April ‘15 Vol. 64 #4
Emerald Necklace
Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events
Toad-ally Amazing Amphibians
Summer Camps 6
Penguin Shores 13
Nature’s Song and Dance 3 • Bogs, Fens, Swamps and Marshes 5 • Party For the Planet 32
Contents Features 3 Nature’s Song and Dance 5 Bogs, Fens, Swamps and Marshes
Note from the Editor: On warm, wet rainy early April evenings trails and roadways in Brecksville, North Chagrin and Mill Stream Run reservations are covered with hundreds of salamanders trudging to their ancestral breeding ponds. April is the month of amphibians. Learn more about these amazing amphibians this month in your Cleveland Metroparks.
Columns 2 Inside the Emerald Necklace 4 Naturalist’s Almanac In Addition 6 8 11 12 15 17 30 31 32
Summer Camps Come Out and Play Cleveland Metroparks Golf Zoo News Programs by Date Programs by Location A Look Ahead Directory Party for the Planet
Cover photo: Toad trilling African black-footed penguins by Joy Viola Northeastern University Bugwood.org
All photos by Cleveland Metroparks photo archive unless otherwise noted.
Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:
Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Marjorie Thomas Editor
Eriepro ltd.
Graphic Design
Penton Marketing Services Printing
Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com.
Board of Park Commissioners Dan T. Moore Debra K. Berry President
Bruce G. Rinker Vice President
Vice President
Brian M. Zimmerman Chief Executive Officer
Inside the
Emerald Necklace
Come Out and FrogWatch!
As frozen wetlands thaw, a chorus of frog and toad songs erupts from the woodlands in our parks. Take a hike at dusk, and you can begin to distinguish the CHIRPing calls of spring peepers from the BELCHing of bullfrogs, and the banjo-like STRUMming of green frogs. It sounds like a strange fairytale symphony. Volunteers can become certified in a citizen science project called FrogWatch USA. In 2011, Cleveland Metroparks launched a FrogWatch USA Chapter, sponsored nationally by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Volunteer FrogWatchers survey designated sites throughout Cleveland Metroparks reservations and training for new volunteers has already begun. You too can learn to discern the vocalizations of about a dozen local frog and toad species and record basic data, such as temperature and wind speed. Anyone with an interest in nature is invited to participate – a love for science is a bonus! We encourage budding citizen scientists to track local fluctuations of frog and toad species. Only ten percent of Ohio’s pre-settlement wetlands remain intact, and amphibians are important sentinels for indicating the health of wetland habitats. Amphibians spend part of their lives in the water and part on land, so their health is closely tied to environmental changes. They are also beneficial by helping control nuisance mosquitoes and other insects. A single toad can consume up to 10,000 harmful insects during a three-month period. Currently, extinction threatens one in every three of the 6,000 amphibian species worldwide due to habitat alteration, climate change and wildlife disease. A common fungus called Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd or chytrid for short) causes skin abnormalities in frogs and other amphibians. It can develop into chytridiomycosis, which can be fatal to amphibians that depend on their permeable skin for respiration and salt exchange. Cleveland Metroparks has partnered with universities and organizations to study amphibian populations and to better understand the role that emerging wildlife diseases play in their urbanized habitats. By pairing broad-scale, ecological data from citizen science programs with targeted research, we are better equipped to make more informed conservation decisions in zoos and parks. Enjoy viewing some tropical frog species on exhibit at the Zoo’s RainForest. There are also cool local projects like Vernal Pool Restoration in several Cleveland Metroparks Reservations – with long-term goals of sustaining populations of more habitatsensitive local amphibians – like the wood frog. By participating in programs like FrogWatch USA or wetland planting events in your parks, you can support amphibian populations and their habitats right here in Ohio. To volunteer for FrogWatch USA visit clevelandmetroparks.com/wsc
Cleveland Metroparks does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age or disability in employment, services or access to programs or activities. Special assistance for Cleveland Metroparks programs or facilities is available by calling 216-635-3264 in advance.
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For an amphibian checklist visit clevelandmetroparks.com/Uploads/Public/ Documents/brochures/REPTILR_FINAL.pdf Gayle Albers, Watershed Stewardship Center Manager
FEATURE
Nature’s Song and Dance Northern leopard frog
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pril showers bring more than just May flowers! When it comes to amphibians, these early spring rains work as a seasonal alarm clock of sorts. Warm rainfall, combined with snowmelt from rising temperatures, thaw the ground and wake the frogs and salamanders throughout Cleveland Metroparks. The early rains of April are especially important because amphibians require moisture to breed. In woodland areas and wet meadows, rain and snowmelt aid in filling small pools, known as vernal pools, which provide predator-free breeding zones. Since vernal pools are separate from larger bodies of water, they tend to dry up in late summer. The pools are unable to sustain fish that would feast on amphibian eggs, but can support a wide variety of invertebrates for young tadpoles and salamander larvae to munch on. Wood frogs, spring peepers, spotted
and Jefferson salamanders are just few of the many amphibians that will travel by the masses to these pools under the cover of nightfall, to lay their eggs. If able to locate a busy vernal pool, with the right timing and a flash light, you may even have a chance to witness the spectacular mating “dances” that male spotted salamanders perform for the opportunity to fertilize a female’s egg mass. The later days of April will bring warmer rains that cause iced over marshes and ponds to thaw. As water temperatures rise, amphibians such as bullfrogs and green frogs climb from the muck to swim for the surface, where they can bask amongst turtles in the warm sun. Interestingly enough, one sure way to know if amphibians have come out of their hibernation is to venture to the forests, ponds, and marshes in the evenings, and listen. While salamanders
don’t have the ability to vocalize, male frogs do. With a wide variety of calls, frogs can produce a range of sounds by passing air over their vocal cords. You may hear sounds from a wood frog that remind you of the quack of a duck, green frogs sounding off like the un-tuned clunk of a banjo, or maybe the musical trill of an American toad. Some frogs, like the northern leopard frog, are even capable of producing a call while submerged in water! So, come this April, keep an eye on the weather forecast and an ear towards your favorite forest, pond, or marsh for the opportunity to spot some of the amazing amphibians that have made Cleveland Metroparks their home! Jake Kudrna, Naturalist North Chagrin Nature Center/ Look About Lodge
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NATURALIST’S ALMANAC
April April is like a fireworks presentation, starting slowly and building into a spectacular finale. Colors begin with early blues and purples of hepaticas and are quickly joined by whites and yellows of spring beauties and trout lilies returning long lost color to the forest floor. The first of several waves of neotropical migrant birds arrive. Some will only rest briefly as they continue on their journey farther north. These colorful gems bring their sweet songs to the developing spring. By the end of the month the color display will be at its peak and the trees will begin to shade the forest floor, shifting the wildflower’s energy to seed production. Birds
Reptiles
Riding nighttime southerly winds the first waves of warblers, sparrows and thrushes arrive on the north coast stopping in Ohio only to refuel before continuing their journey north. Some champions of migration can be found in April as shorebirds that have spent the winter as far south as Argentina, stop briefly at local mudflats to refuel on invertebrates before continuing to the tundra of Canada. Others like orioles, grosbeaks and tanagers return to local Ohio to begin their nesting cycle while common grackles, mourning doves and American woodcocks have already hatched and fledged one brood by the end of the month.
On warm sunny April days the first snakes can be seen out of hibernation. Often still covered in mud from underground hibernacula, northern water snakes warm themselves on wetland edges melting away the chill of a long hibernation. In meadows, garter snakes and northern brown snakes are becoming active, often seen warming themselves on pavement or the all purpose trails. This is a good time to see black rat snakes before the leaves conceal their presence amongst the tree branches.
Wildflowers The race is on! Ephemeral spring wildflowers bloom and are pollinated before the leaves of trees shade the forest floor. Early in the month hepatica highlights the grey brown of the forest floor with purple even before new leaves appear. Soon to bloom are the yellow of trout lilies among the whites of squirrel corn and Dutchman’s breeches. By the end of the month white and purple trillium come into bloom.
Garter snake 4 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Amphibians The early rush to vernal pools is now replaced with the slower and more prolonged breeding season of America toads, leopard and pickerel frogs. America toads are extreme egg layers where one female can lay up to 15,000 eggs in a long coiled string often extending over 30 feet in length. The snoring sounds of leopard and pickerel frogs can be difficult for some to distinguish but typically can be geographically separated with leopard frogs in the west and pickerel frogs in the east. Their tadpoles will develop quickly to emerge as froglets before the end of summer.
Your Gift of a Lifetime! By including Cleveland Metroparks Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund in your estate plans you can give the gift of a lifetime! Recent planned gifts to Cleveland Metroparks have helped to:
• Provide specialized education programs for all ages
• Support wildlife and hydrology research programs
• Rehabilitate natural surface trails • And so much more… Planned gifts may be designated to support all aspects of Cleveland Metroparks. To learn more about ways to make your “gift of a lifetime,” please contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com. Or, visit clevelandmetroparks.com and select ‘donate’ for more information, or to make a gift today!
FEATURE
Bogs, Fens, Swamps and Marshes (or How to tell if your wetland has ogres or not) Blue vervain in Fowles Marsh, Big Creek Reservation
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ou come to a glacial pothole on your hike through Cleveland Metroparks, a depression in the earth left by melting ice where water has now pooled. Dragonflies whiz by. Wading birds walk with splayed feet and probe the water hunting for insects. Green frogs issue alarm calls and dive headfirst into the water as you approach. You are walking toward a wetland teeming with life. Wetlands are areas where water saturates the soil for extended periods during the growing season. As the wetland water warms with the weather these nurseries of life, some of Ohio’s most productive ecosystems, spring alive. Insects thrive in the muddy waters and consume plants, fungi and other invertebrates. Many insects, like the swamp darner dragonfly, do not live in any other ecosystem. Redwinged blackbirds and wading birds build nests in dense vegetation. Beavers, muskrats, and mink visit and reside near these saturated wetland soils. Many species are drawn to distinct wetland habitats in northeast Ohio.
Bogs are generally found in cool northern climates and are characterized by soft, spongy ground consisting of partiallydecayed plant matter called peat. The dark acidic water in a bog is fed almost exclusively by precipitation. A trip to Kent Bog may allow you to spot insectivorous pitcher plants. Fens are fed mostly by groundwater and are less acidic than bogs. Tamarack and bayberry, a state endangered species, grow in fens but hardly anywhere else in the state of Ohio. Herrick Fen is a short drive and a natural area you will not soon forget. Marshes are characterized by nutrientrich soils and often display permanent, standing water delivered by both groundwater and precipitation. Lily pads, cattails, and other soft-stemmed vegetation rise from the marshes and this emergent vegetation is what makes a marsh clear to identify. Lake Abram in Big Creek Reservation is a fantastic marsh to spot birds from a raised boardwalk.
Swamps also show emergent vegetation that are dominated by woody plants. Imagine a place far, far away where you might find a creature like Shrek! Ok, so Shrek may not actually be in Ohio, but guests to a Cleveland Metroparks swamp can still find amphibians singing during spring showers. West Creek Reservation holds swamp pools below dry oak ridges where American toads trill for a mate and the regal forests at Bradley Woods are alive with wood frogs’ quacking chorus. Bogs, fens, swamps, and marshes offer separate soil and water conditions that each attract a huge variety of different plants and animals. An estimated 10-15% of Cleveland Metroparks total acreage is comprised of wetlands! Come out and enjoy the humming, trilling and quacking in the wetlands on your next walk through Cleveland Metroparks. Sign up for a bus trip to visit Ohio wetlands, see page 31 for details. Mark Warman Education Specialist, Watershed Stewardship Center 5
EMERALD NECKLACE SUMMER CAMPS all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Summer Nature Camps
Hike in the woods, wade in a creek, create a craft, paddle a kayak, sketch an animal, or play a game. This summer, spend time exploring the outdoor world around you at summer camps packed full of adventurous activities. Registration begins April 14 at 9 a.m. for Brecksville, Garfield Park, Hinckley, Lakefront and Mill Stream Run reservations and 9:30 a.m. for Ohio & Erie Canal, Rocky River, South Chagrin and West Creek reservations for Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township residents. Registration begins April 21 at 9:30 a.m. for all other participants. Register online ONLY at clevelandmetroparks.com. Credit card information required. If you need a scholarship, call the number listed for that specific camp. Camp fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Donations are welcome to support the Outdoor Experiences Summer Day Camp Scholarship Fund.
Registration begins April 14 at 9 a.m. Location
Phone Number
Camp Name
Age Group
Dates
Time
July 14 – 16 10 am – 2 pm Brecksville 440-526-1012 Camp Brecksville* 6 – 8 years Reservation Camp Brecksville* 6 – 8 years July 21 – 23 10 am – 2 pm Camp Brecksville* 6 – 8 years July 28 – 30 10 am – 2 pm Camp Brecksville 9 – 11 years August 4 – 7 10 am – 2 pm July 15 – 17 10 am – 2 pm Garfield Park 216-341-3152 Lil’ Gardeners Camp 6 – 7 years Reservation Little Homesteaders 7 – 9 years June 17 – 19 10 am – 2 pm Jr. Gardeners Camp 8 – 10 years July 15 – 17 10 am – 2 pm Fun with Food 10 – 13 years July 27 – 29 10 am – 2 pm 216-341-1704 Rockin’ Ledges Youth Day 10 – 15 years June 24 9 am – 3 pm June 16 – 18 10 am – 2 pm Hinckley 440-526-1012 Camp Hinckley* 10 – 13 years Reservation Camp Hinckley* 10 – 13 years June 23 – 25 10 am – 2 pm Camp Hinckley* 10 – 13 years June 30 – July 2 10 am – 2 pm 216-341-1704 Climb the Ledge Youth Day 10 – 15 years July 16 9 am – 3 pm Kayaking/SUP Youth Day 10 – 15 years July 23 9 am – 3 pm Kayaking/SUP Youth Day 10 – 15 years July 24 9 am – 3 pm Kayaking/SUP Youth Day 10 – 15 years August 11 9 am – 3 pm July 28 – 30 10 am – 3:30 pm Lakefront 216-206-1000 Lakefront Explorers I 6 – 8 years Reservation 216-341-1704 Youth Watersports Camp 10 – 15 years July 29 – 31 9 am – 3 pm July 1 – 3 10 am – 2 pm Mill Stream Run 440-526-1012 Primitive Skills Camp 8 – 12 years Reservation with adult
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Fee $48 $48 $48 $48 $45 $45 $45 $50 $50 $66 $66 $66 $50 $50 $50 $50 $66 $150 $100
EMERALD NECKLACE SUMMER CAMPS
Registration begins April 14 at 9:30 a.m. Location
Phone Number
Camp Name
Age Group
Dates
Time
Fee
Ohio & Erie Canal 216-206-1000 Let’s Explore CanalWay* 3 – 5 years June 9 – 11 10 am – noon $30 Reservation Let’s Explore CanalWay* 3 – 5 years August 11 – 13 10 am – noon $30 CanalWay Camper 6 – 8 years June 16 – 18 10 am – 3:30 pm $66 CanalWay Investigators 6 – 8 years August 4 – 6 10 am – 3:30 pm $66 Super Science Camp 7 – 9 years June 30 – July 2 10 am – 3:30 pm $66 American Girl Camp 9 – 12 years July 14 – 16 10 am – 2 pm $66 CanalWay Adventure Camp 9 – 12 years July 21 – 23 10 am – 3:30 pm $66 Hidden Valley Survival 10 – 13 years June 23 – 25 10 am – 3:30 pm $90 June 24 – 26 10 am – noon $30 Rocky River 440-734-6660 Small Wonders Camp 4 – 6 years Reservation Turtles, Snakes and Fun 5 – 7 years August 12 – 14 10 am – 2 pm $48 Eagle Explorers Camp 6 – 9 years July 7 – 9 10 am – 2 pm $66 Boot Camp 7 – 9 years July 21 – 24 10 am – 2 pm $88 Birds, Bugs and Worms 8 – 11 years June 22 – 23 & 26 10 am – 2 pm $48 Primitive Skills Camp 9 – 12 years June 17 – 19 10 am – 2 pm $66 Primitive Skills Camp 9 – 12 years July 14 – 16 10 am – 2 pm $66 BioCamp 13 – 17 years August 4 – 7 10 am – 3 pm $110 July 7 – 9 9:30 – 11 am $22 South Chagrin 440-473-3370 Look About Littles Camp 3 1/2 – 5 years (not entering K) Reservation Nature-Garten Chipmunk Camp Critter Camp Folklore Camp Outdoor Adventure Camp Nature-N-Art Camp Water Camp West Creek 440-887-1968 Feathers, Croaks and Songs
5 years (entering K)
August 4 – 6
9:30 – noon $37
5 – 6 years (completed K)
June 23 – 25
10 am – 2 pm
$48
6– 7 years (entering 2nd)
June 30 – July 2
10 am – 2 pm
$48
7 – 8 years (entering 3rd)
July 28 – 30
10 am – 2 pm
$48
8 – 9 years (entering 4th)
July 7 – 9
10 am – 3 pm
$60
9 – 12 years 9– 13 years (entering 5th – 7th)
July 21 – 23 July 14 – 16
10 am – 2 pm 10 am – 3 pm
$80 $80
9 – 12 years
June 9 – 12 10 am – 3 pm $80 Reservation Wet and Wavy Camp 11 – 16 years August 11 – 14 10 am – 3 pm $110 Biology Camp for Teens 12 – 17 years July 21 – 24 10 am – 3 pm $80 *This camp is offered on multiple dates or times. Campers may only register for one session of the camp. 7
COME OUT AND PLAY
Spring Bird Walks Watch the spring migrants return or travel through to their summer breeding grounds during the 82nd Annual Series of Spring Bird Walks. Co-sponsored by Cleveland Metroparks, The Audubon Society of Greater Cleveland, The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and other local park districts. Walks are led by experienced birders and held on Sundays, April 12 through May 17 at 7:30 a.m. at the following locations: Aurora Sanctuary - Audubon Society of Greater Cleveland Sanctuary, parking lot east of Page Rd. on E. Pioneer Trail, east of routes 306 and 43, Aurora 440-543-6399 Bedford Reservation - Hemlock Creek Picnic Area parking lot, off Button Rd., Bedford 330-715-6300 Big Creek Reservation - Lake Isaac, Big Creek Parkway, Middleburg Heights 440-891-1710 Brecksville Reservation - Parking area at Station Rd. Bridge Trailhead, off Riverview Rd. south of route 82, Brecksville 330-467-3664 Gates Mills - 440-338-4923 Geauga Park District - Various locations, Geauga County 440-286-9516 Hinckley Reservation - Bridge at the south end of Hinckley Lake, off State Rd., Hinckley 330-625-5503 Hiram - James H. Barrow Field Station (Hiram College) on Wheeler Road 330-527-2141 8 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Holden Arboretum - main parking lot off Sperry Rd., Kirtland 440-946-4400 Huntington Reservation - Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28727 Wolf Rd., Bay Village 440-471-8357 Lake Metroparks - Lake Erie Bluffs, 2901 Clark Rd., Perry Township 440-256-1404 ext. 2112 Mentor Marsh - parking area on Headlands Rd., Mentor 440-257-0777 North Chagrin Reservation - Sunset Pond, off Buttermilk Falls Parkway, Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 Novak Sanctuary - Audubon Society of Greater Cleveland Sanctuary, parking lot north of Rt. 82 on Aurora Town Line Rd., Aurora 440-543-6399 Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation - Visitor Center parking lot – Whittlesey Way off E. 49th St. south of Grant Ave, Cuyahoga Hts. 216-206-1000 Rocky River Reservation - Rocky River Nature Center parking lot, 24000 Valley Parkway, ¼ mile north of Cedar Point Rd. in North Olmsted 440-924-0188 Shaker Lakes - The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes 2600 South Park Blvd., Shaker Hts. 216-321-5935 South Chagrin Reservation - Jackson Road parking lot, off Chagrin River Road (between Miles Rd. and Chagrin Blvd.), Moreland Hills 440-473-3370
Don’t miss the migration!
COME OUT AND PLAY
Lakefront Reservation
April Amphibian Programs Learn how amazing amphibians play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Monitor Amphibian Populations Tuesday, April 14 • 8 – 9:30 p.m. Brookside Valley Event Site • Brookside Reservation Terrain: easy, 1 mile 440-887-1968 Tag along with a naturalist and monitor local amphibians using the FrogWatch protocol, a citizen science program. Learn more about local amphibians and their wetland habitats.
Amphibian Hike Friday, April 17 • 8 – 9 p.m. Wilson Mills parking lot • North Chagrin Reservation Terrain: hill, muddy, 1 – 1.5 miles Trek to the wetlands where we’ll look for breeding red-spotted newts, salamanders and spring peepers! If conditions are right, we could see and hear seven or more different amphibian species.
Salamander Survey Monday, April 27 • 3 – 4 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation Terrain: mostly flat, 1 mile Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield for the monthly salamander survey in the Rocky River Valley. We’ll check floodplains and deep woods along the trails near the nature center. Spotted salamander 9
Annual Morning With Mom Sunday, May 10 • 10 a.m. – noon Rocky River Nature Center Treat your mom (or that special woman) to a peaceful escape. Enjoy a bagel bar, fruit and beverages while surrounded by nature and soothing music. Everyone receives a 15% discount on Mother’s Day. The special lady-of-the-day receives a coupon for 25% off one item for a future visit. We’ll also take a photo of your family for mom and have it ready to take home as a sweet memory of Mother’s Day. Registration and a $3 fee required by May 8.
May is all about mothers. We’re featuring our locallymade cashmere gift sets for $8 (normally $10). The set includes all natural soap and lotion made from the finest essential oils and butters. An added bonus - the soap wrapper can be planted and will grow beautiful spring flowers. Pick up this great item in a variety of scents for all the lovely ladies in your life. Offer valid 4/1/15 – 4/30/15 at all Nature Shops while supplies last.
LOCATIONS/HOURS Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store 1 West Drive Hinckley Township 330-278-2160
Daily: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511
Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 4:45 p.m.
Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 Monday – Saturday:
10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 4:45 p.m.
clevelandmetroparks.com
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Watershed Stewardship Center Parma 440-253-2170 Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 4 p.m.
CLEVELAND METROPARKS GOLF
Pro Tip of the Month Chipping – Trajectory Do you struggle with consistently getting the ball airborne? Does the ball usually run low across the green or do you hit the ground a few inches behind the ball before making contact, which makes the ball move only a couple feet. If you think that scooping the ball into the air is the way to go, then this new set-up should improve your short game. In order to make the ball airborne, you must hit the ball as the club head is moving in a downward motion. In order to make the downward motion with ease, you have to first start with proper set-up by putting 80% or more of your weight on your target foot (the foot closer to the hole). By starting with the weight on the target foot and maintaining that position throughout the swing, your club will naturally move in a downward position without effort. Jamie Taylor, LGPA Golf Professional, Seneca Golf Course
Spring Tournaments Two Player Scramble – Sunday, May 3 Manakiki Golf Course – $140/team Two Player Scramble/Better Ball – Saturday, May 16 Big Met Golf Course $120/team These two events kick-off the season-long Cleveland Metroparks Player of the Year Series. Players finishing in the top ten of each event will earn points. Register online at clevelandmetroparks.com.
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 18 holes, par 71 and driving range Brecksville Reservation 9445 Brecksville Road, Brecksville 440-526-4285 Manakiki Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 North Chagrin Reservation 35501 Eddy Road, Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Big Met Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 Rocky River Reservation 4811 Valley Parkway, Fairview Park 440-331-1070
Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18 holes, par 71, 9 holes par 3 course and driving range Bedford Reservation 18753 Egbert Road, Bedford 440-232-7184 Seneca Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 18 holes, par 71 Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway, Broadview Heights 440-526-0043
A Course For Every Golfer
Want Free Golf? Join Golf Bonus Rounds! Golf Bonus Rounds members receive 9 holes of golf free, good at any Cleveland Metroparks course (up to $25 value), a $5 coupon off any purchase of in-stock merchandise and a 10% discount on all golf shop merchandise at any Cleveland Metroparks pro shop. For every $100 you spend on greens fees at Cleveland Metroparks golf courses, you earn $20 to be used on a future visit greens fees. The more you play the more you save!
Want to improve your game? Register for the Academy of Golf Adult Beginners Class. This handson series covers the basics of the full swing, chipping and putting. Basic golf terms, rules and etiquette are reviewed. Six week sessions will include a short on-course session. Loaner clubs are available. Beginners +1 sessions include a private lesson. For more information and to register visit clevelandmetroparks.com/golf.
Little Met Golf Course 9 holes, par 34 Rocky River Reservation 18599 Old Lorain Road, Cleveland 216-941-9672 Mastick Woods Golf Course 9 holes, par 31 Rocky River Reservation 19900 Puritas Road, Cleveland 216-267-5626 Washington Golf Course 9 holes, par 29 and driving range Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Boulevard, Village of Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864 11
ZOO NEWS all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Discover Amphibians at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Red-eyed tree frog
The RainForest at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a great place to learn about amphibians such as frogs and toads and how these animals can act as a bellwether for the health of the environment. There are 12 different frog and toad species to discover in The RainForest exhibit from the colorful red-eyed tree frog and blue poison-dart frog to the giant marine toad and the critically endangered Puerto Rican crested toad. The Zoo actively contributes to the Puerto Rican crested toad Species Survival Plan, managed by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and has sent thousands of tadpoles to Puerto Rico to be released into the wild over the last several years. The Puerto Rican crested toad Species Survival Plan has been very successful and field researchers in Puerto Rico have observed toads with transponders that were released into the wild returning to the protected ponds to reproduce. Once the Zoo’s tadpoles reach U.S. Fish and Wildlife – Caribbean 12 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Refuge officials in San Juan, they are transported to one of three possible release sites on the southern coast of the island. In order to successfully breed crested toads in a zoo environment, animal keepers need to mimic the conditions under which they would naturally breed in the wild. This involves cooling the toads down to 66 degrees and then placing them in a rain chamber tank that simulates the rainy season in the toads’ native Puerto Rico. A sound recording of the male crested toad’s mating call adds to the simulated environment. The Puerto Rican crested toad is the only toad native to the island. Its numbers are threatened by habitat loss and competition from non-native introduced species such as the cane toad. There’s a lot more to discover about these awesome amphibians and the rest of the frogs and toads in The RainForest. Go to clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo to learn more, or better yet, visit Cleveland Metroparks Zoo today!
ZOO NEWS
African black-footed penguin by Joy Viola Northeastern University Bugwood.org
New Penguin Shores Exhibit Opens April 3 Get ready to welcome penguins back to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo! Penguin Shores, a special seasonal exhibit, is bringing six of the popular black and white birds back to Cleveland for a limited time. A grand opening for the seasonal exhibit is planned for April 3 in the Zoo’s Northern Trek area. “This is the first time penguins will be seen at our Zoo since 2002,” said Executive Zoo Director Dr. Chris Kuhar. “And with 2015 being the celebration of the ‘Year of Clean Water,’ the timing couldn’t be better for us to mount this special exhibit. The penguins will serve as ambassadors for conservation as part of the Zoo’s contribution to the Cleveland Water Alliance and Sustainable Cleveland’s Year of Clean Water.” The penguin exhibit, designed by Illinois-based Animal Interaction Design Group, in partnership with Cleveland Metroparks Exhibits team, is slated to run through midSeptember. The special exhibit houses six African black-footed penguins and will be free with regular Zoo admission. It features naturalistic rock work with nest boxes, ledges and irregular surfaces, and a pool for swimming. Guests will be able to learn
about penguins in the wild and conservation efforts under way to help them. African black-footed penguins are native to the rocky coastline and islands of South Africa. They are well-adapted to swimming and fishing in the cold water off the South African coast. They eat anchovies, sardines and other small fish species. They are classified as “endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, mainly due to the commercial overfishing of their primary prey species, and environmental damage from the oil industry. The Penguin Shores exhibit will outline how pollution from plastics and destruction of habitat are affecting penguin species in the wild. The Zoo last exhibited penguins in a mixed-species exhibit at the former Birds of the World building which included Humboldt, macaroni and king penguins. The king penguins were the last species to leave the Zoo in 2002.
For the most up-to-date Zoo information: Clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo 216-661-6500 13
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Spring Break Camp: Seeds & Salamanders!
Monday, April 6 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Fee: $55 Delve into the world of amphibians and see if we can find any of these slippery creatures in Huntington Reservation. Explore seeds and bulbs and make some jewelry that will sprout before the day is through. For children in grades 1 – 4.
Family Astronomy Day: Constellations
Saturday, April 25 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Fee: $4 ages 2+ Learn how to find the brightest constellations in your own backyard, visit the planetarium, design your own star arrangement and even make a constellation you can eat. For all ages.
Animals Alive
Saturdays and Sundays Noon – 12:30 p.m. Fee: $3 Join us in the Log Cabin for fun and information as we meet different animals and explore different topics each week. For all ages.
Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs Schedule is subject to some variability. Please call us at 440-871-2900 to confirm programming. Monday, Thursday and Friday 11:30 a.m. Twinkle Tots Noon Stellar Stars 2 p.m. You-niverse 4 p.m. Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast
Tuesday and Wednesday 11:30 a.m. Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast 2 p.m. You-niverse 4 p.m. Space Aliens
Twinkle Tots
Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. Twinkle Tots 11:30 a.m. Stellar Stars 12:30 p.m. Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast 1:30 p.m. You-niverse 2:30 p.m. You-niverse 3:30 p.m. Space Aliens
Full Dome Feature Show: Space Aliens: Looking for Life in the Universe
Recommended for children ages 0 – 3. Fee: $2 (including infants)
Join our alien “experts”, Hopeful and Skeptical, as they try to convince each other whether or not life exists beyond the Earth. This full dome “movie” is 30 minutes long. Recommended for preteens through adults. Fee: $5
Stellar Stars
Recommended for ages 3 – 7. Fee: $3
The You-niverse
SkyQuest: What’s so Super about a Supernova?
For families with children of all ages. Fee: $3
Full Dome Children’s Feature Show: Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast Travel through the Solar System with Rusty Rocket and his friends as they learn everything they need to know to become space rockets. This full dome “movie” is 32 minutes long. Recommended for children ages 4 – 12. Fee: $5
April 2, 4, 9, 16, 18, 23 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. Discover what triggers the energetic explosions known as supernovae and how they hold the key to uncovering the mysteries about the nature of the cosmos. Program is approximately 45 minutes. Recommended for pre-teens through adults. Fee: $5
Please note: Tickets for all planetarium shows available at the Information Desk 30 minutes before the program begins. Tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis and must be purchased more than 5 minutes prior to show time. For safety reasons, late admittance to planetarium programs is not permitted. No food or drink is permitted in the renovated Schuele Planetarium.
Visit www.lensc.org for complete information
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
Wildlife Rehabilitation • Nature & Science Education • Planetarium 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, OH 44140 • 440-871-2900 • www.lensc.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is an independent nonprofit affiliate of Cleveland Metroparks and receives public support with local tax dollars from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture, to preserve and enrich our region’s cultural heritage. 14 Emerald Necklace April 2015
APRIL PROGRAMS BY DATE April 1 • Wednesday
April 12 • Sunday
April 22 • Wednesday
CWC CWC CWC GPC NCNC RRNC ZOO
Off Site BeR BNC BR CWC CWC LR LAL RRNC RRNC RRNC WSC
LR
• • • • • • •
Hunt of the Month: Bikes Christopher Roth Photography CanalWay Storytime at Night Spring into Step Nature Fools Gallery Wall: Southwest Camera Club Preschool Safari – Eggs Everywhere
April 2 • Thursday CWC CWC GPC SCR WSC ZOO
• Cleveland Astronomical Society – Water on the Moon • Woodcock Watch • Planting Container Herb Gardens • Spring Hike • The Life and Art of Charley Harper • Career Day
April 3 • Friday BR NCNC WSC
• Emerald Necklace Hikers • Drop-By Discovery • School’s Out Drop-by: Pysanky Eggs
April 4 • Saturday BeR BCR GPC LR LR LAL NCR NCNC
• • • • • • • •
Extreme Hiking Emerald Necklace Art Club: Monthly Meeting Hike to the Falls Beach Egg Hunt Edgewater Park History Hike Cleveland Naturalist Science Club Dog Hike Tour of Wildflowers Kick-Off
April 6 • Monday NCNC RRNC ZOO
• North Chagrin Nature Photography Club • Southwest Camera Club • Spring Break Camp
April 7 • Tuesday CWC HiR NCR RRNC RRNC WSC
• • • • • •
CanalWay Storytime Hiking for the Young at Heart Buckeye Trail Section Hike Trout Unlimited Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society Birds, Bees and More Drop-by
April 8 • Wednesday NCNC RRNC WSC WSC
• • • •
Chagrin River Homeschool Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association Beginner’s Birding It’s All About The Lake
April 9 • Thursday Off Site BCR BWR GPC NCR RRNC RRNC SCR ZOO
• • • • • • • • •
Youth Kayak Fun Edible Wetland Plants Bird Walk Rain Barrel Workshop Little Explorers Story and Stroll Steelhead Basics Backpacking Basics Spring Hike Preschool Safari – Eggs Everywhere
April 10 • Friday WSC ZOO
• For Adults Only: Animal Behavior I • Career Day
April 11 • Saturday BR CWC CWC GPC LAL LAL NCR RRR SCR WCR ZOO
• • • • • • • • • • •
Emerald Necklace Hikers Family Bike Ride in the Park Overlook Hike Bird Song by Habitat Good Ol’ Fashioned Nature Hike Second Saturday Storytelling High Mileage Trek - Spring Breakfast in the Park Nature Journaling Headwater Hike For Adults Only: Animal Behavior II
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Kayaking 1: Introduction to Kayaking Hemlock Creek Hike Get Out… Cherry Blossom Stroll Spring Bird Walks Trains – Cars Hawkwatch Spring Watercolor Workshop River Poets A Changing Season Hike River Readers Girl Scout Program: Wonders of Water
April 13 • Monday AR LAL RRNC RRNC RRNC
• • • • •
Senior Stroll at Acacia Look About Littles Knitting in Nature Little Explorers: Robins Cuyahoga Astronomical Association
April 14 • Tuesday BR ZOO ZOO
• Monitor Amphibian Populations • Homeschool Program – All About Winter • Preschool Safari – Fascinating Fish
April 15 • Wednesday Off Site BrR CWC ECR GPC NCR WSC
• • • • •
Ohio Boating Education Course Chippewa Creek Fish Sampling Young Explorers Wildflowers on Wednesday Homeschool Homesteaders - Raising Chickens • Little Explorers Story and Stroll • NestWatch Training
April 16 • Thursday Off Site GPC HiR SCR
• • • •
Kayaking 1: Introduction to Kayaking Jazz in the Park Wildflower Walk Spring Hike
April 17 • Friday CWC MSRR NCR
• Family Movie Night • Woodcock Watch • Amphibian Hike
April 18 • Saturday BeR CWC GPR GPC HiR LR LAL NCR NCR RRNC
• Woodlands of Bedford: Bedford Glens • Acoustic Players Circle • Mill Creek Trail History Hike • Plant Potatoes • Woodland Wildflowers • UnNatural Trail • Nature Writing • Land Navigation 2 • Junior Naturalist • BSA Merit Badge: Fish and Wildlife Management
• Earth Day Walk
April 23 • Thursday Off Site BNC CWC GPC HiR RRNC SCR
• • • • • • •
Scranton Road Peninsula Hop Animal Crackers Stroller School Food Film: PolyCultures Wildflower Walk Wildflower Walk Spring Hike
April 24 • Friday HiR NCNC WSC
• Woodcock Watch • Family Movie Night • Wildflower Walk
April 25 • Saturday BeR BCR BNC CWC ECR GPC RRNC SCR WSC ZOO
• • • • • • • • • •
Headwaters Hike Beginner’s Birding Woodland Wildflowers Family Bike Ride Naturalist at Wildwood Spring Cleaning Your Garden Spring Migration Primer Nuthatch Avoiders Macroinvertebrate Mayhem Party For the Planet
April 26 • Sunday AR BR CWC CWC GPC HiR LAL NCR SCR WCR
• • • • • • • • • •
Dog Hike Cherry Blossom Stroll Spring Bird Walks Egg-speriments Fun with Food! Wildflowers Galore Seed Starter Workshop Camp Cooking Wildflower Wander The Rejuvenary River Circus Performance
April 27 • Monday RRNC RRNC
• Salamander Survey • Discovering Nature: Wildflowers
April 29 • Wednesday BNC CWC
• Animal Crackers • Preschool: Seeds
April 30 • Thursday Off Site CWC GPC GPC HiR SCR ZOO
• • • • • • •
Urban Explorations: Flats Bridges Beginner Backpacking Trip Beneficial Bugs Benefits of Buying Local Wildflower Walk Spring Hike Preschool Safari – What’s for Dinner
April 19 • Sunday Off Site BR CWC CWC HiR LR LR LAL RRNC WSC
• • • • • • • • • •
Kayaking 2: Supplemental Skills Cherry Blossom Stroll Spring Bird Walks April Flower Stroll Breaksfast in the Park Urban Birding Challenge Lakefront Dog Walk In Search of the Spring Evening School of the Wilds West: Field Guides Field Ecology: Streams
April 20 • Monday NCNC RRNC
• North Chagrin Nature Photography Club • Southwest Camera Club
April 21 • Tuesday BNC RRNC RRNC ZOO
• • • •
Homeschooling in Nature Bicycle Maintenance 1 Nature Baby Preschool Safari – Monkey Business
(AR) Acacia Reservation (BeR) Bedford Reservation (BCR) Big Creek Reservation (BWR) Bradley Woods Reservation (BrR) Brecksville Reservation (BNC) Brecksville Nature Center (BR) Brookside Reservation (CWC) CanalWay Center (ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation (GPC) Garfield Park Center (GPR) Garfield Park Reservation (HiR) Hinckley Reservation (HuR) Huntington Reservation (LR) Lakefront Reservation (LAL) Look About Lodge (MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation (NCR) North Chagrin Reservation (NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center (OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation (RRR) Rocky River Reservation (RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center (SCR) South Chagrin Reservation (WR) Washington Reservation (WSC) Watershed Stewardship Center (WCR) West Creek Reservation
15
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION Cleveland Metroparks Maps Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 18 reservations.
Off Site Programs 9 • Thursday Youth Kayak Fun
Learn to kayak in the warmth of the pool. Learn basic strokes and wet exits with fun kayaking games. 6 – 8 p.m. Baldwin Wallace, Lou Higgins Ages: 8 – 13 years Fee: $20 (includes boat & equipment) Register online at clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
12 • Sunday Kayaking 1: Introduction to Kayaking
Classroom and on-the-water practice introduces you to basic paddling strokes and equipment. Be prepared to get wet. 9 a.m. – noon Seven Hills Community Recreation Center Ages: 14 years & over with adult Fee: $45 (includes boat & equipment) Register online at clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
16 • Thursday Kayaking 1: Introduction to Kayaking (see 4/12 for details)
6 – 9 p.m. Baldwin Wallace, Lou Higgins
19 • Sunday Kayaking 2: Supplemental Skills
Learn deep water re-entry rescue techniques and advanced paddling strokes. Prerequisite: Kayaking 1. 9 a.m. –noon Seven Hills Community Recreation Center Ages: 14 years & over with adult Fee: $40 (includes boat & equipment) Register online at clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
23 • Thursday Scranton Road Peninsula Hop
Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak walks, talks, and bops about this oasis created under Hope (Memorial) Bridge. Enjoy a “miled” hike with a modicum of history about many things. 2 – 4 p.m. Scranton Road Peninsula Terrain: paved, flat, 1.5 miles Register by phone or online beginning April 1 216-206-1000
30 • Thursday Urban Explorations: Flats Bridges
Spend an enjoyable morning hiking in the Flats with Cultural History Interpreter Doug Kusak. We’ll bridge the gap between local history and nature making a comeback.
1 – 3 p.m. Ages: adults, 8 years & over with adult Fee: $5 Terrain: city streets, 2 miles Register by phone or online beginning April 1 216-206-1000
Acacia Reservation 13 • Monday Senior Stroll at Acacia
Greet spring with a leisurely walk through Acacia Reservation. All abilities are welcome. 10 – 11 a.m. Cedar Road parking lot Terrain: paved, 1.5 miles 440-473-3370
Cleveland Metroparks Reservations
15 • Wednesday Ohio Boating Education Course
Learn safe boating fundamentals and laws that apply to paddling, sailing, and powerboating. Successful completion of the course meets the mandatory education requirement for people born after January 1, 1982 to operate a watercraft of ten horsepower or greater. Also meets April 22 & 29. 6 – 9 p.m. Valley Forge High School Ages: 13 years & over with adult Fee: $25 (adults), $15 (ages 13 – 17) Register online at clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com 16 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Group Programming For information on group programs, call any Cleveland Metroparks nature or visitor center.
Outdoor Adventures Outdoor Recreation is yearround. For details about trips, skill classes or other recreational activities, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/or.
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Squirrel corn
26 • Sunday
12 • Sunday
Dog Hike
Hemlock Creek Hike
Bring your best furry friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. All dogs must be leashed. 2 – 3:30 p.m. Cedar Road parking lot Terrain: moderate, paved, 3.5 – 4 miles 440-473-3370
See how many spring wildflowers you can tally as we hike along Hemlock Creek. Our trip will also take us up above the creek for an eagle’s eye view of beautiful Bedford Reservation. Hiking poles recommended. 2 – 5 p.m. Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Terrain: difficult, wet, hills, 4 miles 216-341-3152
Bedford Reservation 4 • Saturday Extreme Hiking
Over the hills and through the woods…join Naturalist Pam Taylor for a peek at early spring wildflowers. Prepare for wet trails. NOTE: There are no restrooms at this parking lot. 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Bridal Veil Falls parking lot Terrain: hills, 7 – 9 miles 440-526-1012
18 • Saturday Woodlands of Bedford: Bedford Glens
Enjoy hiking with Naturalist Fred Losi beneath towering sandstone cliffs that rise above the boulderstrewn rapids of Tinker’s Creek. We’ll travel on historic trails, immersing ourselves in the wilderness of Bedford Glens as we
keep an eye out for spring wildflowers. 10 a.m. – noon Willis Picnic Area Terrain: moderate, some off-trail, 2 miles 216-341-3152
25 • Saturday Headwaters Hike
Learn how small, sometimes temporary and often unnamed streams are actually very valuable to the rivers they contribute to. Enjoy the spring air and see a few of Bedford Reservation’s headwaters streams. 2 – 4 p.m. Alexander Bike Lot Terrain: moderate, steep hills, 3 miles 216-341-3152
Big Creek Reservation 4 • Saturday Emerald Necklace Art Club: Monthly Meeting
Draw and paint with us! Members of the Emerald Necklace Art Club are invited to bring their favorite medium as we appreciate the signs of the season. Not a member? Sign up at clevelandmetroparks.com/enartclub 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Ages: adult
9 • Thursday Edible Wetland Plants
Marshes provide food and shelter for wildlife. Enjoy a hike to learn about the edible plants that grow in wetlands habitats. We’ll discuss what’s present, what’s not, and why. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Eastland Road Trailhead Terrain: paved, boardwalk, 2 miles 440-887-1968 17
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Big Creek Reservation continued
25 • Saturday Beginner’s Birding
Naturalist Mark Warman is bringing all the binoculars he can find to provide you with a chance to score a sweet species checklist. This walk will introduce green birders to a lesser-observed parkway trail. Bring your own binoculars, limited supply available for loan. 9:30 – 11 a.m. Memphis Picnic Area Terrain: on- and off-trail, 1 mile 440-887-1968
Brecksville Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville 440-526-1012
12 • Sunday Get Out…
…and get active. Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis on the trails. Over the next several months, we’ll add a little more distance to this hiking series. 2 – 4 p.m. Ages: adults Terrain: hills, moderate, 2.5 miles
21 • Tuesday
Bradley Woods Reservation 9 • Thursday Bird Walk
As the season warms up, join Naturalist Marty Calabrese to welcome back early-return migrants. We’ll survey Bunns Lake, created in 1986 to provide a sanctuary for waterfowl. Checklists provided. 9 – 10:30 a.m. Bunns Lake Trailhead Terrain: flat, on-trail, 1 mile 440-734-6660
Brecksville Reservation 15 • Wednesday Chippewa Creek Fish Sampling
Explore fish diversity in Chippewa Creek with Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec. Fish are often difficult to observe. We’ll start collecting live fish using electrofishing (stunning the fish temporarily), then look at them up-close in small aquariums as we discuss each species then release the fish back to the creek. Dress to get wet. 2 – 4 p.m. Plateau Picnic Area Terrain: wet, rocky, slippery Register by phone beginning April 1 440-526-1012
Homeschooling in Nature
Calling all homeschoolers for this monthly program designed for you! Spring is an amazing time to explore nature. We’ll discover plant life cycles through indoor and outdoor discovery and hands-on activities. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Ages: grades K – 2 and 3 – 6 Register by phone beginning April 1
23 • Thursday Animal Crackers
Join Miss Jenny for a fun time celebrating Earth Day with activities, a hike, and a craft. 10 – 11:15 a.m. Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult, no siblings Register by phone beginning April 1
25 • Saturday Woodland Wildflowers
The woods are springing to life with the return of wildflowers. Take a stroll through the awaking forest to see the stunning beauty and hear the stories these emerging plants have to tell. 2 – 3:30 p.m. Ages: adults Terrain: steps, 1 mile
29 • Wednesday Animal Crackers (see 4/23 for details)
10 – 11:15 a.m. or 1 – 2:15 p.m. 18 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Your Parks, Your Stories 440-786-8530 fcb@clevelandmetroparks.com We have archived more than 100 individual stories and photos from people just like you. Now it’s your turn! We want our Centennial Celebration in 2017 to include Your Stories that took place in Your Parks. What reservation is your favorite? Why? What recreational activities did/do you enjoy in Cleveland Metroparks? Were you proposed to, or married, in Cleveland Metroparks? Do you remember the old Trailside Museums? Did you have a relative who worked in the CCC or WPA? Do you have family photos of places in Cleveland Metroparks that date back to our beginning in 1919 or other decades of our existence? If so, you are the perfect candidate to share your stories with us. Set up an interview with the oral history crew at the Cleveland Metroparks reservation nearest you. We would love to collect your stories and scan your photos that reveal your family ties to this soon-to-be 100-year-old park system. Or write down your stories, then share them at: http://www. clevelandmetroparks.com/Main/Your-Parks-Your-Stories. aspx.
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Brookside Reservation April 3 Emerald Necklace Hikers
Don’t feel comfortable navigating the trails on your own? Join this monthly hike to explore the Emerald Necklace, get some exercise and enjoy each other’s company. The timing could be right to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms and other spring wildflowers. 10 a.m. – noon Brookside Valley Event Site Ages: adults Terrain: steep hill, 2 – 3 miles 440-526-1012
11 • Saturday Emerald Necklace Hikers (see 4/3 for details)
12 • Sunday Cherry Blossom Stroll
Stroll down “blossom lane” to see Japanese cherry trees blooming. Come for one or all three walks in this series on April 12, 19 and 26. Learn the cultural history of the trees as we track their beauty from bud to bloom through Project Budburst. 10 – 11 a.m. Brookside Valley Event Site Terrain: easy, 1 mile 440-887-1968
Open Mon. – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday Noon – 5 p.m. 4524 E. 49th St. Cuyahoga Hts. 216-206-1000 Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation
1 • Wednesday Hunt of the Month: Bikes
The weather is getting warmer and winter is finally gone. Stop by to do the hidden bikes activity. Don’t forget to bring your own bike for a ride on the Towpath. Through April 30. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon. – Sat. Noon – 5 p.m. Sun. Christopher Roth Photography
Stop in to see the breathtaking imagery of Cleveland’s lakefront captured by Christopher Roth. Through April 30. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon. – Sat. Noon – 5 p.m. Sun. CanalWay Storytime at Night
With Earth Day at the end of the month, April is a time to learn about the 3 R’s. We’ll spend the evening reading, singing and playing games related to reduce, reuse and recycle. 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. Ages: families
2 • Thursday
14 • Tuesday Monitor Amphibian Populations
(see page 9 for details)
19 • Sunday Cherry Blossom Stroll (See 4/12 for details)
26 • Sunday Cherry Blossom Stroll (See 4/12 for details)
Brecksville Reservation
CanalWay Center
Cleveland Astronomical Society Water on the Moon
The moon is not only our nearest neighbor but is similar enough to Earth to be a virtual twin. James Orman, Professor at Case Western Reserve University will discuss where the water on the moon came from and what its presence may mean for the moon’s origin and evolution. 6:30 – 7 p.m. Meeting 7 – 8:30 p.m. Speaker
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com 19
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
CanalWay Center continued
Woodcock Watch
Each spring the male woodcock returns to northern Ohio and begins a nightly performance of calls and aerial dances to attract a mate. We’ll search for this common but elusive bird and watch his “skydance.” Wear hiking footwear and dress for the weather. 7:45 – 8:30 p.m. Register online beginning March 20
7 • Tuesday CanalWay Storytime
(see 4/1 for details) 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Ages: 6 years & under with adult
Trains – Cars
Rail cars come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Did you ever wonder what those trains are hauling? Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak will take a novice’s approach to help you connect the train cars with their designed use. 1 – 2 p.m.
15 • Wednesday Young Explorers
Explore the secret lives of snails and slugs. We’ll follow the slime trail to learn about these tiny mollusks through a variety of activities. 10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: easy, 0.5 – 1 mile Registration by phone or online beginning March 20
17 • Friday
11 • Saturday Family Bike Ride in the Park
Easy-going Doug Kusak leads an easy-going bike ride from CanalWay Center to Harvard Road and back. It’s an exercise in exercise, excitement, and explanations as we wander where the water winds in Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation. Helmet required. 10 a.m. – noon Ages: families Terrain: paved, 2 hills, 6 miles Register by phone or online beginning April 1 Overlook Hike
Join us as we hike along the canal to the Cuyahoga River overlook and back to CanalWay Center. We’ll look for evidence of our local wildlife and early spring wildflowers throughout our journey. 2 – 4 p.m. Terrain: all purpose trail, 2 hills, 2.5 miles
12 • Sunday Spring Bird Walks
We’ll walk at a leisurely pace stopping to identify any birds we see or hear. Experienced and novice birders welcome. Part of the Audubon Spring Bird Walk series. 7:30 – 10:30 a.m. Terrain: all purpose trail, hill, 2 miles
Family Movie Night
This month we’ll watch Charlotte’s Web. Join us as we watch a spider that can spell words in her web. Snacks available for purchase. 7 – 8:30 p.m. Register by phone or online beginning March 20
18 • Saturday Acoustic Players Circle
Players, singers and listeners will enjoy acoustic music of varied styles in a relaxed, informal, family-friendly setting. Come lead, play and sing along with, or just enjoy songs based on a theme that changes every month. This month’s theme: Songs Everyone Knows. 1 – 3 p.m.
19 • Sunday April Flower Stroll
Spring is in the air and so is the fragrance of flowers. Come to Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation for a spring wild flower hike. Let’s see what’s blooming! 2 – 3:30 p.m. Terrain: moderate, paved, some gravel, one hill, 2 miles Spring Bird Walks
(see 4/12 for details)
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com 20 Emerald Necklace April 2015
23 • Thursday Stroller School
29 • Wednesday Preschool: Seeds
Bring your babies out to the park to learn about the babies who live in nature. Using games, songs, live animals, and outdoor time, we’ll learn about some of the animals that are opening their eyes to the world for the first time. 10 – 11 a.m. Ages: 3 years & under with adult Terrain: easy, one hill, 1 mile
Spring is here and it’s almost planting time! We’ll talk about different kinds of seeds people have planted and eaten over time. Enjoy a story and craft about seeds and then plant some to grow at home. 10 – 11 a.m. Age: 3 – 5 years with adult Register online beginning April 1
25 • Saturday
30 • Thursday
Family Bike Ride
Load up your family, friends and bicycles, too, then head to CanalWay Center. We’ll start with a bike inspection, then head out for a nice bike ride along the Towpath. Helmet required. 1 – 4 p.m. Terrain: 1 hill, 6 – 8 miles Register by phone or online beginning April 1
26 • Sunday Egg-speriments
The whole family will enjoy this opportunity to play with food. Join Naturalist Sarah Dudziak to explore this incredible natural item before we try our hand at amazing egg-speriments. 2 – 3 p.m. Ages: families Fee: $2 per team of 2 Register by phone or online beginning March 20 Spring Bird Walks
(see 4/12 for details)
Beginner Backpacking Trip
Join us for an overnight trip to experience and learn about backpacking essentials including backcountry hygiene, cooking and safety. Don’t worry, a porta-john will be available for this introductory field-based class. Pre-trip meeting: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Trip dates: May 8, 1 p.m. – May 9, noon Hinckley Reservation Ages: adults Fee: $65 (equipment available) clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
Euclid Creek Reservation 15 • Wednesday Wildflowers on Wednesday
Euclid Creek Reservation may be small but it’s bursting with beautiful wildflower blooms. Take a walk to search for spring. 10 – 11:30 a.m. Highland Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: some hills, 1.5 miles 440-473-3370
Rain Barrel Workshop Thursday, April 9 Garfield Park Center 6:30 – 8 p.m. Fee: $60 ($20 for extra barrel with no diverter) Register by April 1 216-524-6580 ext. 22 Save the rain for a sunny day. Learn how to and why you should make a rain barrel to harvest rainwater for later use. Fee includes barrel and all parts including a downspout diverter.
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Fishing in Wallace Lake, Mill Stream Run Reservation
25 • Saturday Naturalist at Wildwood
Drop-in at the lakefront this afternoon. Naturalist Jake Kudrna will be exploring the wetlands and shoreline from Wildwood to Euclid Beach. No agenda – just exploring our great lake! 2 – 4 p.m. Wildwood 440-473-3370
Garfield Park Reservation 16 • Thursday
Asylum. Hear about the history of these amazing places from Historical Interpreter Karen Lakus. 10 – 11 a.m. Mill Creek Falls Terrain: paved, one hill, 1 mile 216-206-1000
Garfield Park Center for Urban Agriculture Open Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday Noon – 5 p.m. Open for scheduled programs 11350 Broadway Ave. Garfield Heights 216-341-3152
Jazz in the Park
Enjoy an evening of music by solo jazz guitarist Victor Samalot. Bring a chair and some snacks, then sit back and relax. In case of inclement weather, program will be held in Garfield Park Center. 7 – 9 p.m. Red Oak Picnic Shelter 216-341-3152
18 • Saturday Mill Creek Trail History Hike
See the largest waterfall in Cuyahoga County, Mill Creek Falls. Then walk to the site of the former Northern Ohio Lunatic
1 • Wednesday Step into Spring
Enjoy a brisk walk through the forest interior. Springtime is a great opportunity to renew the spirit and take in the beauty of the season. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Terrain: gravel, some hills, stairs, 1 mile
2 • Thursday
15 • Wednesday
Planting Container Herb Gardens
Homeschool Homesteaders Raising Chickens
Do you live in a place with little to no area to garden? Learn how you can grow fresh, delicious herbs in small containers. Participants go home with a recycled container to start their garden. 6:30 – 8 p.m. Register online
You can raise your own meat and eggs at home. Meet some real hens, learn the basics of keeping chickens, and take home an activity book of lesson plans. 1 – 3 p.m. Ages: grades K – 6 Register online beginning April 1
4 • Saturday Hike to the Falls
Have you visited the largest waterfall in Cuyahoga County? Take a hike this morning to see the splendor and learn the fascinating history of Mill Creek Falls. We’ll search for early wildflowers along the way. 10 a.m. – noon Terrain: mostly flat, 3 miles
11 • Saturday Bird Song by Habitat
Beginning birders have no fear. Learn how to identify bird song by habitat. Join us for an indoor class and an optional outdoor portion. 1 – 2:30 p.m. Terrain: easy, 1 mile
18 • Saturday Plant Potatoes
Growing potatoes at home can yield lots of food from a small growing space. Learn all about this staple crop, then plant some in our garden for a hands-on tutorial on how to grow them. Fee includes one pound of seed potatoes to take home. 1 – 3 p.m. Fee: $5 Register online by April 11
23 • Thursday Food Film: PolyCultures
Be inspired to grow your own food. Cleveland’s thriving community of local food growers is spotlighted in this film about growing food where we live. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. 21
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Garfield Park Center continued
25 • Saturday Spring Cleaning Your Garden
Warm weather is on the way and it’s time to start getting your garden ready for the growing season. Learn how to prepare your beds for planting. 1 – 2 p.m.
26 • Sunday Fun with Food!
Every youngster will serve as the “Prep Chef” for their own portion of a simple meal. We’ll learn a little about the food that comes from the dusty earth. 2 – 3:30 p.m. Ages: 6 – 13 years Fee: $3 Register by phone or online by April 22
30 • Thursday Beneficial Bugs
Preschoolers can learn all about bugs that are good for the garden. We’ll find out how these little creatures help us grow the food we eat through a story, songs and an activity that will help attract these bugs to our gardens. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Ages: 4 – 6 years with an adult Benefits of Buying Local
Want to know what all the hype is about? Buying local can be good for you, your family and the community. Learn the benefits and find out where you can buy local this harvest season. 7 – 8 p.m. Register by phone or online by April 27
Hinckley Reservation 7 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart
Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis for a hike through the hills and valleys in search of some early blooming wildflowers. Be prepared for muddy trails and a creek crossing.
9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Ledge Lake pool parking lot Ages: adults Terrain: hills, muddy, 3 – 3.5 miles 440-526-1012
16 • Thursday Wildflower Walk
Our spring ephemerals come and go very quickly so be sure to come out and enjoy a weekly walk to witness these beauties; as they may not be here next week. A naturalist will lead the way and identify this week’s “best in bloom.” Bring your favorite wildflower identification guide to help along the trail. 3 – 4:30 p.m. Johnson’s Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: possible hill, 1 – 2 miles 440-526-1012
Sunday, April 19 Wendy Park • Lakefront Reservation 9:30 – 11 a.m. Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile 440-734-6660 Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield for a bird survey at Wendy Park. This 22-acre parcel on Cleveland’s shore has recorded 245 species. Be a part of Cleveland’s race to find more bird species in 2015 than New York City in the national Urban Birding Challenge.
18 • Saturday Woodland Wildflowers
(see page 18, BNC 4/25 for details) 3 – 4:30 p.m. Johnson’s Picnic Area Ages: adults, families Terrain: hill, 1.5 miles 440-526-1012
19 • Sunday Breakfast in the Park
Join us for a morning walk to Hinckley Lake. We’ll return to a hot, delicious breakfast prepared by volunteers. 9 – 11 a.m. Redwing Cabin Terrain: moderate, 1 mile Register by phone beginning April 1 440-526-1012
23 • Thursday Wildflower Walk (see 4/16 for details)
24 • Friday Woodcock Watch
Join Naturalist Jenny McClain to experience the spectacular spring performance of the male woodcock. We’ll listen for the distinctive call, watch the sky dance, and learn about their amazing adaptations for survival. 8:15 – 9:15 p.m. Buzzard Roost 440-526-1012
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com 22 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Urban Birding Challenge
photo by Brian Fyfe
26 • Sunday Wildflowers Galore
Hinckley Reservation has a spectacular display of spring wildflowers. Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis on a hike through the hills to admire their beauty. 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. Hinckley Lake Boathouse parking lot Terrain: hills, slippery, 3 miles 440-526-1012
30 • Thursday Wildflower Walk (see 4/16 for details)
Lakefront Reservation 4 • Saturday Beach Egg Hunt
Many different types of animals lay eggs. Learn about a few different egg layers then join us for an egg hunt on the beach! Children should bring their own egg hunt bag to collect eggs hidden in the sand. After the hunt, children will enjoy a sweet treat. 10 – 11 a.m. Lower Edgewater Shelter Ages: 12 years & under with adult Fee: $3 Terrain: sand, 0.5 mile Register online beginning March 20 216-206-1000 Edgewater Park History Hike
Take a stroll with Historical Interpreter Karen Lakus. Learn about some of the landmarks and history of this amazing property. 2 – 3 p.m. Lower Edgewater Shelter Terrain: mostly paved, one hill, 2 miles 216-206-1000
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Hybrid salamander
12 • Sunday
19 • Sunday
Hawkwatch
Lakefront Dog Walk
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield for a hawkwatch. We’ll search the skies for migrating hawks, falcons and eagles moving along the lakefront. If there’s SSW winds, bird numbers could be impressive. Bring a lawn chair as this count will be stationary. Drop by or stay for the entire count. 9:30 a.m. – noon Edgewater Pier 440-734-6660
We’ll explore Edgewater Park with our pets. Dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after. 9:45 – 11 a.m. Lower Edgewater Fishing Pier Terrain: paved, one hill, 3 miles 216-206-1000
18 • Saturday UnNatural Trail
We have set-up a spring trail of UnNatural items at Upper Edgewater. Meet by the west end of the picnic shelter for a list of what to look for while you are out walking the trail. Items will be camouflaged to blend in with nature. 1 – 3 p.m. Upper Edgewater Picnic Shelter Westside 216-206-1000
22 • Wednesday Earth Day Walk
Celebrate Earth Day with us as we walk around Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve. We’ll observe the wonders of Mother Earth while learning about this fascinating nature preserve. Remember, Earth Day is every day. 6 – 7 p.m. Lakefront Administration Offices Terrain: moderate, 1 mile 216-206-1000
Look About Lodge Open for scheduled programs 37374 Miles Rd. Bentleyville 440-247-7075 South Chagrin Reservation
4 • Saturday Cleveland Natural Science Club Spring Fishing
Carl Bachtel, fisherman, photographer, and Cleveland Metroparks volunteer, will discuss the howtos of fishing – where to go, what to use, and what to look for along the way. 2 – 3 p.m.
11 • Saturday Good Ol’ Fashioned Nature Hike
Come along for a traditional hike along the trail. We’ll follow the Chagrin River, seeking birds, bees, blossoms, and other treasures. 9 – 11 a.m. Terrain: muddy, mostly flat, 1.5 miles
Second Saturday Storytelling
Enjoy traditional storytelling by professional and non-professional storytellers. The cozy atmosphere of Look About Lodge is the perfect place to listen to oldtime storytelling. Share a short story following refreshments. 7:30 – 9 p.m. Ages: adults, older students
12 • Sunday Spring Watercolor Workshop
Express your creative side and paint the signs of spring in watercolor. Professional Artist Jan Mettee will demonstrate her skills and guide us through a painting. No artistic experience is necessary to participate, just a desire to have fun with art. Fee includes instruction and supplies. 1– 3:30 p.m. Ages: adults Fee: $20 ENAC: $17 Register online by April 9
23
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Look About Lodge continued
13 • Monday Look About Littles
Young children who love nature will discover spring during this delightful six-week program. We’ll meet every Monday from April 13 – May 18 to discover spring, explore outside and work on a project together. 10 – 11:30 a.m. or 1 – 2:30 p.m. Ages: 3 1/2 – 5 years with adult Fee: $50 Register online by April 10
18 • Saturday Nature Writing: Mealtime Strategies
The ingenious structures of beaks, jaws with tongues and teeth, and insects’ proboscis directly determines what food creatures are able to eat. Join us as we consider how mouths make meals possible. Join writers Jenny Clark and Linda Tuthill as we write about animal eating adaptations. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Ages: 16 years & over Fee: $25 Terrain: easy, 0.5 mile Register by phone or online by April 16 440-473-3370
19 • Sunday In Search of the Spring Evening
Hike with Naturalist Carly Martin in search of amphibians and other treasures of the spring evening. We’ll carpool around the reservation on our adventure. 5:30 – 7:30p.m. Terrain: muddy, challenging, 2 miles
26 • Sunday Seed Starter Workshop
To some, starting seeds indoors seems intimidating, but with some simple techniques you can easily get your favorite varieties started indoors with minimal effort. Join us to learn these techniques and how seed starting can be essential to a healthy garden. 1:30 – 3 p.m. Fee: $5 Register online by April 23
Mill Stream Run Reservation
Cleveland Metroparks 2015 Tour of Wildflowers April 1 – June 6 North Chagrin Nature Center
17 • Friday Woodcock Watch
Join Naturalist Sharon Hosko to experience the spectacular flight of this woodland sandpiper and learn what he hopes to accomplish with his peenting, twittering and chirping. 8 – 9 p.m. Royalview Picnic Area Terrain: easy, 0.25 mile 440-526-1012
North Chagrin Reservation 4 • Saturday Dog Hike
Do you want to learn more about spring wildflowers? Do you want an excuse to explore Cleveland Metroparks during the most exciting time of year? Join us for the Tour of Wildflowers! Travel around the Emerald Necklace and use your digital camera or smartphone to capture ‘selfies’ with wildflowers on the provided checklist. Stop by any Cleveland Metroparks nature center or email your picture to have it verified. Find as many flowers as you can, then turn in your checklist for your very own Tour of Wildflowers t-shirt! Join us at North Chagrin Nature Center for the Tour Kick-off on April 4 and celebrate at the Tour Party on June 6. Register at clevelandmetroparks.com to receive your checklist and contest rules. For more information, call 440-473-3370 or email northchagrinnc@clevelandmetroparks.com.
Bring your best furry friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. All dogs must be leashed. 2 – 3:30 p.m. Strawberry parking lot Terrain: uneven, hills 3.5 – 4 miles 440-473-3370
7 • Tuesday Buckeye Trail Section Hike
Explore sections of the Buckeye Trail the first Tuesday of the month, April through September, with a fast-paced hike covering 3 – 5 miles and a backpack fitting demonstration. 6 – 8 p.m. Forest Picnic Area Ages: 14 years & over with adult clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
9 • Thursday Little Explorers Story and Stroll
In spring, animals make a home for their family. Discover different types of animal homes through a story and a walk through the woods. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. A.B. Williams Woods Ages: 2 – 5 years with adult 440-473-3370
White trillium 24 Emerald Necklace April 2015
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION 11 • Saturday High Mileage Trek – Spring
Join us for the first in a series of high mileage hikes. We’ll enjoy everything that North Chagrin Reservation has to offer through the seasons. Be prepared to hike a long distance by bringing a water bottle, snack and wearing proper footwear. 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Strawberry Picnic Area Terrain: hills, stream crossings, natural surface trails, 8 – 10 miles 440-473-3370
15 • Wednesday Little Explorers Story and Stroll (see 4/9 for details)
1 – 2 p.m. Squire’s Castle
17 • Friday Amphibian Hike
(see page 9 for details)
18 • Saturday Junior Naturalist
Join us the third Saturday of every month. In April, we’re going on a wildflower hunt to find as many as we can, learn what makes them so special and discover how your family can get involved with wildflower programs this spring. 10 – 11 a.m. Squire’s Castle parking lot Ages: 6 – 10 years with adult Terrain: moderate, 1 mile 440-473-3370 Land Navigation 2
Brush up on your map and compass skills with this intermediate course that delves into compass skills and the use of topographical maps for navigation. Dress appropriately for cold weather. 1 – 3 p.m. Strawberry Picnic Area Ages: 14 years & over with adult Fee: $15 Register online at clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
26 • Sunday
implements such as pie irons and Dutch ovens. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. River Grove-Chestnut Shelter Ages: 14 years & over with adult Fee: $15 Register by phone or online at clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
North Chagrin Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 3037 SOM Center Rd. Willoughby Hills 440-473-3370
1 • Wednesday Nature Fools
April Fool’s Day is a fun time to play tricks on each other, but what are some of the tricks that plants and animals play on us? Drop off your kids for a spring break afternoon of silly jokes and surprises. Dress for the weather and bring your favorite nature joke, if you have one. Snack and craft provided. 1 – 4 p.m. Nature Education Building Ages: 6 – 10 years Fee: $8 Register online by March 30
3 • Friday Drop-By Discovery
Nothing to do on a day off from school? Drop-by to see which animal we have out of its indoor home. Get an up-close look at a snake, a turtle, a salamander, or another one of our captive creatures. 1:30 – 4 p.m.
4 • Saturday Tour of Wildflowers Kick-Off
Tour of Wildflowers is back! Join us to celebrate the beginning of wildflower season and begin your own tour! We’ll get a primer on this year’s flowers, learn how your findings can help scientists, and share helpful tips and tricks. 2 – 3:30 p.m.
6 • Monday North Chagrin Nature Photography Club Down on the Farm… Naturally.
Pastoral scenes, old barns, any scene with a farming touch. Bring in 5 shots, but be sure to include nature! 8 – 9:30 p.m.
8 • Wednesday Chagrin River Homeschool
Let’s search for signs of spring! This session focuses on seasonal change, big and small. A lot can happen over five weeks. We’ll use our observation skills to conduct research, play games, and explore during this fascinating time of year. We meet at different locations each week; schedule given at first class. Dress for the weather. 10 a.m. – noon Nature Education Building Ages: 6 – 11 years (grades K – 2, 3–5) Fee: $35 (for five weeks) Register online by April 6
20 • Monday North Chagrin Nature Photography Club What I Had To Do To Get This Shot
Did you climb a tree, hang by your heels, squat in a cactus? Give us your five favorite nature shots and the stories that accompany them. 8 – 9:30 p.m.
24 • Friday Family Movie Night
Gather your friends and family to celebrate Earth Week by watching Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest. We’ll see the magical inhabitants of a rainforest fight to save their home. Bring a blanket and snacks. 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Camp Cooking
Warm up during the cool weather while learning to cook over an open fire. Learn fire building basics, fire safety, and cooking instruction using several different
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com
Rocky River Reservation 11 • Saturday Breakfast in the Park
Search for some of the first spring wildflowers as we stroll along a trail next to the river. While on our walk, our volunteer chefs will scramble up a delicious breakfast for all to enjoy. Sign up for your food item to contribute. Don’t forget your place setting. 9 – 11 a.m. South Mastick Picnic Area Terrain: level, 1.25 miles Register April 1 – 10 440-734-6660
Rocky River Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 24000 Valley Parkway North Olmsted 440-734-6660
1 • Wednesday Southwest Camera Club Gallery Wall
Southwest Camera Club members will display their beautiful photographs embracing the beauty of Northeast Ohio. Though April 30. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
6 • Monday Southwest Camera Club Susan Onysko on Travel Photography
Susan will share some tips and tricks for framing, capturing, and processing travel photos. Additional insight on how natural light and/or flash influence the locale in general, in nature, the landscape, the wildlife and even the food. 7:30 – 9 p.m.
7 • Tuesday Trout Unlimited: Trout in the Classroom (TIC)
TIC – what is it, what does it do, who is it for? We’ll discuss the process and goals of Trout in the Classroom and discuss how we might better promote these programs. We’ll also get reports from local schools sponsored by Trout Unlimited. 7 – 9 p.m. 25
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Rocky River Nature Center continued
Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society Ohio’s Woodpeckers
OSU Extension Wildlife Program Specialist, Marne Titchenell, presents Ohio’s Woodpeckers. Their incredible abilities have earned them the nickname “nature’s power tools.” We’ll explore why they have earned this title, their interesting lifestyles and Ohio’s different species of woodpeckers. 7:30 – 9 p.m.
8 • Wednesday Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association Spring Startup
It’s time to get your bees ready for the spring nectar flow! Learn what to do and meet your Cuyahoga County Bee Inspector, Phil Bartosh. 7:30 – 9 p.m.
9 • Thursday Backpacking Basics
Learn the basics of a safe and enjoyable backcountry experience as we discuss tents, backpacks, water treatment, and outdoor ethics. 6 – 9 p.m. Ages: 14 years & over with adult Fee: $12.50 clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704 Steelhead Basics
Phil Hillman (ODNR) and Cleveland Metroparks Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec will cover all the basic information about pursuing this spectacular and popular sport fish. 7 – 9 p.m.
12 • Sunday River Poets Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the River Poets for exceptional nature poetry readings. Share a sample of your own or simply come, listen, and be inspired. Noon – 1 p.m. Ages: adults
A Changing Season Hike
Investigate the changing of the seasons. Buds to blooms and green to white, what will change as you walk the same trails each month, March through December? Bring a notebook to write down some interesting tidbits. 1 – 2:15 p.m. Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile River Readers Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the River Readers to review Atlantic, by Simon Winchester. Professor Paul Hilston from Baldwin Wallace University will be our guest speaker. 2 – 4 p.m. Ages: adults
13 • Monday Knitting in Nature
Bring your camping chair and knitting bag. We’ll hike to a location and discuss the current environmental factors affecting Rocky River Reservation. This is not an instructional class so please come with some knitting knowledge. Program cancelled in case of rain. 10 – 11:15 a.m. Ages: 12 years & over Little Explorers: Robins
Big and little explorers are invited to learn about one of our favorite spring birds – the robin. Join us for music, stories, crafts and outdoor exploration. 10 – 11:15 a.m. or 1 – 2:15 p.m. Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile Register April 1 – 10 by phone or online Cuyahoga Astronomical Association Test Launch of the Orion Space Capsule
Club member and astrophotographer, Matt Frantudo, heads down to Florida for the test launch of America’s next generation space vehicle. Hear all about the launch and Matt’s experience. 7:30 – 9 p.m.
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com 26 Emerald Necklace April 2015
18 • Saturday BSA Merit Badge: Fish & Wildlife Management
Calling all Boy Scouts! Wildlife management is the science and art of managing the wildlife. Join Merit Badge Counselor and Naturalist Marty Calabrese to work through many, but not all of this badge’s requirements. 1 – 4 p.m. Terrain: moderate, on-trail, 2 miles Register by phone beginning March 18
19 • Sunday School of the Wilds West: Field Guides
Dr. Andy Jones of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History gives us the ornithological inside scoop behind why field guides need to be revised so frequently. What happened to rufous-sided towhees and slate-colored juncos? Come find out! 2 – 4 p.m.
20 • Monday Southwest Camera Club Digital and Slide Competition
Bring your digital and slide photos in the pictorial and the color red categories for our competition. Learn new techniques as you view other’s photos as well as receive feedback on your own work to help you produce even better photos. 7:30 – 9 p.m.
21 • Tuesday Nature Baby
Spring has sprung and it’s time to explore nature. Grab a baby backpack or just carry your child and join us for a walk in the woods. We’ll read a story then head outside to search for signs of spring. Older siblings welcome. 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Ages: 3 years & under Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile Bicycle Maintenance 1
Learn what makes the wheels go around on your bike in this lecture style class with some hands-on experience. Topics cover washing your bike, changing a flat tire, simple brake and
derailleur adjustments and more. No experience necessary. Do not bring your bike. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Ages: 14 years & over with adult Fee: $12.50 clevelandmetroparks.com/or 216-341-1704
23 • Thursday Wildflower Walk
As the snow and ice of winter melt away, we look to our woodland wildflowers as a sure sign of spring. Join Naturalist Marty Calabrese seeking the best displays of color as we survey the parade of wildflowers. Checklists provided. 2 – 3 p.m. Terrain: mostly flat, 0.5 mile
25 • Saturday Spring Migration Primer
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield for a full sweep of northwest Ohio marshes seeking spring’s first returning migrant warblers, plus waterfowl, herons and egrets, shorebirds and eagles. 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center parking lot Ages: adults Fee: $59, includes transportation, lunch Register online beginning April 1
27 • Monday Discovering Nature: Wildflowers
Join Naturalist Bev Walborn on an outdoor adventure just for preschoolers. Discover spring wildflowers on our hike where we’ll learn songs, go on a scavenger hunt and, of course, have fun. 10 – 10:30 a.m. Ages: 2 – 6 years with adult Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile Salamander Survey (see page 9 for details)
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Rocky River Nature Center
South Chagrin Reservation 2 • Thursday Spring Hike
Join a naturalist every Thursday morning this month on a hike as we explore spring exploding around us in the diverse habitats of Jackson Field. 9 – 10:30 a.m. Jackson Field Terrain: flat, 1.5 miles 440-473-3370
9 • Thursday Spring Hike (see 4/2 for details)
11 • Saturday Nature Journaling
Experience nature in a new way as we explore the sights and sounds of the seasons. We’ll record our observations in a journal of our own creation. You may want to bring a camera.
1 - 3 p.m. Jackson Field Ages: adults Fee: $15 Registration required by phone or online by April 8 440-473-3370
25 • Saturday
16 • Thursday
Join Naturalist Wendy Weirich for a closer look at the wildflowers at Sulphur Springs. 2 – 4 p.m. Sulphur Springs picnic area Terrain: rolling hills, 2 miles 216-881-8141 ext 3005
Spring Hike (see 4/2 for details)
23 • Thursday Spring Hike (see 4/2 for details)
Nuthatch Avoiders (see 4/18 for details)
26 • Sunday Wildflower Wander
30 • Thursday Spring Hike (see 4/2 for details)
27
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION
Watershed Stewardship Center Sunday Noon – 4:30 p.m. Tuesday– Saturday 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 2277 W. Ridgewood Dr., Parma 440-887-1968 West Creek Reservation
2 • Thursday The Life and Art of Charley Harper
Learn about the life and art of modern American wildlife artist Charley Harper. Afterwards, using various mediums, we’ll create our own Charley Harper inspired artworks. 1 – 3:30 p.m. Ages: 14 years & over recommended
3 • Friday School’s Out Drop-by: Pysanky Eggs
Bring the kids and decorate egg shells to celebrate a spring afternoon. Learn about Ukrainian eggs and how the tradition of egg dying traveled with immigrants to Cleveland. Noon – 2 p.m. Ages: 7 years & over
7 • Tuesday Birds, Bees and More Drop-by
It’s not just the birds and the bees, love is in the spring air for many animals. Drop by anytime to learn about mating habits and behaviors of a variety of critters. Come discover what spring animal babies we can expect and where to find them. 1:30 – 4 p.m.
8 • Wednesday Beginner’s Birding
Hit the trails with Naturalist Mark Warman and scan the skies above forest, meadow and wetlands. This walk is intended to introduce students on spring break to the birds at West Creek Reservation. Some binoculars available for loan. 10 – 11:30 a.m. Ages: 7 years & over Terrain: moderate, 1.5 miles
It’s All About the Lake
Why don’t lakes freeze to the bottom? What is a dead zone and how does it happen? Are all algae bad? Dr. Julie Wolin of Cleveland State University will share the answers, and how to tell a healthy lake from a sick one. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Ages: 14 years & over
10 • Friday For Adults Only: Animal Behavior I
Knowing why animals behave the way they do is fascinating. This two-part program will introduce you to comparative behavioral ecology through discussion and multimedia, and includes a tour of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on April 11. Must attend both parts. 7 – 9 p.m. Fee: $22/$40 couples Register by phone or online by April 7
Sunday, April 26 1 – 2 p.m. Keystone Picnic Shelter West Creek Reservation 440-887-1968 Arm-of-the-Sea Theater from New York presents a play specially adapted for the Great Lakes and the Cuyahoga River offering an insight into animals’ role in a watershed ecosystem. This outdoor performance features gorgeous masks, giant puppet characters and live, original music. Sponsored by the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund.
12 • Sunday Girl Scout Program: Wonders of Water
Learn about water then search for life in West Creek. Love water, save water, and share your experiences to complete most requirements for WOW badges (badges not included). Dress for the weather. 1 – 3 p.m. Ages: Brownies grades 2 – 3 Terrain: uneven, wet, 0.5 mile Register by April 7 by phone or online
15 • Wednesday NestWatch 101
Have you ever watched a pair of birds raise a family in your yard? Consider monitoring bird nest boxes for science! NestWatch is a citizen science program that helps researchers understand how birds respond to changing landscapes and climate. 7 – 8:30 p.m. Ages: adults, 16 years & over Registration by phone or online
Photos by Jim Peppler
28 Emerald Necklace April 2015
APRIL PROGRAMS BY LOCATION 19 • Sunday
West Creek Reservation
Field Ecology: Streams
Engage in the first of a summerlong series of field-based ecology programs! Accompany Education Specialist Joe Higgins as we discuss and explore the physical and biological components of a stream ecosystem. Bring your waders or boots if you have them. Some waders available for loan. 2 – 5 p.m. Ages: 15 years & over Fee: $12 (includes a field notebook and field guide to common stream species) Terrain: wet, moderate Register by phone or online by April 12
11 • Saturday Headwater Hike
Discover a less-traveled trailhead at the southern reaches of West Creek Reservation, where restoration projects dot the creek banks and small tributaries meet the creek beneath wide bridges. We’ll be on the lookout for spring ephemerals, too. 2 – 3 p.m. Dentzler Road Trailhead Terrain: steep hill, 1 mile 440-887-1968
24 • Friday Wildflower Walk
Learn how to identify local wildflowers, then join a search for elusive West Creek Reservation wildflowers. Will we find violets? Squaw root? Jack-in-the-pulpit? Or will environmental factors have prevented these flowers from appearing? 1– 3:30 p.m. Terrain: easy, 2 miles
25 • Saturday Macroinvertebrate Mayhem
Learn about the fascinating world of aquatic macro invertebrates, then go exploring in the stream. You’ll learn how to ID and sample macros just like real scientists. Bring waterproof boots if you have them. Some waders available for loan. 1– 4 p.m. Ages: 14 years & over Terrain: stream walking, moderate
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Daily Keeper for a Day
Become a part of the specialized care that Zoo animals receive for a hands-on experience you won’t forget. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fee: $200 Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo/ learn1.aspx
Tuesday – Sunday Inside Tracks
Learn fun-filled facts on animal care, behavior, conservation and explore five animal areas on a golf cart. May include training sessions and get-close opportunities with animals, and behindthe-scenes tours. 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fee: $50 Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo/ learn1.aspx
1 • Wednesday Preschool Safari
Special hands-on activities and a get-close animal encounter geared just for kids – Eggs Everywhere. 10 – 11:30 a.m. Ages: families, 5 years & under Fee: $15/$10 zoo member Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo/ learn1.aspx 216-635-3391
2 • Thursday Career Day
Have a wild experience exploring the professional fields of animal care, veterinary medicine and conservation education. Get close to small animals, meet with Zoo staff, take a behind-thescenes tour and get an up-close look at the real work involved with an exciting Zoo career. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Ages: grades 9 – 12 Fee: $50/$45 zoo members Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo/ learn1.aspx 216-635-3391
6 • Monday Spring Break Camp
This five-day camp includes tours of Zoo exhibits, get-close encounters with small animals, arts and crafts, and conservationthemed games and stories. Ages: 5 – 10 years Fee: $190, $165 Zoo Society members Half-day $135, $115 Zoo Society members
10 • Friday Career Day (see 4/2 for details)
Ages: grades 5 – 8
11 • Saturday For Adults Only: Animal Behavior II (see WSC 4/10 page 28 for details)
10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ZOO
14 • Tuesday Homeschool Program – All About Water
This fun and interactive program complements science curriculums for homeschooled students. 10 – 11:30 a.m., grades K – 3 Noon – 1:30 p.m. grades 4 – 8 Fee: $10/$8 zoo member Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo/ learn1.aspx 216-635-3391 Preschool Safari Fascinating Fish (see 4/1 for details)
21• Tuesday Preschool Safari Monkey Business (see 4/1 for details)
30 • Thursday Preschool Safari What’s for Dinner (see 4/1 for details)
9 • Thursday Preschool Safari Eggs Everywhere (see 4/1 for details)
Cleveland Metroparks is proud to serve the following products.
To register, visit clevelandmetroparks.com 29
A LOOK AHEAD
A Look Ahead
Children’s Fishing Derbies Children’s Fishing Derbies
Saturday, May 16 • Wallace Lake, Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Sunday, May 17 • Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Heights Young anglers can try their luck on hungry rainbow trout, catfish and a variety of other fish while competing for prizes. Children can also learn how to cast or test their skills at the casting challenge. Fishing sessions: Ages 4 to 8 • 9 a.m. – noon Ages 9 to 15 • 1– 4 p.m. For more information, visit clevelandmetroparks.com or call 216-206-1010 30 Emerald Necklace April 2015
Fiber Foray Bus Trip
May 1 – 2 Fee: $85 (not including meals or hotel) Adults are invited to join Stacey Allen on an adventure to the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival, the largest festival east of the Mississippi with spinning, knitting, crochet, weaving, felting and all forms of fiber arts. Registration required 216-206-1000
Magee Marsh Birding Adventures Trip A: Saturday, May 9 • Trip B: Friday, May 15 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fee: $59 (includes transportation and lunch)
Visit one of the hottest spots to watch migrating warblers. 440-734-6660
A Look Ahead / CLEVELAND METROPARKS DIRECTORY
Ohio Wetlands Trifecta Bus Tour
Waterfall Bus Tour
Wednesday, May 6 • 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Ages: adults Fee: $60 includes transportation, lunch Registration required by May 1 440-887-1968 or clevelandmetroparks.com
Saturday, May 9 • 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Garfield Park Center parking lot Ages: adults Fee: $55 includes transportation, lunch Registration required by May 5 440-887-1968 or clevelandmetroparks.com
Join Naturalist Mark Warman to explore three living postcards from the ice age. Triangle Lake Bog, Kent Bog, and Herrick Fen, are humming with springtime activity. Birds, wetland plants, and earlyemergent insects are on the agenda.
Join Naturalist Debra Shankland on a tour of Cleveland Metroparks waterfalls as spring showers bring peak flows to these scenic and celebrated cataracts. This tour will be punctuated with short walks.
Cleveland Metroparks Directory Administrative Offices
216-635-3200/general Cleveland Metroparks information - 24-hours a day. 4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com 24-hour Job Hotline 216-635-3211 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3304 Volunteer Services 440-253-2142
Ranger Headquarters
4600 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-5530
Accidents or Emergencies 440-333-4911 Parkway Alert Line (PAL) 440-331-5963
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo & The RainForest 216-661-6500/24-hour information. 3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH 44109 clemetzoo.com
Office of the Zoo Executive Director 216-635-3331 Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-661-6500 ext 4356 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3229 School Group Reservations 216-635-3391 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3304 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421
Outdoor Recreation Acacia Facility Acacia Reservation 26899 Cedar Road Lyndhurst Food Service/Catering: Dino’s 216-342-4767
Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990 Cross Country Ski Rental 440-331-1070 Rivergate Facility 1785 Merwin Ave Cleveland 216-341-1704 Food Service/Catering: Merwin’s Wharf 216-664-5696
Golf
Golf Tee Reservations (24 hours) and directions, hours, fees etc. 216-635-3673 clevelandmetroparks.com Golf Services – general course info 440-232-7247 Big Met Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 4811 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 18599 Old Lorain Road Cleveland 216-941-9672 Manakiki Golf Course North Chagrin Reservation 35501 Eddy Road Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: Dino’s 216-342-4767 Mastick Woods Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 19900 Puritas Road Cleveland 216-267-5626 Food Service/Catering: Double Eagle Cafe 216-267-5626 Seneca Golf Course Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Food Service/Catering: Back 9 Grille 440-546-1555 Shawnee Hills Golf Course Bedford Reservation 18753 Egbert Road Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Shawnee Hills Grille 440-786-7587 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course Brecksville Reservation 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555 Washington Golf Course Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Blvd. Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799
Outdoor Experiences
Outdoor Experiences Administration 216-881-8141 ext. 3005 Outdoor Recreation 216-341-1704 Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530 Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530 NatureTracks Education Unit/EcoExplorers 440-331-8111 Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010
Education Centers CanalWay Center Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 4524 E. 49th Street Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center Brecksville Reservation 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville 440-526-1012 Garfield Park Center Garfield Park Reservation 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation 3037 SOM Center Road Willloughby Hills 440-473-3370 Rocky River Nature Center Rocky River Reservation 24000 Valley Parkway North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge South Chagrin Reservation 37374 Miles Rd. Bentleyville 440-247-7075 Watershed Stewardship Center at West Creek West Creek Reservation 2277 W. Ridgewood Dr. Parma 440-887-1968
Retail Nature Shops Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Hinckley 330-278-2160 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 Watershed Stewardship Center Parma 440-253-2170
Boating Emerald Necklace Marina Rocky River Reservation 1500 Scenic Park Drive Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Emerald Necklace Marina Grille 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Hinckley Reservation West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road, Berea Quarry Rock Café 440-826-1682
Swimming
440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Edgewater Park Lakefront Reservation Cleveland eats & treats Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village The Hut Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café
Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates, Clubs and Concessionaires Achievement Centers for Children Camp Cheerful 440-238-6200 Mill Stream Run Reservation BAYarts Huntington Reservation 440-871-6543 bayarts.net Vento 440-835-4530 Brecksville Historical Society Brecksville Reservation 440-526-7165 Brecksville Stables Brecksville Reservation 440-526-6767 brecksvillestables.com Brooklyn Exchange Cabin Hinckley Reservation 330-577-8882 exchangecabin@gmail.com Chagrin Valley Trails and Riding Club South Chagrin Reservation 216-635-3200 Cleveland Archery Club 216-635-3200 Cleveland Natural Science Club 440-247-4005 or 440-247-0151 Huntington Playhouse Huntington Reservation 440-871-8333 huntingtonplayhouse.com Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Huntington Reservation 440-871-2900 lensc.org Olmsted Historical Society Rocky River Reservation 216-501-3345 olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 valleyriding.org Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-471-8357
Affiliates are supported, but not operationally-funded, by Cleveland Metroparks. These outstanding non-profit organizations depend on class fees, special events, benefactor initiatives, and your financial support to operate. Your contributions and volunteer service are encouraged.
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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Cleveland, Ohio Permit No. 2911
4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY
printed on recycled paper
Celebrate Earth Day with a Party for the Planet Saturday, April 25 • 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit your favorite Zoo animals and exhibits: • new Penguin Shores seasonal exhibit in Northern Trek • a special preview of Professor Wylde’s live animal show • celebrate the Year of Clean Water with educational activities that focus on keeping our local water safe and drinkable. • recycle crafts • recycling collection – plastic, paper and aluminum
Using puppets and original music, the Arm-of-the-SeaTheater Company’s special theatrical performance provides an insight into the role animals play in a watershed ecosystem. Provided by the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund. An Educator’s Open House – local teachers can learn about the variety of programs offered by the Zoo’s Conservation Education Division. Teachers can register online at clevelandmetroparks. com/zoo or by calling 216-635-3391.
clevelandmetroparks.com