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1 AUTUMN 2018

2 That s how many of you (some of you 10,910,271 hundreds of times) have visited a Metro Park or one of our Greenways trails in In fact, you all have been coming to our parks for almost 70 years and never in higher numbers. Without you, we don t exist and Central Ohio isn t quite as special. For this, I thank each and every one who visits, travels to or supports our park system. As we head toward the 70th anniversary of our first park, Blacklick Woods, I often marvel over how our Metro Parks have become the number one place for everyone to visit and gather in all of Central Ohio. It s truly amazing. To commemorate this joyous occasion, we re throwing Blacklick Woods a birthday party on October 20. Please join us for food, fun and lots of activities! See page 3 for details. Speaking of fall, we re getting ready to ask the voters of Franklin County for their continued support on November 6. Your Metro Parks are funded through a voted on levy which requires us to go to you, the voter, to support our mission every 10 years. The Park District is very proud of our accomplishments and projects planned for the next decade. We feel as if this is one of the most perfect forms of government, where you get to tell us how you feel about the services we provide. As you ve heard me say a million times, there s no better season than right now to get out and enjoy one of your 19 Metro Parks. Why visit just one when you can visit them all. Tim Moloney, Executive Director 2 To learn more, visit metroparks.net from the executive director Blacklick Woods - 70th Birthday Bash Kids on a school visit to Blacklick Woods Metro Park s zoo in the 1950s. connect with us contents Sat Oct 20, 10am Join us for the 70th anniversary of the opening of Blacklick Woods, the first of your 20 Metro Parks. Celebrate the park and its history with fun activities for kids, adults and families. Meadows Picnic Area Metro Parks Levy FAQ_ tiny.cc/mp-fb 4 Map _ 6 tiny.cc/mp-inst Parks_ 8 About Us_ 28 tiny.cc/mp-tw Programs_ 29 Front cover photo: Janice Piette tiny.cc/mp-ytube tiny.cc/mp-blog tiny.cc/mp-news Web metroparks.net info@metroparks.net Information Reservations Fax InfoLine John Bonnett To learn more, visit metroparks.net 3

3 Metro Parks Levy FAQ Franklin County voters will have the opportunity to approve a 0.95-mill property tax on November 6, 2018 Q: Why Now? A: Metro Parks 0.75 mill, 10-year levy expires at the end of We plan to be on the November 2018 ballot rather than the spring 2019 primary ballot. Going in an odd numbered year costs the park system considerably more (in spring 2009 we paid almost $700,000 to be on the ballot). At this time, we do not know the costs because not all issues or candidates have filed to be on the ballot. Per election laws, if we go on the ballot in an even-numbered year, we are charged only for the cost of the ballots and advertising. Additionally, there are more issues and races during a mid-term election, reducing costs even more. Since the park district incurs these costs, we will be paying a fraction of what we paid in 2009, thereby saving Franklin County taxpayers money and being able to use the funds for park activities, maintenance and other business. Walnut Woods Metro Park (Mindi McConnell) Q: Did Metro Parks fulfill all of its levy promises? A: Yes! In the last 10 years, we opened four parks (Walnut Woods, Rocky Fork, Homestead and Scioto Grove), conducted 36,000 free programs and events for kids, adults and families, completed more than 50 miles of trails, opened the Battelle Darby Creek, expanded Scioto Audubon Metro Park and restored hundreds of acres of wetlands, prairies and forests. Most importantly, Metro Parks continued to manage and operate the parks system in an economically sound and efficient manner on the most self-sustaining basis possible, for the enjoyment of nearly 11 million visitors annually to the parks. Q: How much will the levy cost? A: The cost to the owner of a $100,000 home for the 0.95-mill levy will be about $33.00 annually. This will be an annual increase of $12.82 from the current 0.75-mill levy. Not much money for the best park system in the country. Can t take a family of four to the movies for less than that! The Franklin County Auditor will lock in the exact amount right after the election. Metro Parks is a bargain the cheapest tax payment for a major metropolitan park system in Ohio. Q: How long will the levy last? A: The ballot issue is a proposed 10-year levy, so it will run until Q: How much money will the levy provide? A: The 0.95-mill levy will provide about 28 million annually. Q: How will Metro Parks use the money from the levy? A: 1. Metro Parks will continue to provide the highest level of customer service for park visitors by providing quality programs and activities and by maintaining and improving existing parks, trails and facilities. 2. As Central Ohio grows so does the need for open space and recreational opportunities. Metro Parks plans to acquire and develop three new park areas over the next 10 years. Quarry Trails Metro Park Metro Parks will continue to acquire additional land and develop experiences at the former Marble Cliff Quarry along the Scioto River in Columbus. Community trail connections will be made to provide access to more than 325,000 people who live within 5 miles of this park. Northeast Area Parkland Preservation We will work to connect Blendon Woods, Inniswood, Rocky Fork and Hoover Reservoir with the communities of Columbus, Westerville and New Albany through trails and additional land holdings. Scioto South Parkland Preservation We will continue to conserve open space with the addition of land adjacent to the Scioto and Big Walnut river corridors in southern Franklin County. 3. Expand programs for youth, adults, families, seniors and people with disabilities. 4. Expand and develop trails to enhance access to parks while providing alternative means of transportation. 5. Continue our efforts to preserve and conserve natural areas to protect habitat for plants and animals, improve water quality and provide quiet sanctuaries where people can take time out, enjoy nature, relax and revitalize. Q: Does the public support the levy? A: Overwhelmingly, yes. Over the last 10 years, attendance has risen to 11 million visitors annually, an increase of 5 million. In the 2018 Metro Parks Community Survey of 600 registered Franklin County voters, 82 percent of voters support the Metro Parks proposed 0.95-mill levy and 94 percent believe Metro Parks are a community asset that benefits people of every age and walk of life. Metro Parks are recognized as providing a good value on public investment and improving quality of life and property values as well as protecting natural resources. The survey was conducted by Saperstein Associates, nationally recognized specialists in public opinion research. Quarry Trails Metro Park (Walker Evans) 4 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 5

4 Hempstead Rd Heritage Trail Park Blacklick Pickerington Rd Columbus & Franklin County METRO PARKS Hoover Reservoir Alum Creek Reservoir O Shaughnessy Reservoir Schleppi Rd Harlem Rd Sunbury Rd Ohio to Erie Trail 23 Riverside Powell Rd Drive Brock Rd 750 Glacier Ridge Polaris Pkwy Rocky Fork Rock y Fork Sharon Woods Highbanks 257 Walnut St Brevelhymer Rd Park Rd Main St Inniswood Worthington Galena Rd Central C ollege Rd E. Schrock Rd Hyland Croy Rd 270 Cemetary Pike Post Rd New Albany Rd 161 Dempsey Rd Dublin-Granville Rd Blendon Woods Tuttle Rd Cleveland Ave Tuttle Crossing Blvd Cosgray Rd Hamilton Rd Amity Pike Morse Rd Olentangy Heritage Trail Creek Cherry Bottom Rd Wilcox Rd Big Walnut Creek River Hayden Run Rd 270 Alum Creek Trail Olentangy Trail 33 Dublin Rd 270 Avery Rd Alum High St 315 Scioto Darby Rd 670 Creek 3 Darby Creek Trail Homestead Amity Rd 16 Scioto Trail Scioto River Plain City Georgesville Rd Roberts Rd Prairie Oaks Blacklick Woods & Golf Courses I-670 Trail Main St Brice Rd Livingston Ave 70 Broad St Amity Rd High Free Pike 40 Blacklick Creek Creek Hamilton Rd Alum Creek Dr Scioto Audubon Scioto Trail Darby Bowen Rd Camp Chase Trail Darby Creek Dr Darby Creek Trail Wright Rd Long Rd Big Creek Spangler Rd Little Darby Creek Blacklick Creek Trail Wright Rd Gender Rd Williams Rd Alkire Rd 256 Parsons Ave Pickerington Ponds Bowen Rd Winchester Pike 3 Hill Rd Bixby Rd Norton Rd High St Three Creeks Groveport Rd Waterloo St Waterloo Rd 674 Scioto Grove Winchester Rd Mason Rd Slough Rd Lithopolis-Winchester Rd 317 Lithopolis Rd Rd London Groveport Winchester Rd Rd Richardson Rd Walnut Woods Battelle Darby Creek Chestnut Ridge Northern Rd Amanda 674 Perrill Rd Neiswander Rd Winchester Walnut Creek 104 B i g Duvall Rd D arby Creek 71 Marcy Rd Slate Run Farm and Park Clear Creek 116) 116 lear Cr e ek Rd C (C R To Lancaster Cle ar Creek Seven miles south of Lancaster on US Greenway Trails

5 BATTELLE DARBY CREEK Mac Albin BLACKLICK WOODS Kye Feasel Battelle Darby Creek is the largest Metro Park Blacklick Woods was the first Metro Park and features a 54-acre state nature preserve Battelle Darby Creek boasts more than 7,000 acres of forests, prairies, bluffs, wetlands and streams. Big and Little Darby creeks harbor about 100 species of fish and more than 40 species of mussels, including the federally endangered clubshell and northern riffleshell. A remarkable diversity of species of birds, butterflies and other wildlife are also found in the forests and remaining prairies that line the creek banks. The park boasts more than 600 acres of lush prairies and 1,000 acres of restored wetlands and wet prairies. Bison have been reintroduced to the Darby Plains in one of the prairie areas intersected by the Darby Creek Greenway Trail. A 14,000 sq-foot nature center features a 53-foot living stream, stocked with creatures found in Big Darby Creek, plus interactive exhibits that highlight the natural and cultural history of the area. For information on the park s rental facilities go to metroparks.net or phone Darby Creek Drive, Galloway OH ACRES 7,103 Ancient (1.9 miles), Camp Chase (12.5 miles) Cobshell (0.8 miles), Darby Creek Greenway (5 miles), Dyer Mill (3.2 miles) Edgewood, Lake & Prairie Way (2.3 miles) Harrier Loop, Rail Way & Teal (3 miles) Hawthorn (0.8 miles), Indian Ridge (0.6 miles) Riffle Run (0.2 miles), Terrace (2 miles) Turkey Foot (0.5 miles), Wagtail (1.6 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Hunting, Ice Skating, Natural Play Area,, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding tiny.cc/mp-bdc Cedar Ridge area: 6:30am to 10pm April Sept 6:30am to 8pm October March All other park areas 6:30am to dark year-round Cell phone Blacklick Woods opened in 1948 and boasts one of the best beech-maple forests in Franklin County, along with a swamp forest and buttonbush swamp. A walk along the trails provides healthy exercise as well as an excellent opportunity to view white-tailed deer, coyotes, mink and other wildlife in a purely natural setting. The park has numerous excellent vantage points for birding. Barred owls are a prominent attraction for birders in spring. The nature center s observation windows allow visitors to view birds and other wildlife at the feeders. The Walter A Tucker State Nature Preserve is a heavily wooded 54-acre area featuring a buttonbush swamp. The seasonal swamp pools are prime locations for breeding salamanders and frogs. For information on the park s rental facilities go to metroparks.net or phone : 6975 E Livingston Ave Reynoldsburg OH ACRES: 643 : Beech (0.5 miles) Blacklick Creek Greenway (16 miles) Buttonbush (0.5 miles) Maple Loop (0.9 miles) Multipurpose (4.1 miles) Walter A Tucker (0.1 miles) ACTIVITIES: Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Golf Courses, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding : tiny.cc/mp-blk : 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone: : Golf Course: To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 9

6 BLACKLICK WOODS GOLF COURSES Terrence Peck BLENDON WOODS Dan Bissonette Blacklick Woods Golf Course is spread over 235 acres of beautiful park land Blacklick Woods Golf Course feature an 18-hole regulation course (par 72), a 9-hole executive course (par 30), a full-service driving range with a short game area, and three practice holes. For tee times, golf outings or banquets, call Tee times can also be booked online. Forty acres of the course s 235 acres are natural area a place where birds and birdies peacefully coexist. Audubon International has certified the golf courses as a Cooperative Sanctuary for their comprehensive environmental management and protection of wildlife habitats. Metro Parks has developed the courses with a long-range vision of protection and enhancement of the natural environment. In addition to regular golf cart rentals, Metro Parks has two solo adaptive carts for rental by golfers who are physically challenged and can no longer play golf the conventional way. These carts allow you to play from tee to green without ever having to leave the cart. As home to First Tee of Central Ohio, Metro Parks has turned a 10-week summer program at Blacklick Woods Golf Course into a yearround outreach program. First Tee is an amazing program that teaches life skills and leadership through the game of golf to youth age 7 to 17. Last year more than 1,000 youth participated with us in this nationally recognized program. For more on First Tee of Central Ohio visit their website: thefirstteecentralohio.org Golf Course details 7309 E Livingston Avenue, Reynoldsburg OH tiny.cc/mp-blkg 6:30am to dark Golf shop phone Blendon Woods features the 118-acre Waldon Waterfowl Refuge Blendon Woods features 653 acres of gently rolling woods and open fields. More than 230 species of birds have been seen at the park. At the heart of the Waldon Waterfowl Refuge, the 11-acre Thoreau Lake is a magnet for migrating waterfowl and shore birds. It includes two elevated observation shelters with spotting scopes that allow for a close-up view of waterfowl without disturbing them. Birds frequently seen at Thoreau Lake include pied-billed grebes, great blue and green heron, wood duck, lesser scaup, American black duck, mallard, northern pintail, northern shoveler, American wigeon and hooded merganser. The nature center s wildlife observation window offers a view of The Creek, a 100-foot-long construction mirroring natural creeks in the park. Ice skating enthusiasts can enjoy a safe 0.4-acre skating pond, only 18 to 24 inches deep. The park also features an 18-hole disc golf course. Loaner discs are available. For information on the park s rental facilities go to metroparks.net or phone E Dublin-Granville Rd, Westerville OH ACRES 653 Brookside (0.8 miles), Goldenrod (1.3 miles) Hickory Ridge (0.3 miles), Lake (0.3 miles) Overlook (0.6 miles), Ripple Rock (0.4 miles) Sugarbush (2 miles) ACTIVITIES Cross-Country Skiing Day Camp Disc Golf, Ice Skating Natural Play Area Pets, Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-bln 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 11

7 CHESTNUT RIDGE Cheryl Bach CLEAR CREEK Mac Albin Chestnut Ridge is the first ridge in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains Clear Creek is home to Ohio s largest state nature preserve The park is situated on a narrow outcropping of Blackhand sandstone, deposited more than 300 million years ago when Ohio s ancient ocean drained from the land. The high hills that make up the ridge span about 4,500 feet and rise to 1,116 feet at the highest point. Black oak, shagbark hickory and northern red oak trees along the upper slopes and ridge enhance the woodland beauty of the 486-acre Metro Park. Sugar maples and American beech trees are plentiful along the lower slopes. MOUNTAIN BIKING The 9-mile Mountain Bike Trail through the woods provides a terrific workout for mountain bike enthusiasts of all abilities. The 12- to 18-inch-wide trail is on an all-natural surface and features a 230-foot change in elevation. The trail was designed and built by volunteers with the Central Ohio Mountain Bike Organization (COMBO). There is also a Pump Track, a loop of dirt berms and rollers, great for cyclists of all ages and abilities Winchester Rd NW Carroll OH ACRES 486 Homesite (0.4 miles) Meadows (1 mile) Milkweed (0.6 miles) Ridge (1 mile) Mountain Bike (9 miles) ACTIVITIES Fishing Mountain Biking Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-chr 6:30am to dark Cell phone Clear Creek Metro Park features over 5,300 acres of woodland interspersed with blackhand sandstone cliffs, ravines and creeks and is home to more than 2,200 species of plants and animals. Forested areas range from Canadian hemlocks and ferns, to oak and hickory, to Ohio s last remaining colonies of rhododendron. Ohio Audubon has recognized Clear Creek as an Important Bird Area. It is one of the few places in Ohio to observe 20 species of breeding warblers. The valley is home to nearly 100 species of breeding birds, including black vultures, scarlet tanager, veeries, wood thrush, hermit thrush and wild turkey. About 40 species of plants and animals listed on Ohio s rare and endangered species list have been found within the park. State threatened great rhododendron and a large variety of ferns can be seen in the ravines. The topography of the park is extremely rugged. Centuries of glacial flooding have cut the present valley through the Black-hand sandstone leaving an array of spectacular cliffs, steep ravines and scenic outcroppings of rock overlooking the creek Clear Creek Rd Rockbridge OH ACRES 5,390 Cemetery Ridge (2.5 miles) Chestnut (2.5 miles) Creekside Meadows (1.7 miles) Fern (1.7 miles) Good Prairie (0.3 miles) Hemlock (1.5 miles) Lake (0.9 miles) Prairie Warbler (0.6 miles) Tulip Tree (0.6 miles) ACTIVITIES Fishing Pets Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-clc : 6:30am to dark Office phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 13

8 GLACIER RIDGE Bryan Knowles GREENWAYS Cheryl Blair Glacier Ridge is named for the ridge or end moraine left when glaciers retreated 14,000 years ago More than 50 species of birds have been seen at Glacier Ridge Metro Park s restored wetlands in the Honda Wetland Education Area. The wetlands include a boardwalk and a 22-foot observation tower to see waterfowl and other animals. Mink have been seen frequently in the area. The park has a bridle trail, the Savannah Trail, with a staging area for horse trailer parking. There is also a free 18-hole disc golf course, open year-round (bring your own discs). A natural play area features cedar structures with towers, ramps, ropes, ladders and a zipline. A 3-acre obstacle course features 12 challenging stations surrounded by a half-mile paved trail. Visitors can crawl through tunnels, climb poles and ropes and go over logs and more. The 2.5-acre dog park features an open field, drinking fountains, paved path and a wooded area for dogs to explore and is open to dogs of all sizes Hyland Croy Rd Plain City OH ACRES 1,036 Ironweed (2.8 miles) Marsh Hawk (3 miles) Red Oak (0.8 miles) Savannah (5 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking Cross-Country Skiing Disc Golf Horseback Riding Natural Play Area Obstacle Course Pets (including Dog Park) Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-glr 6:30am to dark Cell phone Greenway trails connect scenic rivers with the diverse neighborhoods of Central Ohio Metro Parks works with several agencies and communities to create and maintain parts or all of the Greenway trails shown on this page for the citizens of Central Ohio. The Central Ohio Greenways are multi-use trails used for recreation and alternative transportation. They connect people to the places they live, work and play as well as preserve open space to promote air and water quality. (More information at tiny.cc/mp-gtr or from MORPC at: Greenway Trails ALUM CREEK (24.5 miles) Runs south from Westerville to Three Creeks BLACKLICK CREEK (16 miles) Connects Pickerington Ponds, Blacklick Woods and Three Creeks Metro parks CAMP CHASE (12.5 miles) Part of the Ohio to Erie Trail, weaves through Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park DARBY CREEK (8.5 miles) Crushed gravel trail with separate sections that run through Battelle Darby Creek and Prairie Oaks Metro parks HERITAGE (6.5 miles) Runs from Old Hilliard to Plain City, through the Heritage Trail Park and along Homestead Metro Park DOWNTOWN CONNECTOR (5 miles) Metro Parks manages a 0.8-mile section of the trail, also known as the I-670 Trail OLENTANGY (15 miles) Scenic trail runs south from Worthington Hills Park to Confluence Park in downtown Columbus SCIOTO (10 miles) Stretches through the heart of Columbus and through Scioto Audubon Metro Park 14 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 15

9 HIGHBANKS Greg Immel HOMESTEAD / HERITAGE TRAIL Liviu Rodean Highbanks was named for the 110-foot shale bluffs on the Olentangy River Highbanks Metro Park encompasses 1,200 acres of woodlands, fields and wetlands. Three miles of the Olentangy State Scenic River run along the park s western boundary. An observation deck sits atop a towering 110- foot shale bluff overlooking the river.several prehistoric cultures used the bluffs as a lookout, including the Cole Culture who built the nearby 1,500-foot horseshoe-shaped earthwork about years ago. Eagles have nested at the park and eaglets have fledged here since The nest can be seen from this same observation deck, or from the River Bluff Area west of the Olentangy. Concretions are a noteworthy feature of the park s geology. These round rocks developed around decaying animals on the ocean floor. The fossilized jawbone of a prehistoric fish, dinichthys, was found in one. See a life-size replica of this fish in the nature center. For information on the park s rental facilities go to metroparks.net or phone : 9466 US23 N, Lewis Center OH ACRES: 1,200 : Big Meadows Path (1 mile) Coyote Run (3.5 miles) Dripping Rock (2.5 miles), Eagle View (0.3 miles) Multi-Use (2.3 miles), Oak Coves Path (0.4 miles) Overlook (2.3 miles), Scenic River (0.6 miles) Sycamore (0.4 miles), Wetland Spur (0.4 miles) ACTIVITIES: Biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Cross-Country Skiing, Day Camps, Fishing, Natural Play Area,, Pets, Picnicking, Sledding : tiny.cc/mp-hbk : 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone: : ( hours 9am to 8pm April to September, 9am to 6pm October to March) Homestead features two large playgrounds for kids Homestead Metro Park offers a quiet, country atmosphere with a covered bridge, train station replica and two barns. Other features include shelters, a 2.5-acre fishing pond, play equipment and courts for sand volleyball and basketball. A 0.8-mile paved trail, great for hiking, biking, running, or walking your leashed pet, winds through the park and connects to the 6.1-mile Heritage Trail Cosgray Rd,Hilliard OH ACRES 44 Outer Loop (0.8 miles) ACTIVITIES Fishing, Play Areas, Pets, Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-hom 6:30am to dark, Cell phone Heritage Trail is great for biking and horse riding The 87-acre Heritage Trail Park is adjacent to the Heritage Rail Trail, a 6.1-mile multi-purpose trail converted from abandoned right-of-way. The paved trail starts in Old Hilliard off Main Street and continues toward Plain City. A bridle trail runs parallel to the main trail for 3.6 miles Hayden Run Rd, Hilliard OH ACRES 87 Multipurpose (6.1 miles), Bridle (3.6 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Horse Riding tiny.cc/mp-htr 6:30am to dark, Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 17

10 INNISWOOD Lauretta Bain PICKERINGTON PONDS Dan Ferrin Inniswood boasts more than 2,000 species of plants and several feature gardens Garden details Pickerington Ponds is home to one of Franklin County s largest remaining natural wetlands : 940 S Hempstead Rd Westerville OH Wright Rd Canal Winchester OH The 123-acre Inniswood Metro Gardens is a continual source of inspiration for Central Ohioans. Streams and woodlands filled with wildflowers and wildlife provide a majestic backdrop to the beautifully landscaped gardens and lawns. There are 10 feature gardens, and more than 2,000 species of plants, which include specialty collections of hostas, daffodils, daylilies and conifers. Inniswood was once the 37-acre estate of sisters Grace and Mary Innis, who donated their home and property to Metro Parks in Over 250 members strong, our fun, energetic and dedicated volunteers provide hundreds of hours of service each month and are crucial to the success of Inniswood Metro Gardens. For more information about volunteer service and to find out about the next volunteer training class, call You can support Inniswood by becoming a member of the Inniswood Garden Society. Visit inniswood.org to learn about membership. ACRES: 123 : Boardwalk (0.5 miles) Brookwood (0.5 miles) Chipmunk Chatter (0.6 miles) Frog Talk Walk (0.1 miles) Sisters Garden Loop (0.3 miles) Spring Run (0.3 miles) ACTIVITIES: Biking/Pets (outside gardens on Chipmunk Chatter Trail) : tiny.cc/mp-inn : 7am to dark Innis House: Cell phone: Pickerington Ponds is a premier spot for birdwatching, with more than 260 species seen. The combination of seasonal ponds and rich wetland vegetation, with bordering woodlands, serve as a magnet for migrating waterfowl, shore birds and land birds. Deer, beaver, fox and other wildlife can be seen near the ponds and adjoining woods and fields of this 1,608-acre park. More than 400 acres have been designated a state nature preserve. Since 2000, Metro Parks has restored more than 750 acres of wetland and surrounding upland habitat, such as grassland and woodland, to reestablish the native wetland and plant communities that existed on the sites prior to their conversion for agriculture. The park has been designated as one of Ohio s Important Birding Areas by Audubon Ohio. Sandhill cranes are seen frequently flying over the ponds. Great blue heron and osprey nest here. ACRES 1,608 ACTIVITIES Biking Nature Preserve Pets Picnicking Arrowhead (1.7 miles) Blacklick Creek Greenway (16 miles - connects with Three Creeks and Blacklick Woods) Killdeer (1.1 miles) Meadowlark (1 mile) Yellowlegs (0.5 miles) tiny.cc/mp-pkp 6:30am to dark Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 19

11 PRAIRIE OAKS Mike Fetherolf ROCKY FORK Carey Sherrill Prairie Oaks features nearly 500 acres of lush flowering prairies and grasslands Big Darby Creek flows through the 2,203-acre park and provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventure. The Darby Watershed is nationally recognized for its ecological diversity, and is home to nearly 100 species of fish and 44 species of mussels. Darby Bend Lakes is a water recreational area, featuring three beautiful lakes. Visitors can enjoy trails, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, non-motorized boating and picnicking. There is even a doggie beach and dog-swimming area for your pet. The park features a natural play area around Beaver Lake. Ashy sunflower, royal catchfly and other prairie flowers can be seen against a backdrop of big and little bluestem grasses. Northern harriers, meadowlarks, coyote, jumping mice and Henslow s sparrow can be seen throughout the changing seasons. Metro Parks has restored 800 acres of prairies at the park, using only seed representing the native plant species of the Darby Plains Plain City-Georgesville Rd, West Jefferson OH ACRES 2,203 Alder (0.6 miles) Beaver Lake (0.9 miles) Bridle (5.7 miles) Coneflower (2.5 miles) Darby Creek Greenway (3.5 miles) Lakeview (0.9 miles) River Rock (0.7 miles) Sycamore Plains (2.2 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Boating, Canoeing/Kayaking Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing Horse Riding. Natural Play Area Pets, Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-pok 6:30am to dark Cell phone Rocky Fork includes an off-leash trail for dogs and a dog park Rocky Fork Metro Park features more than three miles of walking trails that wind through woods and fields. The park features an off-leash dog trail, the first in the park system, plus a 2-acre dog park with splash pads. The 2.5-mile bridle trail includes a separate park entrance on Bevelhymer Road for horse trailer parking. There are two picnic areas plus a grill pad in the woods. The Millstone Picnic Area has a large shelter for family picnics and a play area for kids, featuring three large climbing boulders, with an elevated boardwalk to provide ADA access to the top of one boulder. Enjoy sitting in the big wooden chairs behind the Millstone picnic shelter as you look for wildlife in the open fields Walnut St Westerville OH ACRES 1,003 Beech Woodland (1.3 miles) Bridle (2.5 miles) Dog (0.3 miles) Millstone Connector (0.5 miles) North Meadow (1 mile) ACTIVITIES Biking Horseback Riding Pets Picnicking Swings tiny.cc/mp-rky 6:30am to dark Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 21

12 SCIOTO AUDUBON Kelli Bergheimer SCIOTO GROVE Virginia Gordon Scioto Audubon is the only downtown Metro Park and features a 35-foot climbing wall An old industrial site on the Scioto River has been transformed into a 120-acre park that serves as a haven for wildlife and a place for the young at heart and urban professionals interested in active recreation. The climbing wall covers 7,000 square feet and features bouldering, top rope and lead climbing. There are four auto belays, but climbers must bring their own climbing harness. There is also a 9-station obstacle course that features nine challenging stations, including a tire run and flip, an eight-foot wall, tunnel crawl, balance beams and monkey bars, cargo climb, over/under, log run and belly crawl. The area has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Audubon and Birdlife International. More than 200 species of birds have been sighted within the IBA. Fishing and boating are available on the river and the park also features a 2.5-acre dog park and a quarter-acre butterfly garden. 400 W Whittier St Columbus OH ACRES 120 ACTIVITIES Biking Boating Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing Obstacle Course Pets Picnicking Rock Climbing Scioto Greenway (2 miles) Hermit Thrush (0.1 miles) Wetland (0.4 miles) Connector Trails (2.5 miles) tiny.cc/mp-sio 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Scioto Grove features mature forests and scenic bluffs The 620-acre park has more than seven miles of trails, two picnic areas with shelters, tables and grills, a kids play area and several overlook decks. The park is located on a scenic bend of the Scioto River and is a great destination for canoeists, kayakers, anglers and people wanting to see waterfowl and other wildlife. Dogs on leashes are welcome throughout the park, which also features a sledding hill. A 3D archery course (and a separate static or traditional archery course) makes the park the place to go for archery enthusiasts. With support from outdoor retailer REI, we constructed a backpack trail along the river for those just getting into the sport, as well as those seasoned backpackers who want a quick overnight without having to journey several hours. Backpacking is free and reservations can be made by calling Backpacking available for reservation every other weekend from mid-april to the end of Ocober. For information on the park s rental facilities go to metroparks.net or phone Jackson Pike Grove City OH ACRES 620 Arrowhead (1.3 miles), Hickory (0.6 miles) Mingo (2.5 miles), Overlook (1.7 miles) REI River (1.2 miles) ACTIVITIES Archery Backpacking Canoeing/Kayaking Drone Field Fishing Pets Sledding tiny.cc/mp-sgr 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 23

13 SHARON WOODS Allison Shaw SLATE RUN FARM & PARK Daniel White Sharon Woods features oakhickory, beech-maple and swamp forests in its 761 acres Slate Run Wetlands are the site of nesting sandhill cranes The park includes seven miles of trails, with two miles winding through the 320-acre Edward S Thomas State Nature Preserve, named in honor of a renowned Ohio naturalist and one of Metro Parks founding park board members. The park has eight species of oaks, some more than 250 years old, plus large hickory, maple and beech trees. The 11-acre Schrock Lake provides a scenic backdrop where you can enjoy the splashing of waterfowl, glimpse a painted turtle sunning on a rock or see a spectacular sunset. Catch and release fishing is allowed from the lake s four docks. The park boasts a 7.5-acre natural play area where you can wander off-trail, climb trees, dig in the mud and experience unstructured play in nature. There are two sledding hills for winter fun. For information on the park s rental facilities go to metroparks.net or phone Cleveland Ave Westerville OH Spring Hollow Lodge Lodge: 1069 W Main St, Westerville OH ACRES 761 ACTIVITIES Biking, Fishing, Natural Play Area Nature Preserve, Pets, Picnicking Sledding Edward S Thomas (1.1 miles) Lake (0.4 miles) Oak Openings (0.2 miles) Spring Creek (1.8 miles) Multipurpose (3.8 miles) Connector (0.3 miles) tiny.cc/mp-shn 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone A 156-acre wetland wildlife refuge features a mosaic of restored marshes, meadows and ponds. More than 150 species of birds have been recorded here, including northern harriers, sandhill cranes, green herons and nesting blue-winged teal. The park s grassland area includes prairie grasses, cool-season grasses, hardwood forest and remnant wooded fence rows and is one of the premier butterfly and birding sites in Central Ohio. It is also home to savannah, grasshopper and Henslow s sparrows, bobolinks, eastern meadowlarks and other wildlife. The 14-acre Buzzard s Roost Lake is also a magnet for birds. Slate Run Living Historical Farm The historical farm provides opportunities for visitors to compare farm work and family life of the 1880s with their lives today. As you stroll through the gardens, barns and farmhouse, you will see the farm s costumed staff and volunteers going about their daily chores. Pigs, geese, turkeys, sheep, Percheron horses and other heirloom animals can be seen. : 1375 SR674 North Canal Winchester OH ACRES: 1,705 : Bobolink (1.5 miles) Camp Starview (2 miles) Covered Bridge (0.5 miles) Five Oaks (1.5 miles), Kokomo (1.5 miles) Lake (0.4 miles) Sassafras (2.5 miles - horseriding only) Shagbark (0.5 miles), Sugar Maple (1.4 miles) ACTIVITIES: Day Camps, Fishing, Horseback Riding Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking : tiny.cc/mp-slr OR tiny.cc/mp-srf : 6:30am to dark Cell phone: Farm phone: To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 25

14 THREE CREEKS John Bonnett WALNUT WOODS Mindi McConnell Three Creeks is named for the confluence of Alum, Blacklick and Big Walnut creeks Walnut Woods is bordered by Walnut Creek and features dramatic stands of pine trees 3860 Bixby Road Groveport OH Lithopolis Rd Groveport OH Three Creeks is made up of five distinct areas connected through the Alum Creek Greenway Trail. Metro Parks operates the Confluence Trails and Heron Pond areas and the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department operates the Madison Mills, Smith Farms and Sycamore Fields areas. This most creek-centric of Ohio s parks is the major hub in the Franklin County Greenways program, an interconnected system of trails along the major streams in Central Ohio. You can fish for bluegill, largemouth bass, catfish and crappie in Heron and Turtle ponds, and also fish in Alum, Big Walnut and Blacklick creeks, home to over 25 species of fish. More than 100 species of birds have been sighted in the park. The ponds on the west side of the park along the Alum Creek Greenway Trail provide seasonal wetlands for waterfowl and shore birds. The Bluebell and Confluence trails feature enormous cottonwoods and sycamores and produce one of the best displays of woodland wildflowers in spring. ACRES 1,100 Alum Creek (24.5 miles) Blacklick Creek (16 miles) Bluebell (1 mile) Confluence (1mile) Evergreen (0.5 miles) Heron Pond (0.6 miles) Madison Mills (0.2 miles) Sycamore Fields & Smith Farm trails (1.2 miles) Turtle Pond (0.4 miles) ACTIVITIES Biking, Canoeing/Kayaking, Fishing Natural Play Area, Pets, Picnicking tiny.cc/mp-thc 6:30am to 10pm April to September 6:30am to 8pm October to March Cell phone Walnut Woods includes restored wetlands that provide habitat for waterfowl such as geese, swans, mallards, wood ducks, mergansers and teals. Some of the wetlands dry out in summer and create a muddy habitat ideal for shorebirds and wading birds, such as killdeer, Wilson s snipe, greater and lesser yellowlegs, bitterns, rails and various species of sandpipers. Several vernal pools attract breeding amphibians in spring. There are numerous buckeye trees alongside the creek, and long rows of old nursery trees, such as serviceberry, crab apple and red maples. The Tall Pines Area is noted for pine and sweetgum trees. There are two dog parks in the Buckeye Area, one for large dogs (20 pounds and over), and another for small dogs. The 3-acre large dog park includes a separate fenced doggie swimming pond, and a small shade shelter with a picnic table. The 1-acre small dog park also includes a shade shelter and picnic table. ACRES 1,098 Buckeye (2 miles) Kestrel (1.3 miles) Monarch (1.4 miles) Sweetgum (2.6 miles) ACTIVITIES: Biking Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing Pets Picnicking Sledding tiny.cc/mp-wal 6:30am to dark Cell phone To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 27

15 Battelle Darby Creek programs about us Metro Parks are vitally important to establishing and maintaining the quality of life in our Central Ohio community, ensuring the health of families and youth and contributing to the economic and environmental well-being of a community and a region. Metro Parks attract nearly 11 million people per year and offer exceptional settings for renewal of the human spirit. Visitors can enjoy healthy, fun-filled interaction with the natural world every day of the year. Each year, Metro Parks naturalists offer over 4,000 free programs for individuals of all ages and abilities. metro parks programs Sept, Oct, Nov 2018 (advanced registration opens Aug 22) METRO FIVE-0 programs for ages 50 and older are color-coded by degree of difficulty: LEVEL 1 (easy, fully accessible) LEVEL 2 (slow pace, less than 1-mile hike) LEVEL 3 (up to 2-mile hike, moderate pace) LEVEL 4 (hike over two miles at strenuous pace) Established in 1945, Metro Parks operates 19 natural area parks in seven Central Ohio counties, and provides more than 230 miles of trails. The park system protects more than 27,500 acres of land and water and offers year-round recreational and educational op por tunities for youth and adults. Facilities and programs are available to the public free-of-charge made possible by voter support of the 2009 Metro Parks levy. The Mission of Metro Parks is to conserve open spaces, while providing places and opportunities that encourage people to discover and experience nature. In accordance with its mission, Metro Parks works to conserve and enhance habitat for the more than 2,400 species of animals and plants that thrive within the parks. Funding for Metro Parks comes from Franklin County property tax, local government funds, earned income, grants and partnerships. Metro Parks is a separate political subdivision of the state of Ohio organized under Ohio Revised Code, Section Metro Parks Board of Park Commissioners, composed of three citizens who serve three-year terms without compensation, governs the Park District. Board members are appointed by the Judge of the Probate Court of Franklin County. Metro Parks Board of Park Commission ers meets monthly. Meetings are open to the public. Visit metroparks.net for meeting time, dates and location. Board of Park Commissioners JB Hadden Greg S Lashutka Jim McGregor Executive Director Tim Moloney opportunities Metro Parks is committed to conserving natural resources and providing places and opportunities that encourage people to discover and experience nature. To accomplish this goal, a well-trained, dedicated and talented staff is necessary. Job opportunities are very diverse and encompass a wide variety of positions ranging from park technician to naturalist and park ranger, as well as seasonal and internship opportunities. Check frequently on the web at tiny.cc/mp-jobs. The online application system makes the application process faster, easier, and more eco-friendly. BATTELLE DARBY CREEK SEPTEMBER LABOR DAY MAMMAL DISPLAY See skins, scat, skulls and skeletons. SEP 1 SAT 1PM BIRD DISPLAY See mounts, eggs, nests and skulls of songbirds, raptors and waterfowl. SEP 2 SUN 1PM ARCHERY Stop by and learn to use a simple compound bow and shoot at targets. Ages 8 and older SEP 2 SUN 2PM COLD-BLOODED CRITTERS DISPLAY View a display of amphibians and reptiles. SEP 3 MON 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: LET S GET SQUIRRELY Learn why squirrels are so nutty. SEP 4 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM PHOTO GROUP: I CAN DO THAT! Experienced photographers will tell how they create their best images. Ages 18 and older SEP 8 SAT 10AM YOGA IN THE PARK Learn movements in an outdoor setting to rejuvenate your mind and body. Ranger Station SEP 8 SAT 11:30AM FEED THE STREAM Give the fish worms and crickets and watch the feeding frenzy. SEP 16 SUN 1PM MORNING WALK WITH THE BISON Not a cow, not a buffalo, it s a bison! Join us for a 1-mile hike to see this 2,000-pound mammal. SEP 23 SUN 8AM 28 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 29

16 Battelle Darby Creek programs Battelle Darby Creek programs PRESCHOOLERS: LET S GET SQUIRRELY Learn why squirrels are so nutty. SEP 28 FRI 11AM OR 1PM DECIDUOUS IS DELICIOUS Take a short walk and learn about the tasty treats that trees and shrubs provide. SEP 29 SAT 11AM MANTIS MANIA Hunt for these bizarre insects and watch them eat. SEP 30 SUN 1PM FEED THE STREAM Give the fish worms and crickets and watch the feeding frenzy. OCT 6 SAT 1PM DARBY CREEK DAY Enjoy seining, noodling for mussels, canoeing, fly-fishing, live animals and more along the creek. Meet representatives from organizations working to protect the Darby Watershed. Indian Ridge Picnic Area OCT 7 SUN 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: PUMPKINS Explore the mysteries of pumpkins. OCT 9 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM YOGA IN THE PARK Learn movements in an outdoor setting to rejuvenate your mind and body. Ranger Station OCT 13 SAT 11:30AM PHOTO GROUP: OPTIMIZE HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE (HDR) PROCESSING Find out about research to simplify setup, capture and processing to get that special HDR look. Ages 18 and older OCT 13 SAT 10AM BISON BISON Not a cow, not a buffalo, it s a bison! Join us for a 1-mile hike as we learn about this 2,000-pound mammal. OCT 14 SUN 1PM NATURE PRINT CONTEST View the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. OCT SAT-SUN 9AM SPOOKY SPIDERS Learn about these 8-legged creatures and see how many you can find on a short hike. OCT 21 SUN 1PM FULL MOON HIKE Take a brisk moonlit 4-mile hike through fields and forests. Ranger Station OCT 24 WED 7PM PRESCHOOLERS: PUMPKINS Explore the mysteries of pumpkins. OCT 26 FRI 11AM OR 1PM FALL FEST PUMPKIN HIKE Enjoy a self-guided 1.5-mile hike on a jack-o-lantern lit trail. Indian Ridge OCT 27 SAT 6PM GRAVEYARD HIKE Take a 4-mile off-trail hike to prehistoric Native American and pioneer burial grounds. Ranger Station OCT 28 SUN 1PM NATIONAL BISON DAY Celebrate the bison! Enjoy crafts, games and snacks in the nature center. Learn all about our national mammal and meet the herd on a short walk. There might even be a special guest appearance from the bison s only natural predator! Check the website for details. NOV 3 SAT 1PM OFF-TRAIL HIKE Explore remote areas of the park on a 6-mile hike. Ranger Station NOV 10 SAT 9AM PHOTO GROUP: IMAGE REVIEW Photographers discuss how they create their best images. Share your photos and receive feedback. NOV 10 SAT 10AM YOGA IN THE PARK Learn movements in an outdoor setting to rejuvenate your mind and body. NOV 10 SAT 11:30AM OWLS Take a 2-mile walk along the creek and try to call in owls. Indian Ridge NOV 11 SUN 8PM FEED THE STREAM Give the fish worms and crickets and watch the feeding frenzy. NOV 11 SUN 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: TURKEY TIME Discover why we celebrate this special bird. NOV 13 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM BUCKEYE FEVER Learn about our state symbols and make your own buckeye necklace. NOV 17 SAT 10AM SUNSET BISON CAMPFIRE Walk 1 mile to see the bison as the sun sets over the prairie and then enjoy roasting marshmallows around the campfire. NOV 17 SAT 4:30PM NATURE CRAFTS Create easy crafts with materials found in the wild. NOV 25 SUN 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: TURKEY TIME Discover why we celebrate this special bird. NOV 30 FRI 11AM OR 1PM 30 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 31

17 Blacklick Woods programs Blacklick Woods programs BLACKLICK WOODS SEPTEMBER LABOR DAY DISPLAY See our display about nature s hardest working animals. SEP 1 SAT 8AM MORNING COFFEE AND WILDLIFE WATCH View animals through the nature center windows and enjoy a cup of coffee. SEP 1 SAT 8AM INSECT CHORUS WALK Take a 1.5-mile walk to listen to the loud singing insects. SEP 1 SAT 8PM LABOR DAY DISPLAY See our display about nature s hardest working animals. SEP 2 SUN 8AM FAMILY CREEKING Take a 2-mile round-trip walk to explore Blacklick Creek. SEP 2 SUN 4PM LABOR DAY DISPLAY See our display about nature s hardest working animals. SEP 3 MON 8AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 FALL FUNGI Take a short hike to look for mushrooms and learn fun facts about fungi. Ages 50 and older SEP 5 WED 3PM TOTS ON Share a slow-paced 0.5-mile walk with your toddler and discover nature together. Ages 4 and younger SEP 6 THU 10AM SCOUT DAY: JUNIORS FLOWERS Juniors will participate in activities geared toward earning the Girl Scouts: Juniors Flowers badge. SEP 8 SAT 2PM WILD FOOD EXPLORATION Join Kate Hodges of Foraged & Sown and Wild Food is Everywhere on a 1-mile walk to uncover and experience late summer flavors. SEP 9 & HOMESCHOOLERS: FUNGUS AMONG US Learn about the hidden world of fungi and go on a walk to look for mushrooms. Ages 6-12 SEP 10 MON 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: RIDING AND WADING Share a slow-paced 0.5-mile walk with your toddler and discover nature together. Take the tram to Blacklick Creek and walk in the water. SEP 12 WED 1PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 NATURE TRAM Take a tram ride through the park. Ages 50 and older SEP 14 FRI 3PM NATURE TRAM Take a tram ride through the park. Ash Grove Picnic Area SEP 15 SAT 11AM BUGS & BLOOMS Take a 2-mile walk to see fall wildflowers and the insects that visit them. SEP 16 SUN 2PM EVENING TRAM RIDE Take a tram ride through the park. Ash Grove Picnic Area SEP 21 FRI 7PM NATURE TRAM Take a tram ride through the park. Ash Grove Picnic Area SEP 23 SUN 3PM SEP 29 SAT 3PM FALL COLORS DISPLAY See our display and discover the science behind the changing colors of leaves. OCT 6 SAT 8AM MORNING COFFEE AND WILDLIFE WATCH View animals through the nature center windows and enjoy a cup of coffee. OCT 6 SAT 8AM FALL COLORS DISPLAY See our display and discover the science behind the changing colors of leaves. OCT 7 SUN 8AM PRESCHOOLERS: BATS, CATS & RATS Learn about these animals of Halloween through stories, activities and crafts. Beech Maple Lodge OCT 10 WED 10AM OR 1PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 FALL INTO PHENOLOGY Learn about phenology, the study of seasonal natural occurrences, and how it can help us understand the natural world. Ages 50 and older OCT 15 MON 3PM NATURE BABIES Enjoy stories about nature, learn some nature signs in American Sign Language and practice signing. Ages 2 and younger OCT 18 THU 10AM 70TH BIRTHDAY BASH! Celebrate the anniversary of the opening of the first Metro Park with activities for kids, adults and families. Meadows Picnic Area OCT 20 SAT 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: DECOMPOSERS Learn about the process of decomposition through an interactive activity. Ages 6-12 Beech Maple Lodge OCT 22 MON 10AM OR 1PM 32 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 33

18 Blacklick Woods programs Blacklick Woods / Blendon Woods programs TOTS ON THE TRAIL: STOMP AND CRUNCH Explore fall colors on a slow-paced 0.5-mile walk. Ages 4 and younger OCT 25 THU 10AM NATURALLY SPOOKY DISPLAY Celebrate Halloween at our display about nature s spooky animals. OCT SAT-SUN 8AM LEAF CRAFTS Welcome fall with a variety of leaf crafts. OCT 27 SAT 1PM LITTLES LEAF JUMP Celebrate fall with your toddlers and watch them jump in a large leaf pile. Ages 5 and younger Meadows Picnic Area OCT 28 SUN 4PM EVENING HOUR Break your daily routine and take an early evening 2-mile walk in the woods. Ages 18 and older OCT 29 MON 6PM NATURE BABIES Enjoy stories about nature, learn some nature signs in American Sign Language and practice signing. Ages 2 and younger NOV 1 THU 10AM MORNING COFFEE AND WILDLIFE WATCH View animals through the nature center windows and enjoy a cup of coffee. NOV 3 SAT 8AM ART IN THE PARK: NATURE DRAWING Draw an autumn nature scene. Materials provided. Beech Maple Lodge NOV 7 WED 6PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 LANTERN HIKE Take a 2-mile lantern-lit hike through the fields and forests. Ages 50 and older NOV 9 FRI 6PM TWO-FOR-YOU Take the first step for your health and join us on a 2-mile walk. Ages 18 and older NOV 10 SAT 10AM NATURE PRINT CONTEST View the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. Golf Course Banquet Room NOV SAT-SUN 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: SOCIAL INSECTS Learn about insects that work together to survive. Ages 6-12 Beech Maple Lodge NOV 12 MON 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: TOTALLY TURKEYS Discover what life as a wild turkey is all about through discussion, stories, activities and a craft. Beech Maple Lodge NOV 14 WED 10AM OR 1PM LANTERN HIKE Take a 2-mile lantern-lit hike through the forest. NOV 16 FRI 6PM WILD TURKEY DISPLAY Learn about Ohio s gobblers at our display. NOV SAT-SUN 8AM YOU CAN EAT THAT Take a 1-mile hike to learn about what wild edible plants are available in the late fall. NOV 18 SUN 2PM NATURE KIDS OWL PELLETS Learn about an owl s diet by dissecting its regurgitated leftovers. Ages 8-12 NOV 21 & (2 SESSIONS) TURKEY CRAFTS Celebrate Thanksgiving with a variety of turkey-themed crafts. NOV 23 FRI 1PM WINTER IS COMING DISPLAY View a display about animals and how they prepare for winter. NOV SAT-SUN 8AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 1 GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE Get started planning your garden next year by watching a presentation on ways you can make your yard more attractive to wildlife. Ages 50 and older NOV 26 MON 3PM EVENING HOUR Break the daily routine and visit the park for an early evening 2-mile walk in the woods. Ages 18 and older NOV 30 FRI 6PM BLENDON WOODS SEPTEMBER MONARCH WEEKEND See butterflies, caterpillars and chrysalises; learn what to plant to attract butterflies and hike with a naturalist to find them. (1pm & 4pm). Enjoy games, activities, crafts and a puppet show. (2pm) SEP 1-2 SAT-SUN 1PM MONARCH MONDAY Learn about the monarch butterfly, what you can do to help this beautiful insect and help release them. SEP 3 MON 1PM FALL WARBLER WALK Enjoy a 2-mile hike to find migrating warblers. SEP 9 SUN 8AM 34 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 35

19 Blendon Woods programs Blendon Woods programs SINGING INSECTS Walk 2 miles on the trails and listen to the singing insects. SEP 15 SAT 8PM PAWPAW PROWL Walk 2 miles on the woodland trails to look for pawpaws. SEP 15 SAT 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: OH DEER! Discover these white-tailed wonders through activities, story and craft. SEP 17 MON 9:30 OR 11AM OR 1PM SEP 18 TUE 9:30 OR 11AM OR 1PM RAPTOR WEEKEND IN THE NATURE CENTER See a display, do a craft and go on a scavenger hunt to learn about Ohio s incredible birds of prey. SEP SAT-SUN 1PM RAPTOR WEEKEND: OHIO WILDLIFE CENTER Meet live raptors from Ohio Wildlife Center. SEP 23 SUN 2PM RELAXING YOGA Let the stress of the day melt away with an hour of outdoor yoga. All ages and levels welcome. Follow signs for location. SEP 24 MON 6:30PM HOMESCHOOL: WHITE-TAILED WONDERS Learn about the history and ecology of this mammal. SEP 25 TUE 10AM SEP 27 THU 1PM PRE-GAME AT THE PARK Make a buckeye necklace, roast hot dogs and s mores over the fire, enter the Punt, Pass and Kick Contest and take a nature hike before the Hut, Hut, Hike. SEP 29 SAT 12PM SEED-EATING BIRDS Search for seed-eating birds migrating through the park on a 2-mile walk. OCT 7 SUN 8AM RELAXING YOGA Let the stress of the day melt away with an hour of outdoor yoga. All ages and levels welcome. Follow signs for location OCT 8 MON 6:30PM ARCHERY Learn to shoot a compound bow. Follow signs in park for location. Natural Play Area at Cherry Ridge OCT 13 SAT 10AM, 1PM, 3PM METRO FIVE-0: ARCHERY Learn to shoot a compound bow. Follow signs in park for location. Ages 50 and older Natural Play Area at Cherry Ridge OCT 14 SUN 1PM HOMESCHOOL: FALL COLOR TRAM RIDE Discover the amazing changes autumn brings. OCT 25 THU 10AM OR 1PM FALL COLORS TRAM RIDE FOR PRESCHOOLERS How many colors can your preschooler find on a tram ride through the park? OCT 26 FRI 11AM, 1PM OR 2PM METRO FIVE-0: SUNSET TRAM RIDE Enjoy the beautiful fall colors on a ride through the park. Ages 50 and older OCT 26 FRI 6PM FALL FUN TRAM RIDES Hop on the tram to enjoy fall colors, jump in our leaf pile, roast a marshmallow and make a craft. Natural Play Area at Cherry Ridge OCT 27 SAT 1PM FALL FAMILY TRAM RIDES Hop on the tram at any Tram Stop sign to enjoy a tour of the park. Natural Play Area at Cherry Ridge OCT 28 SUN 1PM ALL HALLOWS EVE LANTERN HIKE Keep an eye out for spooky night creatures on a 2-mile lantern-lit walk through the woods. OCT 31 WED 6:45PM NATURE PRINT CONTEST View the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. NOV 3-4 SAT-SUN 1PM OFF-TRAIL ADVENTURE: EXPLORE BIG WALNUT CREEK PARKLAND Take a rugged hike through Big Walnut Creek Parkland. We ll caravan from the nature center. NOV 3 SAT 1PM WEBELOS SCOUTS: INTO THE WILD Webelos will work on adventure requirements for Into the Wild Adventure. NOV 10 SAT 10AM OR 2PM SUNRISE WILDLIFE WALK Enjoy your morning coffee on an off-trail hike around Thoreau Lake as we watch the sun and wildlife wake up. NOV 11 SUN 6:30AM WATERFOWL PHOTO PROWL Visit Thoreau Lake to photograph migrating waterfowl. NOV 17 SAT 9AM WATERFOWL WALK Walk out to Thoreau Lake to learn about visiting waterfowl. NOV 18 SUN 9AM 36 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 37

20 Blendon Woods / Clear Creek programs Clear Creek / Glacier Ridge programs PRESCHOOL: TURKEY TIME Learn about this beautiful bird through a story, craft and activities. NOV 19 MON 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM NOV 20 TUE 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM WILD TURKEY DISPLAY Stop by the nature center to learn about this bird that has made a remarkable comeback in Ohio. NOV WED-SUN 12PM RELAXING YOGA Let the stress of the day melt away with a hour of outdoor yoga. All ages and levels welcome. Follow signs for location NOV 26 MON 6:30PM HOMESCHOOL: PRIMITIVE SKILLS Try your hand at making fire and cordage and other skills used by Native Americans and early settlers. NOV 29 THU 10AM NOV 30 FRI 1PM CLEAR CREEK SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER SKIES See the Milky Way and our planetary neighbors. Call for viewing conditions. Creekside Meadows SEP 1 SAT 7:45PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 BACKCOUNTRY HIKE Explore the Lost Father s Trail on a rugged 5.5-mile hike. Ages 50 and older Park Office SEP 5 WED 10AM LOST FATHER S TRAIL HIKE Discover the Lost Father s trail on a rugged 5.5-mile backcountry hike. Park Office SEP 15 SAT 10AM NIGHT HIKE Discover nature and learn about nocturnal animals on a 1.5-mile hike. Park Office SEP 22 SAT 7:30PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 NATURE HIKE Enjoy a 3.5-mile backcountry hike. Ages 50 and older Park Office OCT 9 TUE 10AM BUZZARDS ROOST BACKCOUNTRY HIKE Experience fall in the Clear Creek Valley on a rugged 3-mile hike. Park Office OCT 13 SAT 10AM EARTH SCIENCE WEEK HIKE Join ODNR hydrogeologists for a 4-mile rugged backcountry hike to learn about the park s water resources and geologic features. Park Office OCT 14 SUN 1PM SUNSET HIKE Take a 3-mile hike and enjoy the forest at sunset. Fern Parking Lot NOV 3 SAT 5PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 4 SANDSTONE RAMBLE HIKE Take a rugged 4-mile hike to see an impressive sandstone maze and explore a cave. Ages 50 and older Maintenance Shop NOV 15 THU 10AM SANDSTONE RAMBLE BACKCOUNTRY HIKE Take a rugged 4-mile hike to see an impressive sandstone maze and explore a cave. Maintenance Shop NOV 17 SAT 10AM GLACIER RIDGE SEPTEMBER WALK AND WOOF Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Shelter House SEP 5 WED 7PM FOR ADULTS: INTRODUCTION TO NATIVE BEE KEEPING Learn about native pollinators and what you can do to help them. Ages 16 and older Shelter House SEP 9 SUN 2PM TYKE HIKE Bring your infant or toddler for a slow-paced walk. Ages 4 and younger Shelter House SEP 19 WED 10AM WELCOME TO FALL FESTIVAL Celebrate the season with hayrides, live animals, crafts and activities. Shelter House SEP 30 SUN 1PM FALL STARGAZING See planets and constellations using telescopes and binoculars. Glacier Ridge Energy Center (at the windmill) OCT 13 SAT 7PM WALK AND WOOF Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Shelter House OCT 16 TUE 6:30PM FOR KIDS: GPS CRITTER HUNT AND S MORES Use GPS units to locate critters hidden in the park and roast s mores. Ages 6-15 Shelter House OCT 22 MON 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: CREEPY CRITTERS Enjoy fun activities as you learn about some misunderstood animals such as spiders, bats and snakes. Shelter House OCT 30 TUE 10AM OR 1PM 38 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 39

21 Glacier Ridge / Highbanks programs Highbanks programs WALK AND WOOF Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike with your dog. Shelter House NOV 4 SUN 2PM LANTERN HIKE Take a night stroll through the forest lit by lanterns. Shelter House NOV 10 SAT 6:30PM WINTER IS COMING Visit with animals from the Ohio Wildlife Center and learn how animals prepare for winter. Maintenance Shop NOV 18 SUN 1PM HIGHBANKS SEPTEMBER FOR FAMILIES: TRAM RIDE Enjoy a ride through the park. Big Meadows Picnic Area SEP 1 SAT 2PM SEP 2 SUN 2PM PATRIOTIC SCAVENGER HUNT Stop by the nature center and pick up a scavenger hunt to find the red, white and blue in nature. Kids win a small prize. SEP 3 MON 12PM MOVIE IN THE PARK: BLACK PANTHER Enjoy a free outdoor screening of Marvel s Black Panther rated PG-13. Popcorn provided. Big Meadows Picnic Area SEP 7 FRI 8:15PM FOR FAMILIES: HIKE TO THE GIANTS Enjoy a rugged 4-mile off-trail hike to the 300-year old giant sycamores along the Olentangy River. SEP 9 & METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 WALK OF THE MONTH Take a 2.5-mile moderately-paced walk to discover the sights and sounds of the season. Ages 50 and older Oak Coves Picnic Area SEP 12 WED 11AM PRESCHOOLERS: CAMOUFLAGE Learn how animals stay hidden in the forest. SEP 12 WED 11AM OR 1PM SEP 13 THU 9:30 OR 11AM FOR FAMILIES: HIKE TO THE GIANTS See Sept 9 SEP 22 & HOWL AT THE MOON Take your canine friend on a 3.5-mile hike. SEP 24 MON 7:30PM CAMPFIRE & S MORES Enjoy a campfire, roast s mores and take a short hike. SEP 28 FRI 7PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 FALL BLOOMS Join a naturalist on a 1-mile hike to look for late blooms. OCT 1 MON 10AM FOR ADULTS: HIKE TO THE GIANTS See Sept 9 OCT 8 & PRESCHOOL: COLORS! Learn why leaves change colors and explore the many hues of fall. OCT 10 WED 11AM OR 1PM OCT 11 THU 9:30 OR 11AM NATURE PRINT CONTEST View the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. OCT SAT-SUN 10AM STORYTIME: SILLY SQUIRRELS Visit the nature center and listen to some stories about squirrels. OCT 15 MON 10AM FOR ADULTS: HIKE TO THE GIANTS See Sept 9 OCT 18 & FOR FAMILIES: LANTERN STROLL Carry lanterns to light the way on a 1-mile hike on the Dripping Rock Trail. OCT 19 FRI 7PM WILDLIFE Learn how animals survive winter in the wild from Ohio Wildlife Center staff. OCT 22 MON 10AM HOWL AT THE MOON Bring your canine friend on a 3.5-mile hike. OCT 24 WED 6:30PM HIGHBANKS HARVEST FEST Enjoy hayrides, jump in a giant leaf pile, make Halloween crafts, play games and roast marshmallows over a campfire. Big Meadows Picnic Area OCT 27 SAT 1PM FOR ADULTS: WILDLIFE WANDER Look for signs of wildlife as we go off-trail. Mansion Shelter NOV 2 FRI 1PM FOR FAMILIES: LANTERN STROLL Carry lanterns to light the way on a 1-mile hike on the Dripping Rock Trail. NOV 3 SAT 6:30PM WILDLIFE WANDER OFF-TRAIL HIKE Go off-trail to look for signs of wildlife. Mansion Shelter NOV 4 SUN 2PM STORYTIME: WINTER IS COMING! Visit the nature center and listen to some stories about animals preparing for winter. NOV 5 MON 10AM 40 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 41

22 Highbanks / Homestead programs Homestead / Inniswood programs NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT Complete a scavenger hunt on Election Day and win a prize. NOV 6 TUE 10AM CREATURE FEATURE: TURTLES Visit with turtles and learn how we take care of them. NOV 9 FRI 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: ANIMALS IN WINTER Learn how animals prepare for the season. NOV 14 WED 11AM OR 1PM NOV 15 THU 9:30 OR 11AM FAMILY FUN NIGHT Enjoy a campfire and explore the world of nature at dusk through displays and crafts. NOV 17 SAT 5PM HOWL AT THE MOON Bring a flashlight and hike with your canine friends on a 3.5-mile hike. NOV 23 FRI 5:30PM NOV 19 SUN 5PM HOMESTEAD SEPTEMBER GIRL SCOUT DAYS: BROWNIES BUGS Participate in activities that help fulfill the requirements for the Brownies Bugs badge. Ages 6-9 SEP 15 & FOR ADULTS: INTRODUCTION TO NATIVE BEE KEEPING Learn about native pollinators and what you can do to help them. Ages 16 and older SEP 23 SUN 2PM BUCKEYE PRIDE Learn about Ohio s state reptile, amphibian and tree and make a buckeye necklace. OCT 5 FRI 6PM FOR ADULTS: COMMUNITY BACKYARDS Learn about healthy gardens and composting from the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District. Lakeside Pavilion OCT 7 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: CREEPY CRITTERS Enjoy fun activities and learn about some misunderstood animals such as spiders, bats and snakes. OCT 10 WED 10AM OR 1PM FAMILY FUN NIGHT Enjoy activities, stargazing and a warm campfire. OCT 19 FRI 6:30PM FOR KIDS: TRICK-OR-TREAT HIKE Wear your favorite costume and earn some goodies on a 1-mile hike. Ages 2-14 OCT 28 SUN 3PM NATIVE ANIMALS IN URDU/HINDI See some live animals and learn about native Ohio wildlife in English, Urdu and Hindi. NOV 3 SAT 2PM FOR KIDS: CAMPFIRE AND SCAVENGER HUNT Earn a prize by checking all items off your list and make s mores around the campfire. Ages 3-16 NOV 6 TUE 12PM FOR KIDS: THANKSGIVING CRAFTS Create some festive holiday crafts. Ages 3-12 Lakeside Pavilion NOV 16 FRI 10AM OR 1PM INNISWOOD SEPTEMBER PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDENS: SEEDS ON THE MOVE Get to know fall fruits, from native plants with edible fruits to ornamentals with beautiful berries. Discover the incredible ways seeds find new places to grow. SEP 5 WED & (3 SESSIONS) JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Help with fall garden cleanup. Ages SEP 8 SAT & EVENING GARDEN WALK Take a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance SEP 9 SUN 6PM PLANT THIS, NOT THAT Get to know the invasive woody plants in your garden, how to get rid of them and some alternative plants to fill their space. Ages 18 and older Innis House SEP 9 SUN 2PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 FALL FRUITS Get to know fall fruits, from native plants with edible fruits to ornamentals with beautiful berries. Ages 50 and older Innis House SEP 16 SUN 2PM SCAVENGER HUNT Search for signs of animals that live in the park and earn a prize if you find them all. SEP 1-3 SAT-MON 12PM YOGA WITH THE YMCA Join our friends from the Hilliard YMCA for a fun yoga class. Lakeside Pavilion OCT 13 SAT 8AM SUNNY SUNDAYS On Sundays through the end of October, members of the Herb Society of America, Central Ohio Unit will be in the Herb Garden to answer questions. Herb Garden MEET THE ARTIST View the acrylic artwork of Teda Theis at a reception. Innis House SEP 23 SUN 2PM 42 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 43

23 Inniswood programs Inniswood / Prairie Oaks programs EVENING GARDEN WALK Take a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance SEP 23 SUN 6PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 GARDENING FOR INSECTS Learn about fall garden insects and how to attract the beneficial ones and deter the less desirable ones. Ages 50 and older Innis House SEP 30 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDENS: COUNTING IN THE GARDENS Join us as we discover lots of ways that numbers are important in nature. OCT 3 WED & (3 SESSIONS) JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Help with fall garden cleanup. Ages OCT 6 & EVENING GARDEN WALK Take a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance OCT 7 SUN 5PM GREATER COLUMBUS DAHLIA SOCIETY: FALL CARE Learn how to save your dahlia tubers for another year of blooms. Innis House OCT 7 SUN 2PM METRO FIVE-0: Level 2 FALL COLOR WALK Join us on a walk as we discuss the season s vibrant colors. Ages 50 and older Gardens Entrance OCT 8 MON 10AM TALLGRASS PRAIRIES OF OHIO Join the Columbus Chapter of Wild Ones as Guy Denny, former Chief of the State s Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, talks about the benefits and essential components of local tallgrass prairies. Innis House OCT 13 SAT 10AM MAPLES OF INNISWOOD Learn how to identify trees on a walk. Ages 18 and older Gardens Entrance OCT 13 SAT 2PM MEET THE ARTIST Join artist group Watercolor Friends at a reception to view their artwork. Innis House OCT 14 SUN 2PM GARDEN SCHOOL: SEEDS ON THE MOVE Have some fun with hands-on activities and discover how seeds get around. Ages 6-9 OCT 19 & EVENING GARDEN WALK Take a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance OCT 21 SUN 5PM HALLOWEEN PARTY Join us in the gardens for activities and crafts. Education Pavilion OCT 28 SUN 2PM JUNIOR GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Help with fall garden cleanup. Ages NOV 3 & EVENING GARDEN WALK Take a guided stroll through the gardens. Gardens Entrance NOV 4 SUN 4PM MEET THE ARTIST Meet fiber artist Susan Nash at a reception and view her work. Innis House NOV 4 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOL IN THE GARDENS: ANIMAL ARCHITECTS Join us as we get to know the animal architects in the garden and explore some of the incredible structures they build for shelter and nesting. NOV 7 WED & (3 SESSIONS) INNISWOOD BOOK CLUB Join us for a discussion of this quarter s book, Potted and Pruned: Living a Gardening Life by Carol J. Michel. Ages18 and older Innis House NOV 10 SAT 2PM HERB SOCIETY MEETING Join members of the Herb Society of America, Central Ohio Unit for their public meeting and herb program. Innis House NOV 14 WED 7PM PRESSED FLOWER WORKSHOP Students will create pressed flower artwork. Ages 18 and older NOV 17 & FAMILY CRAFT WORKSHOP Create holiday gifts. Innis House NOV 18 SUN 2PM PRAIRIE OAKS SEPTEMBER CANOE AND KAYAK THE LAKES Stop by anytime and take a canoe or kayak out for a ride around Darby Bend Lakes. Darby Bend Lakes SEP 3 MON 1PM CRAZY FOR CRAWDADS Find crawdads in the creek and dig for them hiding underground. Whispering Oaks Picnic Area SEP 8 SAT 1PM FALL HIKE Enjoy the changing colors on a rugged 4-mile hike along the creek and through the prairie. Darby Bend Lakes SEP 22 SAT 10AM FULL MOON HIKE Take a brisk 4- mile hike through the fields and forests. Darby Bend Lakes SEP 24 MON 7:30PM 44 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 45

24 Prairie Oaks / Rocky Fork programs Rocky Fork / Scioto Audubon programs LATE NIGHT FISHING Fish Darby Bend Lakes and Beaver Lake. Darby Bend Lakes SEP 29 SAT 9PM JUST FOR KIDS: OFF-TRAIL ADVENTURE Explore a secret part of the park to look for animal tracks, scat and bones and maybe even find a coyote den! Ages 6-15 Whispering Oaks Picnic Area OCT 1 MON 8AM SUNSET LAKE WATCH AND CAMPFIRE Watch the sunset, listen for frogs singing, look for bats flying and beaver swimming. Enjoy s mores around the campfire. Darby Bend Lakes OCT 6 SAT 6:30PM BEAVER BUILDINGS Take a 1-mile walk to learn about Ohio s largest rodent, visit an active beaver lodge and watch for them swimming in the lake. Darby Bend Lakes NOV 4 SUN 5PM GIANT TREE HIKE Take a 2-mile off-trail hike through the prairie and down the ravine to see one of the largest burr oak trees in the state. Whispering Oaks Picnic Area NOV 11 SUN 1PM SCREECH OWLS Look and listen for these tiny owls on a 1-mile hike. Beaver Lake NOV 18 SUN 5PM FULL MOON HIKE Take a brisk 4-mile hike through fields and forests. Darby Bend Lakes NOV 23 FRI 5PM ROCKY FORK SEPTEMBER DOG WALK Take a 1.5-mile walk with your dog. Millstone Shelter SEP 8 SAT 9AM SCOUTS ONLY: 2-MILE HIKE 2nd-4th grade scouts will learn about plants and animals and practice the leave no trace principles. Millstone Shelter SEP 16 SUN 12PM FALL COLOR WALK Enjoy fall colors as we walk 2 miles over paved and natural trails. Millstone Shelter OCT 6 SAT 10AM DOG WALK Take a 1.5-mile walk with your dog. Millstone Shelter OCT 6 SAT 9AM WINTER HAWKS Walk 2 miles to observe wintering hawks. Millstone Shelter NOV 10 SAT 9AM LEAFLESS TREE ID Learn to ID trees without their leaves on a 2-mile walk. Millstone Shelter NOV 17 SAT 2PM SCIOTO AUDUBON WEEKLY BIRD HIKE Learn how to use binoculars and search for birds. Grange Insurance Audubon Center EVERY SAT 10AM PRE-K STORYTIME Bring your little ones for a nature-inspired story or two. Grange Insurance Audubon Center EVERY THU & SAT 10AM LATE NIGHTS AT THE CLIMBING WALL The climbing wall will stay open till midnight on Sept 14 and 28, Oct 12 and 26. Climbing Wall EVERY 2ND & 4TH FRIDAY (to end of ) SEPTEMBER FALL GARDENING Tisa Watts the Columbus Garden Coach will speak on the joys of gardening and offer some tips. Grange Insurance Audubon SEP 6 THU 6:30PM ART AT AUDUBON: JIM MCCORMAC Join us to admire the work of naturalist and artist, Jim McCormac, as we share in his love of nature. (Show on display Sept 13-Oct 28) Grange Insurance Audubon SEP 13 TUE 10AM FALL FAMILY FUN DAY! Enjoy crafts, games, snacks and stories to welcome in the changing seasons. RVSP to Allison Clark, aclark@audubon.org or to ensure your spot. SEP 23 & LEARN THE ROPES Instructors will guide participants through the basics of climbing the 35-foot wall. Equipment provided. SEP 26 & CONSERVATION CONNECTION SERIES: IMPORTANT BIRDS OF THE IBA Birder Randy Rogers will talk about the Scioto-Greenlawn Important Bird Area and birds you might see during the October 6th Big Sit. Grange Insurance Audubon OCT 4 THU 6:30PM 46 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 47

25 Scioto Audubon / Scioto Grove / Sharon Woods programs Sharon Woods programs THE BIG SIT! Come and count birds with us for a few hours or the whole day. Register with Michael at mgoldman@audubon.org OCT 6 & METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 METRO PARK TOUR Join us for a 4-hour tour of the park. Ages 50 and older OCT 17 & TRICK OR TWEET! Spook up some fun with a not so scary nature themed Halloween celebration. Enjoy crafts, games, snacks, stories and a costume parade. Ohio Wildlife Center will bring some friends to help us celebrate the day. Grange Insurance Audubon OCT 27 SAT 10AM SCIOTO GROVE NATURE PRINT CONTEST View the entries and cast your vote for the People s Choice Award. The Grove OCT SAT-SUN 10AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 WALK OF THE MONTH Take a 1.5-mile walk to discover the sights and sounds of the season. Ages 50 and older Hickory Lot B NOV 14 WED 11AM HOMESCHOOLERS: ANT LIONS Explore the world of these ferocious insects through hands-on activities. Ages 6-12 Spring Hollow Lodge SEP 11 TUE 10AM OR 1:30PM GO WILD KIDS CLUB: KINDNESS ROCKS Help spread kindness throughout the world by decorating rocks and hiding them for someone else to find. Ages 5-12 Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter SEP 22 SAT 11AM HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY SHARON WOODS Celebrate the park s 50th birthday with cake and displays. Schrock Lake Picnic Shelter SEP 22 SAT 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: LUCKY LADYBUGS Explore the world of ladybugs through a story, craft and other activities. Spring Hollow Lodge SEP 26 WED 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM SEP 27 THU 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS: WILDLIFE SUCCESS STORIES Meet a few animals and learn about the wildlife species that have made a comeback in Ohio. Ages 6-12 Spring Hollow Lodge OCT 10 WED 10AM OR 1:30PM HAPPY TAILS-N- Bring your canine companion for a 2-mile hike and a doggie treat. Apple Ridge Bulletin Board OCT 10 WED 6PM LEARN THE ROPES Instructors will guide participants through the basics of climbing the 35-foot wall. Equipment provided. OCT 31 & THE SUPER POWERS OF SOLAR PANELS Learn about the importance of solar panels with Third Sun Solar and how they help create bird-friendly communities. Grange Insurance Audubon NOV 1 THU 6:30PM SHARON WOODS SEPTEMBER MUD & MADNESS Negotiate several muddy obstacles on a 1.5-mile fun family adventure. Apple Ridge Bulletin Board SEP 1 SAT 10AM CREATURE FEATURE: BATS Take a short stroll to look for and learn about these night flying mammals. Schrock Lake West Bulletin Board SEP 2 SUN 7PM HAPPY TAILS-N- Bring your canine companion for a 2-mile hike and a doggie treat. Apple Ridge Bulletin Board SEP 23 SUN 2PM PAWPAW PROWL Take a 1.5-mile walk in the forest to search for Ohio s state native fruit. Apple Ridge Bulletin Board SEP 23 SUN 4PM FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike. Ages 18 and older Apple Ridge Bulletin Board SEP 23 SUN 7:45PM CUB SCOUT DAY: BEARS FUR, FEATHERS & FERNS Bears will work on requirements toward the Fur, Feathers & Ferns achievement. OCT 13 & (2 SESSIONS) GO WILD KIDS CLUB: SCAVENGER HUNT Enjoy a nature scavenger hunt while you go off-trail in the ravines off-trail in the Natural Play Area. Ages 5-12 Natural Play Area OCT 17 WED 4:30PM 48 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 49

26 Sharon Woods programs Sharon Woods / Slate Run / Slate Run Farm programs CREATURE FEATURE: NIGHTTIME CRITTERS Take a 1-mile hike and learn about the park s nocturnal inhabitants. Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter OCT 20 SAT 7PM CREATURE FEATURE: TURKEYS Learn the difference between a wattle and a snood and take a short hike in search of wild turkeys. Spring Hollow Lodge NOV 4 SUN 2PM PRESCHOOLERS: PUPPET SHOW Wear your pajamas and join the Discovery Forest puppets as they learn about hibernation. Spring Hollow Lodge NOV 27 TUE 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM NOV 28 WED 9:30AM, 11AM OR 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older SEP 8 SAT & FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike. Ages 18 and older Apple Ridge Bulletin Board OCT 23 TUE 7PM LANTERN STROLL Candle lanterns will light the way on a 1-mile stroll through the woods. Schrock Lake Restrooms OCT 27 SAT 7PM PRESCHOOLERS PLUS: HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE Wear your costume and celebrate the holiday with games, crafts and other activities. Ages 3-8 Spring Hollow Lodge OCT 31 WED 10AM GO WILD KIDS CLUB: NIGHT HIKE Discover the wonders of the night on a 1-mile hike. Ages 5-12 Schrock Lake West Bulletin Board NOV 2 FRI 7PM NATURAL PLAY AREA ADVENTURE: FORT BUILDING Build your own forts with natural materials. Natural Play Area NOV 12 MON 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: FINDING YOUR WAY Learn about different types of maps and make your own as we go off-trail in the Natural Play Area. Ages 6-12 Apple Ridge Picnic Shelter NOV 15 THU 10AM OR 1:30PM I-SPY NATURE CHALLENGE Pick up a scavenger hunt, complete the challenge and earn a prize. Naturalist Office NOV 17 SAT 10AM HAPPY TAILS-N- Bring your canine companion for a 2-mile hike and a doggie treat. Apple Ridge Bulletin Board NOV 18 SUN 2PM FAST-PACED ADULT FULL MOON HIKE Take a fast-paced 2.8-mile hike. Ages 18 and older Apple Ridge Bulletin Board NOV 23 FRI 5:30PM SLATE RUN FAMILY HARVEST Enjoy a hayride and apple cider and pick Indian corn and pumpkins to take home. Buzzards Roost Picnic Area OCT 27 SAT 2PM SLATE RUN FARM SEPTEMBER ALL IN A DAY S WORK See a display about 19th-century occupations and the history of Labor Day. SEP 2-3 SUN-MON 1PM CATSUPS AND CONDIMENTS Discover other kinds of catsups besides tomato as the farm ladies make sauces and seasonings. SEP 8 SAT 1PM WAYS OF THE WORKSHOP Watch woodworking and blacksmithing and learn about tools used for common farm repairs. SEP 9 SUN 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS: NOW AND THEN Compare the way a modern family does their work and spends their leisure time with what was available to a farm family in the 1880s. SEP 13 THU 1PM DRYING FOOD Learn about drying as a way to preserve food in the 1880s and see how a 19th-century food evaporator works. SEP SAT-SUN 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older SEP 22 SAT & ROPES, KNOTS AND SPLICES Use the rope-making machine and jump to your favorite rhymes. SEP 22 SAT 1PM 50 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 51

27 Slate Run Farm programs Slate Run Farm / Three Creeks programs MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older OCT 6 SAT & APPLES: THEIR HISTORY AND USES Sample heirloom varieties, help press cider and stir apple butter cooking over an open fire. OCT 6 SAT 1PM FALL FROLIC Grab a blanket and bring your picnic dinner to enjoy on the lawn, and join in some activities and fun 1880s style. OCT 6 SAT 4PM FALL HARVEST Help with seasonal activities as the farm prepares for winter. OCT 7 SUN 1PM OCT 13 SAT 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older OCT 20 SAT & WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Compare recycling now with an 1880s family s necessary reuse of many farm and household items. OCT 20 SAT 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Learn about the history of agriculture and some of the skills needed to be successful operating an 1880s family farm as a business. OCT 24 WED 1PM FROM FLOCK TO TABLE Learn the basics about keeping small flocks of chickens and how to butcher poultry for the home table. OCT 27 SAT 10AM PUMPKINS AND CORN See a display of some of the many varieties of corn, pumpkins, squash and gourds available in the 1880s and their uses. OCT SAT-SUN 1PM METRO-FIVE 0: Level 1 WHAT DOES THE BARN SAY? Take a guided tour of the barn, learn about its history, see some of the machines and tools and meet the livestock. Ages 50 and older OCT 30 TUE 1PM DRAFT HORSE WORKSHOP Learn to groom, harness and ground drive these fine work animals. NOV 3 & A STITCH IN TIME Watch or help as we mend, do handwork and use the treadle sewing machine. NOV 4 SUN 1PM FIREWOOD WARMS YOU TWICE Try a two-man saw or shingle splitter while learning about varieties of wood. NOV SAT-SUN 1PM HOMESCHOOLERS AT THE FARM: THANKSGIVING ON THE FARM Learn some history about Thanksgiving foods and traditions. NOV 15 THU 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older NOV 17 & SWEET TREATS The ladies will prepare candy and other sweet treats for the upcoming holidays. NOV 17 SAT 1PM INDOOR AMUSEMENTS Try some indoor games and toys and challenge your mind with some 19th-century puzzles. NOV 23 FRI 1PM MORNING CHORES Join the farmer in feeding animals and other barnyard chores. Ages 5 and older NOV 24 & INDOOR AMUSEMENTS Try some indoor games and toys and challenge your mind with some 19th-century puzzles. NOV SAT-SUN 1PM THREE CREEKS SEPTEMBER STORIES BY THE CAMPFIRE Toast marshmallows over the fire and listen to stories from around the world. SEP 1 SAT 6:30PM BARKING AND BREAKFAST Enjoy breakfast snacks for you and your dog and take a 2.5-mile walk. SEP 2 SUN 9AM 52 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 53

28 Three Creeks programs Three Creeks programs CATCH A BUG Catch some six-legged critters with a net and learn to identify them. SEP 2 SUN 2PM FISHING AROUND THE POND FOR KIDS Cast a line and try to catch some fish. Poles and bait provided. Heron Pond SEP 3 MON 10AM PRESCHOOLERS: BUG ADVENTURE Learn about the world of insects and spiders through stories and activities. SEP 6 THU 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: EXPLORING INSECTS Catch and release six-legged critters and discover their vital role in the world. Ages 6-17 SEP 6 THU 1:30PM IN THE CREEK Take a short walk to the creek and search for critters with nets, buckets and hands. SEP 8 SAT 10AM METRO FIVE-0: Level 3 A FOREST WALK Enjoy a 2-mile walk through the creekside forest and discover how animals and plants prepare for winter. Ages 50 and older SEP 29 SAT 10AM LEAF COLLECTING 101 Start a leaf collection and learn how to identify and preserve leaves. SEP 30 SUN 1:30PM FALL PHOTO WALK Seek out detail and color as we photograph the creekside forest. OCT 13 SAT 9:30AM HOMESCHOOLERS: ALL ABOUT PREDATORS Learn about the lives of predatory animals great and small by participating in games and activities. Ages 6-17 OCT 16 TUE 1:30PM HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN NIGHT Join us for not-too-scary stories, s mores at the campfire and go trunk-or-treating for candy. Wear costumes. OCT 19 FRI 6PM LAST LEAVES TREE ID WALK Learn to identify trees from their leaves, bark and seeds on an easy 1-mile walk. OCT 21 SUN 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: IN THE FALL FOREST Walk through the forest and discover the ways plants and animals get ready for winter. Ages 6-17 OCT 23 TUE 1:30PM NO SCHOOL TODAY: NATURE HIKE Enjoy a fun-filled 1.5-mile hike through the forest and by the creek. OCT 24 WED 1:30PM CAMPFIRE BUILDING FOR KIDS Practice safely building a fire then toast marshmallows. Ages 6-17 OCT 28 SUN 1:30PM SCOUT DAY: WEBOLOS INTO THE WOODS Scouts will do activities that meet some of the requirements for the Webolos Into The Woods Adventure. NOV 4 SUN 2PM MAKE A HIKING STICK Get ready for your walking adventures by making your own hiking stick. NOV 10 SAT 1PM CAMPFIRE COOKING Get tips and tricks for making great campfire food and enjoy some samples. NOV 11 SUN 2PM HOMESCHOOLERS: WINTER WILDLIFE SCIENCE Discover how wild animals survive and even thrive in the cold. Ages 6-17 NOV 13 TUE 10AM WALK TO THE EAGLES NEST Learn about our national bird and take a 2-mile off-trail walk to visit their nesting site. NOV 17 SAT 10AM HOMESCHOOLERS: START A LEAF COLLECTION Learn how to identify, classify and preserve tree leaves. SEP 25 TUE 10AM OR 1PM PRESCHOOLERS: GROWLY CRITTERS Explore the world of bears, bobcats and other predators through games and activities. OCT 16 TUE 10AM FOR ADULTS: OFF-TRAIL ADVENTURE Explore rarely seen parts of the park on a 2.5-mile hike. NOV 3 SAT 10AM PRESCHOOLERS: HIBERNATION TIME Enjoy stories and activities while learning how wild animals stay warm in winter. NOV 20 TUE 10AM 54 To learn more, visit metroparks.net To learn more, visit metroparks.net 55

29 THANK YOU FRANKLIN COUNTY VOTERS OPENED 4 for your support of the 2009 Parks Levy Because of you, Metro Parks PARKS, WHICH INCREASED TOTAL PARKLAND TO OVER 27,000 ACRES WALNUT WOODS ROCKY FORK HOMESTEAD SCIOTO GROVE OPENED BATTELLE DARBY CREEK NATURE CENTER INCLUDES 53 foot living stream at Battelle Darby Creek s Nature center overlooking a herd of bison GREENWAY AND PARK Constructed 50 miles of trails and assumed maintenance and patrol of 90 miles of Greenway trails (Alum Creek, Blacklick, Camp Chase, Olentangy, Scioto), resulting in: 235 total miles of trails throughout 19 Metro Parks CONSERVATION & RESTORATION INITIATIVES 3,100 EDUCATION INITIATIVES CONDUCTED acres of wetlands, grassland and forest restoration Reintroduced federally endangered northern riffleshell and clubshell mussels, wood frogs, bison, 13-lined ground squirrels and hellbenders 3,600 programs yearly for youth and adults Carey Sherrill metroparks.net