the Visitor Center for games, crafts, and refreshments to celebrate our local insects – especially monarch butterflies! See live monarch tagging at 2 p.m. – weather permitting.

Model Railroaders Open House

FUNGUS AMONG US

Tuesday, Sept. 24, 6 p.m.

Emily Traphagen Park, Ages 18+ Embark on an exciting journey into the world of fungi, as you learn about their important role in our ecosystems. This program includes a 0.75-mile hike on a flat gravel trail.

Monarchs & More Deer Haven Park

Jack-o-lantern mushroom

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PADDLE & RESTORE

Sunday, Sept. 29, 3 - 4:30 p.m.

Alum Creek Reservoir Howard Road Boat Launch Ages 18+ Register by Sept. 22, $20 per person Registered Yoga Teacher Jen Hegerty RYT 500 offers a serene paddling excursion in Alum Creek State Park’s stunning northern section. Experience nature while doing simple stretches and resting on your boat followed by a guided meditation.

Kayaks provided by

An Evening Under the Paper Moon

FAMILY GAME NIGHT

Friday, Sept. 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Gallant Woods Park, All Ages Register by Sept. 25 Bring your loved ones, your competitive spirit, and prepare for a night filled with laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition surrounded by nature. For families of up to 5 people.

MAKE IT, TAKE IT: FLOWER POUNDING SCARF

Saturday, Sept. 28, 2 - 4 p.m.

Blues Creek Park, Ages 14+ Register by Sept. 14, $10 per person Create beautiful botanical-inspired designs using native plants to add vibrant colors to fabric and paper. With a hammer, imprint these natural hues onto a scarf and note cards, crafting unique and personalized pieces.

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PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

Birds & Boating

TRAILAPALOOZA

Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

McNamara Park, Char-Mar Ridge Park, & More!

All Ages Bike along the Ohio to Erie Trail starting at McNamara Park where you can enjoy a free yoga class and snacks.

Ride north to Char-Mar Ridge Park for a forested scavenger hunt or hike, then hop back on your bike and explore the charm of Galena, Sunbury, and beyond.

TRY IT: ELECTRIC BIKES Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

McNamara Park Bikes provided by Jeff ’s Bicycle Repair

Little Adventurers

LITTLE ADVENTURERS: FALL

Wednesday, Oct. 2 & Saturday, Oct. 19 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, Ages 0-5 Drop in to enjoy informal self-guided stations during fall-themed, hands-on activities and crafts. Children must be accompanied by a guardian and the whole family is welcome.

LEARN TO CROCHET SERIES

Wednesdays, Oct. 2, 9, 16, and 23 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, Ages 12+ Register by Sept. 25, $20 per person Learn to crochet in this four week series.

Each week will focus on a different step in the crocheting process and participants can take their work home to practice!

Participants receive a ball of yarn and crochet hook to keep at the end of the series.

Sandel Legacy Trail

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SCOUT BADGE DAY

TREK YOUR TRAILS

SCHOOL’S OUT BIRD ADVENTURE

Oct. 26 Blues Creek Park

Sunday, Oct. 6, 1 - 3 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, Ages 7 - 13 Attention all Scouts! Come to the Visitor Center to participate in activities that will help complete the requirements for a bug badge. Not a scout? That’s okay! Come anyway to join in the fun.

Friday, Oct. 18, 11 a.m.

Deer Haven Park, Ages 5+ Register by Oct. 16 Craft your very own bird feeder and learn about local bird species in this hands-on workshop. Then watch and identify birds at the bird feeding station. Children must be accompanied by a guardian and the whole family is welcome

Red-eyed vireo Photo by Jerry Guy

10:30 a.m., All Ages Discover your parks on a guided hike led by a naturalist! Learn about local flora, fauna, and natural history. Trekking poles and binoculars are available, first come first serve. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Nov. 24 McCammon Creek Park - North Section

White tailed deer Photo by Luke Garrison

CHILLIN’ WITH MAMMALS

Saturday, Nov. 9, 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Shale Hollow Park, All Ages Celebrate mammals through fun activities and crafts, then try a bowl of vegan or venison chili. Meet live mammals with special guest Ohio Nature Education.

Nuthatch Photo by Clayton Conley

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PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

Ohio Nature Education is a private, not-for-profit organization that provides a home for non-releasable wild animals and offers engaging nature programs featuring these remarkable birds and animals. Visit ohionature.org to learn more.

HOMESCHOOL ADVENTURES: PLUNGE INTO PLANTS

Thursday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, Ages 7 - 12 Classify fruits and vegetables, identify plant parts, complete a craft, and discover different plants that call Ohio home by rotating through different self-guided stations.

INTRO TO MEDICINAL PLANTS

Thursday, Nov. 21, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, Ages 15+ Register by Nov. 20 Explore the fascinating world of medicinal plants with pharmacist and naturalist, Lisa Choy. Learn about the healing properties and traditional uses of Ohio’s native plants.

Make It, Take It: Natural Wreath

HONEYSUCKLE HACKFEST

Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Deer Haven Park, All Ages Become a Hacker! Help restore our ecosystem by removing invasive honeysuckle, a threat to our natural areas.

Learn effective removal techniques and yard hacks while supporting ongoing conservation efforts and particpate in family-friendly activities.

Visit https://naturedads.com/ honeysuckle-hack-fest-2024/ to learn more.

MAKE IT, TAKE IT: NATURAL WREATH

$10 per wreath Make a wreath out of natural items that you can take home to display for the winter season. Pick the date that works best for you and sign up today! Classes fill up quickly.

Friday, Nov. 22, 6 p.m.

Shale Hollow Park, Ages 18+ Register by Nov. 18 Saturday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m.

Shale Hollow Park, Ages 18+ Register by Nov. 18 Saturday, Nov. 23, 2 p.m.

Shale Hollow Park, Ages 18+ Register by Nov. 18 Sunday, Nov. 24, 1 p.m.

Shale Hollow Park, All Ages Register by Nov. 18

Volunteer honeysuckle removal

Monday, Nov. 25, 10 a.m.

Shale Hollow Park, Ages 18+ Register by Nov. 18 PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

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GALLANT FARM The 1930s-era Gallant Farm offers programs for all ages, plus a book club that will get you thinking ... and discussing!

You are invited to visit Gallant Farm this season and make yourself at home!

STORYTIME AT THE FARM

Saturday, Sept. 28, 10:30 a.m.

Gallant Farm, Ages 0-5 with Adult Come listen to a cozy fall story on the farm! Enjoy tales of harvest adventures, friendly animals, and the charm of autumn amid the colorful surroundings.

ALL ABOUT APPLES

Sunday, Oct. 13, 12 - 4 p.m.

Gallant Farm, All Ages Apples were a vital dietary staple during winter months in the past. Come to Gallant Farm to try different apple varieties and sample various apple dishes.

KNIT FOR VICTORY

Gallant Farm

GALLANT FARM LITERARY & COWPIE SOCIETY

Sunday, Nov. 10, 1 - 3 p.m.

Gallant Farm, All Ages On the home-front during WWII, American homemakers kept busy by knitting. Try your hand at knitting for the first time or bring a project you’ve already begun.

Gallant Farm, Ages 12+ Join us for a lively discussion of each month’s featured book. We typically read titles that were popular during the Great Depression and WWII years, or books focusing on those time periods.

Sunday, Sept. 29, 2 p.m.

Killers of the Flower Moon: Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI

by David Grann Sunday, Oct. 27, 2 p.m.

Gap Creek

by Robert Morgan Sunday, Dec. 1, 2 p.m.

Gilead

by Marilynne Robinson 12

PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

Gallant Farm

SCARECROW BUILDING CONTEST Friday, Oct. 18, 5:30 p.m.

Gallant Woods Park, All Ages Register by Oct. 13 Bring the whole family to build a scarecrow. Frame and stuffing provided; you bring clothing and other items to decorate your unique scarecrow. Judging will take place during Trick or Treat Trail on Oct. 20.

Trick or Treat Trail Gallant Woods Park

TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL

Sunday, Oct. 20, 1 - 4 p.m.

Gallant Woods Park, All Ages Bring the kids in costume to gather treats from characters along the enchanted nature trail. Decorate pumpkins, enjoy a hayride, meet some creepy critters, vote for your favorite scarecrow, and visit Gallant Farm across the road. It’s all free!

Sponsored by

Trick or Treat Trail Gallant Woods Park

PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE PHOTO CONTEST Entry Deadline is 11:59 p.m., Nov. 3, 2024.

The 2024 contest is open for submissions!

Visit our website to view all contest rules and to see last year’s winners.

Gallant Farm

2023 Best of Show Photo by Cyndi Shepherd

PRESERVATIONPARKS.COM | FALL 2024

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2656 Hogback Road Sunbury, Ohio 43074 preservationparks.com