Emerald Necklace
August ‘12 Vol. 61 # 8
Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events
Contents Features 3 Liquid Gold 14 Nature Never Ends
Columns 4 Notes from the Field 5 Naturalist’s Almanac
In Addition 2 Touch-a-Truck
Sunday, August 19 Noon – 4 p.m. • Free! Park Operations • Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville
21 Events by Location
Gear up for fun! Have you ever wondered what kind of equipment it takes to take care of Cleveland Metroparks? Well, now is your chance to find out! We will have equipment set up representing several departments, including maintenance, specialty crews, golf, natural resources and law enforcement for children and families to inspect, climb on, and read why and how it supports our mission to maintain our precious system – bring a camera!
22 Events Calendar
For details, call 216-635-3200.
6 Inside the Emerald Necklace 16 Learn with These Golf “Courses” 17 Finish Summer in the Swing 18 Zoo News
32 Directory
All photos by Casey Batule or Cleveland Metroparks photo archive unless otherwise noted.
Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:
Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Marjorie Thomas Editor
Erie Reproduction Graphic Design
RR Donnelley Printing
Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com.
Board of Park Commissioners Dan T. Moore Bruce G. Rinker President Vice-President
Debra K. Berry Vice-President
Brian M. Zimmerman
Executive Director-Secretary
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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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Park Operations is located at 9485 Eastland Road in Mill Stream Run Reservation off Valley Parkway in Strongsville.
Liquid Gold Try to answer the following questions:
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What liquid was used to pay taxes in Ancient Rome?
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What liquid is used in Chinese burn units to speed healing?
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What liquid was commonly used as a topical antibiotic as late as WWII?
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What liquid has a “shelf life” of over 2,000 years?
What liquid was used by ancient Egyptians in the mummification process?
What liquid tastes delicious?
Honey. Honey begins as the nectar of flowers, collected by honeybees and turned into honey. Foraging honeybees are three weeks old when they begin visiting flowers rich with nectar. If you have ever picked a honeysuckle blossom, pinched the bottom end of the flower and sucked out the sweet liquid, you know what nectar tastes like. At each flower, the bee sticks out her tubular shaped tongue to drink in the nectar. After visits to many flowers, her honey stomach is full, so she heads home to the hive to deposit her load. On the way, enzymes in her honey stomach are added to the nectar to begin changing it into honey. At the hive, other bees add more enzymes, then put this nectar into wax cells and fan with their wings to evaporate excess water. Within a few days, the nectar has become honey. Its water content has been reduced from 80% or so down to less than 19%. At the same time, its sugar content has increased from about 20% to almost 80%. This honey is then capped with a thin layer of beeswax to store for future use. When beekeepers take honey from a hive, they use a hot knife to “uncap” these cells so the honey can be extracted. Rectangular frames of honey-filled beeswax are then put into a honey extractor, using centrifugal force to fling the honey out of the cells. Once it is bottled, the ingredient list should read: Honey. That’s it. Nothing added, nothing taken out. A chemical analysis of honey shows that honey is composed of sugar (from the nectar), water, enzymes (added by the bees), protein (probably from bits of pollen), propolis (a sticky substance found on plant buds and collected by bees), tiny bits of wax, and trace amounts of vitamins and minerals. All of this makes honey a nutritious food. We sometimes think of honey as having one predictable color and flavor, like the honey we might buy in the
Honeybee photo by Russ Ottens, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org
supermarket. There is, however, an amazing variety of honey flavors and colors in the world. The light-colored, delicate, flowery flavor of orange blossom honey is quite different from the dark brown, heavy flavor of buckwheat honey. And the unique “dirty gym sock” aroma of goldenrod honey belies its delicious taste. Many honeys are not made from the nectar of only one flower type, but are mixed, as in spring wildflower or summer wildflower. Whatever flowers the bees have visited become a delicious honey mixture. While honey is tasty, it is also useful for healing, both internally and externally. Scientific studies show it to be more effective than cough syrup for suppressing coughs in children. Local honey with its trace amounts of pollen may help allergy sufferers build immunities to the pollens that bother them. For thousands of years, wounds, burns and infections have been treated by covering them with honey. There has been a recent resurgence of this practice and doctors are taking notice. There have been reports of infections healed with honey after antibiotics have failed. It is known that honey draws moisture from wounds, causing moisture-loving bacteria and fungi to die. The moisture drawn out, when mixed with the water in the honey, produces hydrogen peroxide which is a mild antiseptic. Honey also has an acidic pH, which is not conducive to bacterial growth. Honey is an amazing substance. Although delicious to eat, its usefulness goes far beyond its flavor. When honey is all-natural and in its raw state (not excessively heated or filtered), it can be considered liquid gold. Kathy Schmidt, naturalist Rocky River Nature Center 3
Notes from the Field
Searching for the Flames of August
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Most of my friends await autumn-time for their forest walks through the riotous colors of fall, but in August, I find mine elsewhere. It is true that in autumn northeastern Ohio has the reddest reds (red maple, staghorn sumac, sourgum and others) and the orangest oranges (sassafras, poison ivy, tuliptree, sugar maple and others), but they pale in comparison to their shorter, more secretive relatives growing elsewhere. Let’s take a journey together and find them.
hummingbirds seek them out in August, as do swallowtail and fritillary butterflies, among others. It takes a profound change in habitat to find my other summer beacon of color, the spectacularly deep red-velvet of cardinal flower (lobelia cardinalis), a splendid August bloomer, which seeks shaded to somewhat sunny, wet, rich soils. Growing from twelve inches up to three feet tall, this is a wildflower of stream banks
For me, there is no orange to compare with my favorite summer wildflower, orange butterfly weed (called asclepias tuberosa by my botanical friends). A formerly common dryhabitat prairie flower, this relative of the more familiar common milkweed is found in welldrained soils in Orange Butterfly Weed, photo by John D. Byrd, Mississippi State University, Bugwood.org sunny meadows and clean-water ponds. Like many lobelias, the and along country roadsides. It tends to grow as flower boasts a deep, distinctive sort of hood. a single plant or in small clusters, but one glance You can imitate the look of the cardinal flower at the bright orange-red flat-topped flower heads petal structures by holding your three middle is all you need to recognize this most gorgeous fingers together and bending your thumb and plant of summer. Unlike most other milkweeds, little finger beneath them. It is said that the its sap is clear, not milky, but the sap is said to tubular flowers are so deep that they depend be bitter and somewhat toxic, and it is thus fairly almost exclusively on hummingbirds to pollinate well-protected against mammalian browsers them. Black and spicebush swallowtail butterflies that might think its dark green leaves otherwise take advantage of the nectar that this bright red delicious. Only the caterpillar larvae of the candle produces, and certain bumblebees, too monarch butterfly seek it out for food. large to climb into the long, red flowers, cut a This brightest of beacons on the meadow is small slit at the bottom of the flower and sip the not without value to other wildlife, however. sweet nectar anyway. In August, I like to think The crown-shaped flower petals protect the of cardinal flowers as canoe flowers, as they are sweet nectar within, and our Ruby-throated best found along the banks of local streams and
Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Naturalist’s Almanac
rivers and can be easily found and photographed from the shallow draft canoe. In last month’s article, we looked at the measure of value in nature and suggested that not everything alive on this great blue and green globe has to have a value to the sometimes-selfish human species. Every living thing placed upon this planet is intricately connected to a host of other living things, and gives life, sustains life, or takes life according to the dictates of interspecific adaptation to habitat over time. Some look at these most brilliant August wildflowers, these orange butterfly weeds and cardinal flowers and wonder what “good” are they? In the world of nature, there is no “good” or “bad”. They are good for themselves, and for those insects specialized enough to use them, and they are a soul-filling delight to the eyes of those who venture out in August to discover them. Those few things are value enough. Take a drive and walk in Cleveland Metroparks to find them this month.
August
August begins the turning point of summer. Daylight is noticeably shorter as the month pushes forward leading to an average decrease in temperature. Flocks of blackbirds start to congregate in large numbers, bats begin to disperse from maternity colonies and the first southerly migration of shorebirds begins. Bird offspring now foraging on their own are still dependent on adults to teach them migration routes. August is a good time to be out at night as the Perseid meteor shower peaks early in the month and is a great opportunity to witness shooting stars while listening to insects. Birds Late summer marks the end of breeding season for most birds, except for cedar waxwings and American goldfinches, which are hard at work preparing nests and raising young in the heat of the year. The dawn chorus of songbirds such as warblers, flycatchers, tanagers and grosbeaks has quieted, except for redeyed vireos singing high in the canopy of lush forests. While it seems early, fall migration is already underway, as blackbird flocks gather in fields and shorebirds return to wetlands and marshes as they move south from the Arctic tundra.
Coneflower
Wildflowers The rich soil nutrients found in floodplain forests allow some of the tallest wildflowers in Cleveland Metroparks to thrive. Yellows of wingstem, greenheaded coneflower and cup plant can grow over 10 feet tall which are highlighted with the lavenders of the shorter wild bergamot and wood sage. These insect pollinated plants are great places to search for predators, such as assassin bugs and crab spiders waiting patiently for their next meal.
Robert D. Hinkle, PhD Chief Naturalist Emeritus rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com
Dragonfly
Amphibians
Insects
Salamander larvae found in rapidly drying vernal pools begin their transition from life in the water to life on land. They leave the pools to forage in the forest leaf litter and soil; one day to return to this same pool to mate and provided life to another generation of salamanders.
The fields and wetlands are alive with the buzzing and fluttering of colorful insects; August is a peak time for dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly diversity. Skimmers, darners, bluets, spreadwings, baskettails, saddlebags and other unique odonates are busy foraging on the wing and laying eggs in ponds and lakes. Common buckeyes, one of the most brilliant of butterflies, can be found on sunny paths through meadows. Cicadas, grasshoppers, crickets and katydids fill the afternoons, evenings, and starlit nights with loud serenades.
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Summer Beach Party
Inside the Emerald Necklace
Saturday, August 4 • 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation · Bay Village This year’s Summer Beach Party with a Movie on the Beach features Back to the Future. Enjoy beach games and activities, see the national award-winning sand sculptor Carl Jara and listen to the steel drum sounds from the Calypso Gypsies! From 5 to 8 p.m., families can enjoy a variety of games, activities and children’s live entertainment. There will also be activities including: a sand castle-building area, a fishing demonstration area, face painting, live animals and more! 8 p.m. – Campfire and entertainment 8:45 p.m. – Movie on the Beach – Back to the Future 1980’s teenager Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is transported back in time to 1955 where he accidentally changes the course of history through a series of comic misadventures and finds he must return things to the way they were, back to the future. For more information, call 216-635-3200. Huntington Beach is located off Lake Road in Huntington Reservation, between Crocker-Bassett and Columbia roads in Bay Village – north of the I-90/Columbia Road exit.
Cleveland Metroparks Dive-In Movie II – The Muppets! Friday, August 10 • 8 p.m. Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation · Hinckley Twp. Join Walter, Kermit and the gang as they reunite your favorite Muppets to save the day! Visitors can bring something to sit on and enjoy the movie from a spot on the lawn, or view the movie while relaxing in an inner tube in the heated luxury of Ledge Pool. Inner tubes are available by reservation starting July 27 and are $5 for single tubes and $7 for double tubes. Doors open at 8 p.m. with movie starting at 8:45 p.m. depending on sunset. All ages welcome to this great movie, but visitors 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the pool. No outside floating devices will be permitted in the swimming area. Space in the pool is limited, so be sure to reserve an inner tube. Refreshments will be available through Ledge Rock Café. For more information and to reserve an inner tube, call 330-239-2911. Ledge Pool and Recreation Area is located at 1151 Ledge Rd., between State and Kellogg roads in Hinckley Reservation in Hinckley Township.
Still Time To Enjoy Some Sweet Summer Fun In Cleveland Metroparks Ledge Rock Café • 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Twp. Quarry Rock Café • 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Stay cool at Cleveland Metroparks swimming areas, and enjoy a snack after your swim.
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August is Still Hot, Hot, Hot – Hot! Even though August is the last full month of summer, the temperatures are still hot! There’s still time to cool off in Cleveland Metroparks four swimming areas. Swimming hours are: • Huntington Beach, Huntington Reservation, Bay Village – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. – through August 12 then weekends only through Labor Day • Hinckley Lake, Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. – through August 12 • Wallace Lake, Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. – through August 12 • Ledge Pool and Recreation Area, Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township – through August 19 (daily pool admission fee or season pass access) – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. also features reservable picnic shelters, fishing along Ledge Lake shore (fishing license required), volleyball and basketball courts, and swimming lessons. Lifeguards are on-duty during posted hours at all four swimming areas.
Dog Paddle & Pet-a-Palooza! Sunday, August 26 • 1 – 5 p.m. Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. There’ll be hundreds of dogs at Cleveland Metroparks Ledge Pool for the 8th annual Dog Paddle & Pet-a-Palooza! Visitors can bring their non-aggressive dogs to swim at Ledge Pool for a donation ($5/per dog) that benefits the Medina County SPCA. A mini dog fair will also be held on the grounds with exhibitors and vendors with items to purchase to pamper the pooches. Leash up your dog and take them on a naturalist-led dog hike, enjoy animal safety demonstrations with Cleveland Metroparks K-9 unit and B.A.R.K, and be sure to watch the Buckeye Dock Dogs perform, too. Celebrate the dog days of summer at Dog Paddle & Pet-a-Palooza! For more information, call 330-239-2911. Ledge Pool and Recreation Area is located at 1151 Ledge Rd., between State and Kellogg roads in Hinckley Reservation in Hinckley Township.
Boating Cleveland Metroparks offers a number of areas to enjoy boating, including: Emerald Necklace Marina (216-226-3030), Rocky River Reservation, Lakewood Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store (330-278-2160), Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township (rowboat, electric motorboat, canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboard, pontoon boat or paddle boat rental is available) Wallace Lake (440-826-1682), Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea (non-motorized boats only, paddle boat rental is available )
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Bug City
Snakes, Turtles & Fun!
Saturday, August 11 • 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Garfield Park Nature Center Garfield Park Reservation Garfield Heights
Saturday, August 25 • 4 - 8 p.m. The Shelterhouse Picnic Area South Chagrin Reservation Bentleyville
What better way to celebrate Year of the Pollinator than to stop by and visit Bug City! Pollinators and other insects and bugs will be the hit of the day. Meet Mayor Mantis, Lucille Bugg, and others at the 22nd Annual Bug City, where this year, we will welcome our 100,000 guest! Could that be you?
Enjoy an evening special event dedicated to reptiles with live animals, games and crafts, live music, presentations and exhibits, refreshments for sale, and more! The Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists will be on-hand with various live reptiles too. There will be many fun activities for families to enjoy:
During your visit to the various City districts, stop by to see bugs from all over the world, taste-test some enticing recipes by our Bug City Chef, race a mealworm in the Mealworm 500, go on a safari at the Bug Hunt, and see the amazing Alberti Flea Circus! Guests can pick up a passport to the City to find out which district has live entertainment, crafts, games, a kids’ train (for $2), ant trails, this year’s Bug City pin, and more. For more information, call 216-341-3152.
• Meet live reptiles • Play a giant reptile board game • Take a turn on our turtle racing scooters • Make some reptile crafts • Pick one of our specially trained racing turtles to cheer for as they go for the gold! • See how you measure up to the world’s largest recorded reptiles • Younger children can dig in our corncob pools • Meet a naturalist • Groove to some good tunes • Enjoy nature games • Food, snacks and beverages will be available for sale • And, don’t forget your camera to catch some great shots of your kids! For more information, call 440-247-7075
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A Look Ahead Monarch Magic Saturday, September 8 Noon – 4 p.m. • Free! North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation • Mayfield Village As fall begins with winter not too far away, find out where monarch butterflies migrate to escape from Ohio’s winters. Enjoy presentations, hikes, crafts, refreshments, and more. Get up-close and personal with these beautiful winged travelers! For more information, call 440-473-3370.
Emerald Necklace Rally Sunday, September 16 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. CanalWay Center • Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation • Cuyahoga Heights Join us for a scenic motorcycle ride through the Emerald Necklace. The ride will make five stops at some of the jewels of the Emerald Necklace. Riders can compete in a Cleveland Metroparks trivia contest, the answers will be found at the stops and the winner will receive a prize basket. Registration is required. For more information, call 216-206-1000.
Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival Sunday, September 16 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Free! Frostville Museum • Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted Relive the sights, sounds and tastes of Ohio’s early days and enjoy some great Americana music. Visitors can enjoy a variety of crafts, folk music, food, and handson activities, including pioneer toys, candle-dipping, two-man saw, basket weaving, butter churning, and other pioneer-day life skill demonstrations – for all ages to see, smell and try! The event is also filled with great music, featuring local bands and national act Valerie Smith and her band. For more information, call 440-734-6660.
Ledges to Lake Adventure Race Saturday, September 22 9 a.m. Spillway Picnic Area • Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Township Test your running, paddling and riding skills. The Ledges to Lake Adventure Race includes a 3 mile run, 2 mile paddle and 9 mile road bike ride. For more information, call 216-341-1704.
FallFest: 18th Century Festival Sunday, September 30 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Free! Meadows Picnic Area • Brecksville Reservation • Brecksville Step back into history at the annual FallFest: 18th Century Festival. Enjoy a variety of old-time, pioneer life skills, such as candle dipping and butter churning. Plus, see an American Revolution encampment with formation drills and other demonstrations by the Brigade of the American Revolution. For more information, call 440-526-1012. 9
Applications Now Available for Reflections of Nature Quilt Show
With Fall Around the Corner, Now is the Time to Reserve the Chalet Recreation Area!
Walk through the Park District to find your inspiration to create a quilt and enter it into Cleveland Metroparks Reflections of Nature Quilt Show the weekend of November 10 and 11. Nature-themed quilts and wall hangings can be entered into the juried show. Pick up applications at any nature center or download an application online at clevelandmetroparks.com. Application deadline is Thursday, October 25. For more information, call 440-734-6660.
Great Lake Erie Boat Float Saturday, September 8 10 a.m. boat launch Lower Edgewater State Park Beach Recent reports tell of bits of plastic spread across the oceans of the world. We don’t have to go to the oceans, however, to see the impact of plastic on our environment. The beaches on our own Lake Erie tell a similar story. To raise awareness about the impact of plastics on the environment, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and The Cleveland Museum of Natural History are hosting the Fourth Annual Great Lake Erie Boat Float. Build and float your own boat out of post-consumer recyclable materials. After the Boat Float, stay on the beach and join the Cuyahoga County Board of Health for a beach cleanup. There is no registration fee, but all participants must sign a liability waiver and will be required to wear a life jacket while in the water. For more information about the Boat Float, visit: www.lakeerieboatfloat.org or contact Cathi Lehn at clehn@cmnh.org. Spectators Welcome!
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Book your next family outing, group function, and company meeting/picnic at the Chalet Recreation Area. Spectular fall colors make fall a great season to have an event at the Chalet. The area features charcoal grills, picnic tables, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and swings. The Chalet facility can accommodate up to 65 people in the main lounge and additional 50 in the second floor loft. The back patio area can seat about 100 under a tent, with additional tents and seating available with prior arrangement. There are also tables and grills scattered throughout the picnic grove. A small kitchen area with commercial freezer and refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, sinks, and counter space is also available. The Chalet also features a large screen TV with cd/dvd/vcr/tape player, indoor and outdoor stone fireplaces, and indoor restrooms. The staff is always on-site throughout the private events, as well. Find out more about renting the Chalet by calling 440-572-9990 (Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Fishing Recreational fishing may be enjoyed
throughout the Park District. An Ohio fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. A variety of fish can be caught, including: bass, trout, walleye, crappie, and bluegill. Major fishing areas include: the Chagrin, Cuyahoga and Rocky rivers, and Hinckley, Judge’s, Ledge, Ranger, Shadow, and Wallace lakes. Cleveland Metroparks has brochures available on warmweather recreation information, entitled Spring/Summer/ Fall Recreation, Fishing Areas in Cleveland Metroparks and the Ledge Pool and Recreation Area publication. The brochures are available at all Park District facilities or by calling 216-635-3200.
Discover the History of Hinckley Reservation on the 2012 Hear Here! Audio Tour June 15 - December 31 • Hinckley Reservation Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Reservation, located in Hinckley Township, is yours to discover when you take part in Hear Here! - An Audio Tour of Cleveland Metroparks! This half-day, self-led tour is perfect for all ages. Pick a morning or afternoon, weekday or weekend, hop in the car, and get ready to tune your radio to 1620 AM at each Hear Here! site for a unique tour of five gems of the “Emerald Necklace.” At each stop, turn off your car engine and tune in to 1620 AM to listen for facts and interesting stories about places like Hinckley Lake, Buzzard Roost, Whipp’s Ledges, Worden Heritage Homestead and Ledges, and learn about Mr. Johnson of Johnson’s Picnic Area. Feel free to customize your tour - stopping at sites in whatever order you like. And, be sure to get out and explore each area after you listen. For more information, call 216-635-3200.
Get With the Program – the Walking Works Program Explore this year’s Walking Works trails. Now through October, hike at least eight of 13 designated Walking Works trails on your own – any time - it’s fun and easy. This year take an easy hike in Bedford, Big Creek, Bradley Woods, Garfield Park, Mill Stream Run and Rocky River reservations. Moderate walkers can hit the trails in Euclid Creek, Hinckley, Ohio & Erie Canal and South Chagrin reservations. Those looking for a difficult hike will appreciate the challenging hikes in Brecksville, North Chagrin and Rocky River reservations. After completing each walk, sign and date your Walking Works form. Complete eight walks and return your form to Cleveland Metroparks to receive this year’s Walking Works shield. Display your shield on your own walking stick or purchase a walking stick at any EarthWords Nature Shop. Want to walk with others while learning about the natural features of the trails? Naturalist-led hikes along the designated trails will be available June through October. Look for naturalist-led walks starting on page 22. For a list of the designated hikes and directions, and to download the Walking Works form check our website at www.clevelandmetroparks.com. Walking Works forms are also available at Cleveland Metroparks Nature Centers. 11
20th Annual Phone Book Recycling Campaign Through September 30, 2012, old phone books can be recycled at the following Cleveland Metroparks locations seven days per week during regular park hours. Phone books only should be placed in the marked collection containers located in the parking lots. Books must be removed from the plastic bags.
PHONE BOOK RECYCLING LOCATIONS Bedford Reservation • Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18753 Egbert Road, Bedford Big Creek Reservation • Snow Road Picnic Area Big Creek Parkway, Parma Heights Brecksville Reservation • Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 9445 Brecksville Road, Brecksville Cleveland Metroparks Zoo • Hippo parking lot 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland Euclid Creek Reservation • Welsh Woods North parking lot Euclid Creek Parkway, South Euclid Garfield Park Reservation • Garfield Park Nature Center Mill Creek Lane, Garfield Heights Huntington Reservation • Overflow parking lot Lake Road, Bay Village Mill Stream Run Reservation • Bonnie Park Picnic Area Valley Parkway, Strongsville North Chagrin Reservation • Parking lot south of park entrance • SOM Center Road, Mayfield Village Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation • CanalWay Center Whittlesey Way, Cuyahoga Heights Rocky River Reservation • Lawrence Grist Mill parking lot Cedar Point Road, North Olmsted South Chagrin Reservation • The Shelterhouse Picnic Area Hawthorn Parkway, Bentleyville For more information about the annual Phone Book Recycling Campaign, log on to the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District’s website at www.cuyahogaswd.org or call 216-443-3749. The campaign is sponsored by the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District in cooperation with Cleveland Metroparks, The Plain Dealer, and AT&T.
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Cleveland Metroparks Kids Club – Membership has its Privileges Kids Club brings kids closer to nature by sharing with them the importance of conservation, education and recreation. Kids can apply what they learn to help preserve Cleveland Metroparks and the environment. Kids, 12 and under, can experience the importance of conservation, education and recreation with activities, exploration and fun experiences yearround in Cleveland Metroparks and the Zoo! A member who receives at least 12 stickers can attend an end-of-the-year party! Kids can enjoy nature hikes throughout Cleveland Metroparks over 22,000 acres, participate in handson activities at the nature centers, special events, behind-the-scene tours, and much more. Plus, during the school year, a club member can win a chance to have an Outdoor Education staff person put on a program for their classmates at their school. For more information and to register, call 216-635-3200 or visit clevelandmetroparks.com
Open House For Homeschoolers Friday, August 31 1 - 3 p.m. North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village Parents and homeschooled children, you are invited to an open house for our Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers program for ages 6 – 12 years. You will be introduced to the naturalist staff, tour the Nature Education Building and get to meet other homeschooled children. Information will be available regarding the upcoming home school year. Light refreshments will be served.
6 - 8 p.m. • Look About Lodge South Chagrin Reservation • Bentleyville Free! ($1 donation welcome) Join us on the west lawn of rustic Look About Lodge for an evening of live music. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, a picnic, and some family and friends for this free concert series. In case of rain, we will move inside. August 5
Lost State of Franklin
Americana
August 12
Chip Ritcher
Kids concert
August19 UpRiver
Celtic, Appalachian mountain music
For more information, call 440-247-7075. Look About Lodge is located at 37374 Miles Road in South Chagrin Reservation, between SOM Center Road/Route 91 and Chagrin River Road in Bentleyville. There is limited parking at Look About Lodge. Overflow parking is available at Chagrin River Road and Sulphur Springs Drive.
Nature . . . a gift to preserve! Would you consider the “gift of nature” if we show you how? Through simple financial planning, you can preserve and protect the natural wonders of Cleveland Metroparks for future generations. And, in many cases, charitable gift planning will allow you to increase your annual income while protecting your assets. To learn more about “giving the gift of nature,” contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, at 216-635-3217 or visit clevelandmetroparks.com and select ‘donate.’ All inquiries are confidential and place you under no obligation. If you have already included Cleveland Metroparks in your charitable plans, the Park District would be honored to include you as a member of its Emerald Necklace Fellowship. Please contact Karen Kannenberg at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com for more information.
ds er The Wonderful i K rn World of Insects Co Insects, they’re everywhere. They inhabit all the continents and roam your backyard. Join our Insect Team and enter the amazing world of insects!
Did you know? • The number of insect species is believed to be between six and ten million. • Insect bodies have three parts, the thorax, abdomen and head. • Insects have two antennae. • Insects have three pairs of legs. • Bees, termites and ants live in well organized social colonies. • Insects are cold blooded. • Most insects hatch from eggs. • Some cicadas can make sounds nearly 120 decibels loud. • Spiders are not insects. • Bees are found on every continent except Antarctica. • Ants leave trails and communicate with each other using pheromones as chemical signals. Unscramble the words to discover what insects could be in your backyard. 1. owlmerma ____________________ 2. uldygab ____________________ 3. rpyinga naismt ____________________ 4. ganrlfoyd ____________________ 5. tan ____________________ 6. beltee ____________________ 7. dcaiac ___________________ 8. sgyyp mtho ____________________ 9. ehyno ebe ____________________ 10. qiooumst ____________________ 11. eltbtyfur ____________________ 12. heuos ylf ____________________ 13. stmritee ____________________ Answers 1. mealworm 2. ladybug 3. praying mantis 4. dragonfly 5. ant 6. beetle 7. cicada 8. gypsy moth 9. honey bee 10. mosquito 11. butterly 12. house fly 13. termites
Look About Lodge Summer Concert Series
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Nature Never Ends I once was asked this question: “If all human presence was removed from this reservation, how long would it take for the forest to take over until it showed no sign of humans ever being there?” It’s a fascinating question to ponder. It was posed to me long before I began working for Cleveland Metroparks, and it would leak into my thoughts as I walked to my office job, picking my way through the weeds pushing up the asphalt in an abandoned parking lot. How long? Maybe the most interesting part of the question is the assumed premise that the forest will indeed take over. Nature has an incredible capacity to adapt, to heal, and to fill empty space with life. A succession of plant communities will grow after any disturbance in the woods, whether it’s the fall of a single, massive beech tree or the smothering of acres with concrete and asphalt. It is the size and degree of disturbance, and its location, that determines the speed and quality of recovery. The single tree in the mature forest will cause rapid growth in alreadypresent saplings and understory plants. Forest wildlife will fill the gap, too, feasting on fresh vegetation and the decaying tree itself. What happens in a larger, deeper disturbance, such as a forest clear-cut, farming, re-routing a stream, a landfill? What happens in places still surrounded and used by people? Again, nature adapts, heals, and living things arrive. It might be chicory or dandelions that begin filling the cracks in the concrete. Later, taller teasels might move in, with phragmites reed grass in the wet spots. Water will still run in the creeks, but it might be muddy and largely lifeless without plants lining the banks. Nature never ends. We need do nothing to “save” nature. But it does change form in response to damage. And it can also be restored to a healthier, more diverse community of living things with a little effort. The changes that have taken place in the West Creek watershed are a case in point. Although much of it is impacted by dense development, largely forgotten and fallow corners in the creek valley remained. These nature nooks, eagerly explored by a generation of neighborhood boys and girls, were protected from further encroachment. A beautiful, diverse and functioning wetland that filters and cleanses water runoff before it enters West Creek was planned, constructed and planted by dozens of students and volunteers. A program to eliminate invasive plants and encourage native species is underway. This is not the end of the West Creek story--it’s just the beginning. I hope you’ll embark with me on a journey of learning, adaptation and healing in the West Creek valley. Debra K. Shankland Naturalist 1 The Watershed Stewardship Center at West Creek will open in late fall this year. Watch the Emerald Necklace for details! 14
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Where, Oh, Where is EarthWords? Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did
you you you you you you you you
know…that EarthWords Nature Shops have a growing presence throughout the park? know…that the first EarthWords Nature Shop opened in the North Chagrin Nature Center over 20 years ago? know…that we were called EarthWords because we were originally a book store? know…that CanalWay Visitor Center opened in 1999 with our second shop? know…that CanalWay Center now rents bikes? know…that Rocky River Nature Center was remodeled in 2000 and added the third EarthWords Shop? know…that Hinckley Lake Boathouse was overhauled this past winter, opening our fourth and largest store? know…that the Farmers Market at Frostville Museum is home to a mini EarthWords every Saturday morning from May through October? Did you know…that Cleveland Metroparks Events have become a favorite setting for EarthWords and our ever-popular T-shirt stamping? Kids of all ages love to design, create and wear a one-of-a-kind tee. Now that you know where we are, please come and enjoy the EarthWords experience!
EarthWords Supports Local Armored Fish LOCATIONS/HOURS 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.
Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store 1 West Drive Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Open daily 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003
Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m. The EarthWords CanalWay shop has been down-sized and will now feature snacks, beverages and Cleveland Metroparks logo items.
Dunkleosteus was a giant, ancient fish that weighed as much as three elephants. It had one of the most powerful bites ever recorded. Speedy, powerful and happy to eat most things, this was the creature to avoid 360 million years ago. Dunkleosteus terrelli was possibly the fiercest and most terrifying creature alive in the Devonian “Age of Fishes.” And he’s ours! The Rocky River Valley is world-renowned for its ancient fossils. Rocky River Nature Center is the home of Dunk, where the remains of the armored fish fossil were unearthed in the reservation’s shale rock. A 20 foot replica of the ancient fish is part of a new, amazing display coming to the nature center this summer. The EarthWords shop, located in the center, is proud to offer a variety of our favorite armored fish items, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, magnets and key chains. Dunkleosteus Replica $9
Shirt of the Month Celebrate Bug City by wearing your Advice from a Ladybug Tee. “Spot new opportunities – Spend time in your garden – Be well-rounded – Enjoy the wonders of nature – Don’t let the small things bug you – Keep family close by – Be simply beautiful” This bright, bold red tee is printed on pre-shrunk, 100% cotton and is available in ladies sizes S –XXL. $18
Visit EarthWords at these August Events August 11 – Bug City at Garfield Park Nature Center* August 19 – Touch-A-Truck at the Strongsville Maintenance Center* August 25 – Snakes, Turtles and Fun! at Look About Lodge* *T-shirt stamping available 15
LEARN WITH THESE “GOLF COURSES" If you have ever thought about playing golf, then Cleveland Metroparks Academy of Golf is for you. Whether you are a beginner or returning to the game, the Academy of Golf offers golf learning opportunities on everything you’ll need to know to step onto a golf course and play with confidence. Look for these upcoming classes:
Beginners – An Introduction to Golf - A hands-on series covers the basics of the full swing, chipping and putting. Basic golf terms, rules and etiquette are covered. Loaner equipment is available. All participants completing the course will be given a pass to a Cleveland Metroparks short course. A maximum of 7 students will be accepted in each class. Students in this class should be beginners to 25 handicap. Date Time
Mon. Aug. 20
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Number of Sessions
5
Location
Washington
Fee
$145
Instructor
Staker
The Golf Swing - The Fundamentals – 500 Series - These hands-on clinics covers aspects of a solid, fundamental golf swing, including grip, set-up and swing. The class will provide general, fundamental and basic instruction useful for players of every skill level, gender and age. A maximum of 7 participants. Wed. Aug 15
6:30 - 8 p.m.
1
Seneca
$35
Taylor
Novice Golf Learn-n-League - 200 - 300 Series - This 6-week adult program combines
instruction and practice (about an hour) followed by playing 9 holes (usually) in a supervised league setting. Each week a different part of the game will be featured. Program is meant for newer players, but not raw beginners. Fee includes green fees, instruction, range balls and hand carts. Call 216-641-1864 for more information. Wed. Aug. 22
9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
6
Washington
$150
Staker
The Short Game - Putting and Chipping – 500 Series - This session reviews basics of successful around the green shots and provides general, fundamental and basic instruction that is useful for players of every skill level, gender and age. A maximum of 7 students per class. Wed. Aug. 29
6:30 - 8 p.m.
1
Seneca
$35
Taylor
Junior Programs Homeschoolers Golf Phys Ed - This 6-week program is designed for home schooled juniors 10 to 15 years of age. The skill level best suited for this class would be in the beginner to intermediate range. The first 2 to 3 weeks will be practice and skill building on all parts of the game. The last 3 to 4 weeks will be playing golf in a supervised setting. The fee includes instruction, range balls, green fees, use of pull carts, and loaner equipment as needed. Call 216-641-1864 for more information. Thu. August 30
1 - 3 p.m.
6
Washington
$100
Staker
Classes fill up early. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for class schedules and to register. For more information, call 440-232-7247.
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Finish Summer in the Swing Fall Tour Tournament Series Two-player Scramble
Moonlight Golf
Saturday, September 29 Big Met Golf Course, Rocky River Reservation
Friday, August 17 • 9 p.m. Mastick Woods • 216-267-5626
$110 per team
Golfers challenge their night vision and play nine holes with a Nitelite golf ball - it glows in the dark! This month, a shotgun start takes players into a night world, with glowing golf balls, tees and greens. Registration is required, and space is limited. The fee is $25 per person. Players should arrive 30 minutes before the listed start time.
Barbour Cup Saturday, October 6 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course, Brecksville Reservation $180 per team (27 holes, includes cart fee)
Cleveland Metroparks Tour Championship Saturday, October 13 Manakiki Golf Course, North Chagrin Reservation
Moonlight Golf continues on: Sept. 28 • Little Met • 7:30 p.m. Oct. 19 • Mastick Woods • 6:45 p.m.
$50 per player (includes cart)
High School/Junior High Golfers CAT Tour (Grades 7 – 12) This four-event tour is open to junior high school golfers looking forward to competing on a high school team or high school golfers currently not playing for their school golf team. Top finishers qualify for the CAT Tour Championship, Sunday, October 7 at Big Met. Regular CAT Tour events: Saturday, August 25, 12:30 p.m. Seneca A - 440-526-0043 Sunday, September 9, 12:30 p.m. Manakiki - 440-942-2500 Sunday, September 16, 12:30 p.m. Seneca B - 440-526-0043 Sunday, September 23, 12:30 p.m. Shawnee Hills - 440-232-7184 Cost is $35 for each event, 7th grade is $25 (9 holes)
Online registration is available at clevelandmetroparks.com. Click on golf and scroll down to tournament registrations. For more information on golf events offered throughout the season, call 440-232-7247. 17
Serious sustainability is at work at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo With an average of 1.2 million visitors annually, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has tremendous potential to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship to the community through compelling exhibits, educational programs and field conservation projects. The Zoo’s mission to be a leader in sustainability carries over into the park’s operation as well, through the implementation of Zoo-wide green practices such as recycling, composting and environmentally conscious exhibit design. In 2011, the Zoo recycled more than 126 tons of material including cardboard, computer equipment, glass, aluminum, assorted metals, paper and phonebooks, plus 37 car batteries, 367 cell phones, 3,150 light bulbs, 1,937 inkjet/toner cartridges, 541 wooden pallets, 185 tires, 519 gallons of vehicle fluids and 636 pairs of athletic shoes.
Zoo News
Through the recycling center inside the Exhibit Hall, the Zoo encourages visitors to bring in their own cell phones, compact fluorescent light bulbs and printer cartridges for recycling. The Zoo also has outdoor collection bins for recycling paper and phonebooks. Recycle bins throughout the park accept aluminum cans and plastic bottles and Cans for Conservation drives throughout the year allow guests to bring larger amounts of cans from home to raise money for local and national conservation efforts. The Zoo also hosts Big Creek clean up and America Recycles Day annually. Joe Yachanin Marketing & Public Relations Specialist
Creature Comforts Saturday, August 11 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Every day the Zoo’s Animal Care staff faces the challenge of caring for thousands of different animals -- from gigantic African elephants to tiny elephant shrews. Creature Comforts is your chance to see some of the more unique enrichment activities keepers use to enhance the lives of the animals and keep them healthy both mentally and physically. Past activities have included papier-mache prey for predators to pounce on, a “beehive” stuffed with treats on a bungee cord for the sloth bear and a puzzle feeder for the octopus to solve. Check clemetzoo.com for more information on which animals will be getting the extra special treatment this year. Presented by Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital with support from Outback Steakhouse. all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Senior Safari
Boo at the Zoo Tickets on Sale
Friday, August 31 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Monday, August 13
Seniors are in the spotlight during Senior Safari when everyone age 55 or better gets free admission to the Zoo! Senior Safari features special activities including fitness demonstrations, health screenings and entertainment. Presented by Discount Drug Mart and Kaiser Permanente.
EdZooCation Calendar Education Programs at the Zoo August Keeper for a Day -- 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily Become part of the specialized care that Zoo animals receive. This is a five hour, hands-on experience you won’t forget. Show Cameo -- 1:30 p.m. daily through September 3, weekends through September 30. Join the cast of Professor Wylde’s Live Animal Show with an on-stage role, then bring your family backstage to meet your animal co-stars. Overnights - All programs run 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. the following morning. It’s a wild overnight experience at Rising Waters Safari Camp available Thursday through Sunday nights until September 8.
To register, call 216-635-3391 or visit clemetzoo.com/ learn.asp.
Advance tickets for the annual family favorite Boo at the Zoo go on sale Monday, August 13. Visit the Zoo’s website, clemetzoo. com, or call the Box Office at 216-6616500 for details and prices. Most nights of last year’s event sold out, so get your tickets early! Boo at the Zoo takes place October 18-21 and 25-28. Presented by Giant Eagle, with support from Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.
Family Discoveries – 9 to 10:30 a.m. August 11 and 19 Bring the entire family for a special Zoo experience featuring hands-on activities and guided tours. Topics vary by date. How Can I Help a Landfill? on August 11 will explain how to reduce, reuse, and recycle, and how to compost to reduce your home’s landfill contribution. Sustainable Living in the 21st Century on August 19 will show how changing some daily habits can have a large impact on the health of the environment. Summer Day Camp – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The wildest camp in town for children ages 5-14 begins its last full week of camp on Monday, August 13. Halfday and extended care options are available. African Art Family Program – 10 a.m. to noon August 18 Work together with a skilled artist from Africa as he guides you through different techniques of simple African crafts. Take home your masterpiece at the end of the day. African Art Program for Adults – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. August 25 and 26 (this is a two-day program) Work with a skilled artist from Africa as he teaches you traditional African art techniques and shares stories of his heritage. Your art will travel home with you at the end of this adventure.
For the most up-to-date Zoo information: clemetzoo.com / 216-661-6500 19
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
As the brilliant summer sun warms our backs and encourages a season of outdoor exploration, join us for a few educational and entertaining programs that are perfect for the blossoming season. Our Summer Activity Guide is brimming with wet, wild and out-of-this-world fun for the whole family – check it out at www.lensc.org or call 440-871-2900 for full program details and registration information.
Family Picnic Night
Friday, August 3 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $7/person; $35/family of 5 or more Join us for a fun-filled family picnic in the park! We’ll provide a picnic dinner, you bring a big blanket to fit your whole family. After the picnic, we’ll meet some animals, take a guided hike and have a campfire! Meet in the field across from the Center. In case of rain, all activities will take place inside the Center. Pre-registration required.
‘Space Voyagers’ Summer Camp
Tuesday – Friday, August 7 - 10 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fee: $400/child, members $350/child (for children who have completed Grades 5 – 8) “Discover the Universe in your own Backyard” as well as the backyards of our neighbors. The future astronaut or rocket scientist in your family will not just build and launch an advanced rocket, but will take two days and travel to the NASA displays at the Great Lakes Science Center AND get a special behind the scenes tour of the Astronomy Department at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Pre-registration required.
Nightfall at the Nature Center: Family Night a la Mode! Wednesday, August 15 6 – 8 p.m. Fee: $7/person; $35/family of 5 or more
The Center exhibits will be lit and ready for a fun-filled evening! See what the animals do after the Center is closed to the public! Encounter mesmerizing wildlife, enjoy a “natural” family activity outside and top it all off with a serving of ice cream! Pre-registration required.
‘The All Night Strut’ at Huntington Playhouse
Thursday, August 30 8 p.m. (refreshments at 6:30 p.m.) Fee: $20/person (tickets on sale at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center) The Center Women’s Board invites you to join them at Huntington Playhouse for a special musical offering. Swing’s the thing--and nowhere more so than in this classy, sassy musical celebration of the 1930s and 1940s. Here is a two act bonanza filled with jazz, blues, bebop and standards from such legendary songwriters as Hoagy Carmichael, Frank Loesser, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Cab Calloway and the Gershwins. (The Playhouse is located at 28601 Lake Road in Bay Village.)
Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs * Twinkle Tots
Monthly SkyQuest: Return to Mars
pictures made out of stars and moving lights in the sky. Children should be able to sit for about 15 minutes. Best for ages 0 – 2.
Sunday Under the Stars
Thursdays & Saturdays • 11 a.m. Saturdays, August 4, 11, 18 and 25 • 1:30 p.m. Fee: $1/person (including infants) Saturdays, August 4 and 18 • 8 p.m. Fee: $3/person This is a program designed for the This month, after traveling through space for the last 8 months, NASA’s latest rover, the Mars toddler in your family. Hear some fun Science Laboratory Curiosity will land on the red planet. The goal of the mission is to determine music and learn what we can see up whether Mars has ever had or still has conditions favorable for life. Join us as we look at what in the sky. Find out that it is fun (not scary!) to be in the dark, because that’s Curiosity might find, how it will find it, and what we currently know about Mars. Recommended for ages 7 and up. when we can see the stars. See some
Stellar Stars
Wednesdays • 11 a.m. Saturdays • Noon Fee: $2/person Grab your passport, blast off and travel through space to explore a new destination in our solar system. Learn about a different picture in the stars each week and take home a coloring page. Complete your passport and receive a special treat! Great for ages 3 - 5.
Sundays • 11 a.m., Noon & 1 p.m. Fee: $2/person Join us for an out-of-this-world experience the whole family can enjoy! We’ll start with a demonstration of how our planetarium really is a “magical” place for our youngest visitors and then talk about a special subject of interest for all ages. We’ll conclude with a look at what’s going on in the sky tonight. Best for ages 2 and up.
Meteor Shower Night
Sunday, August 12 8 p.m., followed by field viewing at 9 p.m. Fee: $3/person Bring the whole family to the planetarium at 8 p.m. for a quick presentation on meteors, including a chance to hold an actual meteorite! Then, head to the field, spread out your blanket and enjoy the show in the sky! Pre-registration required for Planetarium presentation. No registration or fee necessary to just attend sky watching at 9 p.m.
* Doors close promptly at start time. Tickets for all star shows are available at the Welcome Desk 30 minutes before the program begins on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Located at 28728 Wolf Road in Bay Village • 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. 20
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
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August Events by Location
Monthly Morning with the Birds
Cleveland Metroparks is celebrating the “Year of the Pollinator.” Look for this symbol next to Cleveland Metroparks special “Year of Pollinator” related programs and events.
Off-site programs
22 • Urban Explorations: Hike to Westerly Wastewater Treatment Plant 24 • Urban Explorations: Group Plan Buildings 31 • Urban Explorations: Natural Flats
(BeR) Bedford Reservation 5 • Beat the Heat Hike 13 • Woodlands of Bedford: Woodland Ferns Part 1 15 • Puppies in the Park Hike 25 • Summer Stroll 27 • Woodlands of Bedford: Woodland Ferns Part 2
(BrR) Brecksville Reservation 12 • Breakfast in the Park 15 • Last Blast of Summer 15 • Bats: Creatures of the Night 24 • Extreme Hiking
(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 18 • For Women (and Girls) Only 20 • Hidden Story Hike
(CWC) CanalWay Center
Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Off E. 49th St., Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Hts. 216-206-1000 1 - 31 • Hunt of the Month 1 - 31 • Artist’s Display 6 • Stroller School: Birds 7 • 21 • What’s Growing at CanalWay? 10 • CanalWay Sunset Concert - Logan Wells 15 • Bike the Canal 17 • 31 • CanalWay Cart Tours – Southern Route 18 • Acoustic Players Circle 18 • 24 • 25 • CanalWay Cart Tours – Northern Route 20 • Dusk Hike 22 • Hidden Valley Homeschool: Insects 24 • Preschoolers: Playing in the Past 26 • Bird Banding
(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 18 • Things with Wings
(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center
19 • Morning Pontoon Ride on Hinckley Lake
(HuR) Huntington Reservation 18 • Volunteer to Adopt-A- Beach 25 • Campfire at the Beach
(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation 4 - 5 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle 11 • Perseid Meteor Watch 19 • Breakfast in the Park 21 • Hiking for the Young at Heart
(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation 5 • Sunday Bird Walk 11 • Hike for Your Health 19 • Spider Hunt 22 • Mid-Week After Work Hike 24 • Campout in the Park
(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 4 • Dog Hike 4 • Carousel Hike 10 • Naturepiece Theatre: Insect Investigations 10 • Family Friday Night: Evening Animal Watch 12 • Water On the Move 21 • Stroller Science 22 • Trail Trackers: Insect Hunt 24 • Friday Movie Night 26 • As the Worms Squirm 31 • Blue Moon Campfire 31 • Open House for Homeschoolers Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 6 • 20 • Bimonthly Meeting
(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 4 • MAPS Banding Programs 5 • First People in the Valley Hike 17 • Bats Along the Canal 18 • Rails to Trails Walk 26 • Bike to Bacci from Bacci
(RRR) Rocky River Reservation
6 • Books Alive! Rascal 10 • 24 • Cedar Valley Square Dance 18 • Monthly Morning with the Birds Olmsted Historical Society 12 • Festival of the Arts Frostville Museum
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance, Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 4 • Slithering Snakes 11 • Bug City 17 • A Monarch Morning 19 • Mantis Mania 19 • Tour de Necklace - Garfield Park/Washington 25 • Invasive Plant Patrol 26 • Beat the Heat Hike
(HiR) Hinckley Reservation
2 • 31 • Voyageur Full Moon Paddle 11 • Biking the Back Roads - Hinckley Hills and Hollers 18 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle
(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center
Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 44070 440-734-6660 1 - 9/30 • Gallery Wall: Photography of Ron Stasko 4 • Tree Identification – Beginner 6 • 7 • Junior Explorers 8 • 9 • Beginning Explorers – Outdoor Discovery 9 • Inviting the Planet To Dinner: Taste of Ohio 11 • Boy Scout Merit Badge – Fish and Wildlife Management 12 • One Pond Four Seasons 12 • Summer Book Review 13 • 14 • Little Explorers: Spiders 13 • 14 • Junior Explorers 18 • 25 • Herbs: Fragrant and Delicious! 19 • Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center 19 • Nature A La Carte: Poison Ivy 19 • River Poets 19 • Summer Book Review: Northern Farm 25 • Tree Identification – Intermediate 25 • Cinema Saturday Night - Silence of the Bees 26 • School of the Wilds: Monarchs Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association 8 • Monthly Meeting Cuyahoga Astronomical Association 13 • Monthly Meeting Cleveland Fishing Association 20 • Monthly Meeting
(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation
ook About Lodge L Open for scheduled programs. Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91, Bentleyville 440-247-7075 2 • 9 • 16 • Storytime at the Arboretum 4 • Artist in the Park 4 • Weeders in the Wild 5 • The Lodge is Open 5 • Look About Lodge Summer Concert: Lost State of Franklin 11 • Paint the Colors of the Season 11 • Nature Journaling through the Seasons 11 • Second Saturday Storytelling 12 • Look About Lodge Summer Kids Concert: Chip Ritcher 15 • Crayfish Safari 15 • Climb the Creek 18 • Cranberry Baskets 19 • One Trail, Twelve Times 19 • Daring and Dangerous 19 • Look About Lodge Summer Concert: UpRiver 25 • Snakes, Turtles & Fun! 28 • Artist in the Park Cleveland Natural Science Club 18 • Monthly Meeting - Favorite Lighthouse Stories
(WCR) West Creek Reservation
Group Programming For information on group programs, call any Cleveland Metroparks nature or visitor center.
Outdoor Adventures With IGO The Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) offers year-round courses in canoeing, backpacking and more, plus Escapes to Nature throughout the U.S. and Canada. For details, visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.
14 • Ridges and Fields of West Creek 16 • Mysterious Moths
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August
Events Calendar 1 • Wednesday
Cleveland Metroparks Maps Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 16 reservations. Or, call 216-635-3200 and request a Pathfinder Map & Guide.
4 • Saturday
Hunt of the Month
MAPS Banding Programs
By now the baby bats are leaving mom to hunt for bugs on their own. Look around CanalWay Center for the 20 “bats” we have hidden. Then visit the canal at dusk to watch the bats eat bugs over the fields and water. Through August 31. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC
Join us along the Lower 40 Loop Trail as we catch and band migrant birds such as Gray Catbirds and Yellow Warblers on their nesting grounds. The birds are more active in the early morning so the earlier you stop by the better. Canceled if raining. 7 – 11 a.m. OECR Terrain: one hill 216-206-1000
Artist’s Display
Cari Miller likes to make art that makes people smile. Her work is distinguished by its bright colors and simplified, often whimsical images. Miller often uses found objects to create art that is as “green” as it is fun. Through August 31. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC
2 • Thursday Storytime at the Arboretum
Gallery Wall: Ronald Stasko
Fine art photography at its best graces the gallery wall through September 30. Ronald Stasko is a master artist with a camera, capturing light and color, balancing composition and items of interest in his scenic images. On exhibit daily through September 30. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. RRNC
Kids can join a naturalist at the Arboretum in South Chagrin Reservation for a story and some nature-fun. Plan on coming early or staying after for some outdoor play-time with friends. Weather permitting. 11 a.m. SCR The Arboretum Voyageur Full Moon Paddle
This historic program offers three fantastic experiences: An evening paddle in a 34-foot canoe, a history lesson on the Fur Trade, and a unique view of a full moon on Hinckley Lake. You will be hosted by Cleveland Metroparks living history Voyageurs. 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 9 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Ages: individuals, families, and groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530 22
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Tree Identification – Beginner
Want to learn how to identify the trees in your yard or maybe those along your favorite trail? Join Naturalist Valerie Fetzer for an introduction to tree identification. This program will be the first in a series of three. 10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Dog Hike
Bring your best friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. We’ll hike the wooded trails of the North Chagrin Reservation. Dogs must be leashed. 10 – 11:30 a.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, some hills, 2 – 3 miles Artist in the Park
Naturalist-Artist Stefanie Verish will be sketching the scenery at Quarry Rock. Stop by for a look, or bring your
own supplies and join her in an artistic endeavor. Weather permitting. 10 a.m. – noon SCR Quarry Rock Picnic Area Voyageur Canoe Paddle
Join Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters for an hour-long paddle in a BIG canoe. This living history program gives you a chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe, sing and hear tales from fur trade men of long ago. A perfect program for those who seek historic adventure! 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. MSRR Wallace Lake Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530
Carousel Hike
As a carousel goes up and down, so will we go up and down the hills of North Chagrin Reservation’s trails. Get ready to surround yourself with the sights and sounds of summer on this invigorating hike. 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: dirt trails, hills, 4 miles Weeders in the Wild
The woodland around Look About Lodge is riddled with Japanese barberry. Lend a hand in restoring this natural area by digging and disposing of this invasive plant. Bring work gloves and a shovel. 1 – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 14 years to adult Slithering Snakes
Come to Garfield Park Nature Center to learn all about snakes and then go on a snake safari. If we are lucky, we may even meet a snake or two along our way! 2 – 3:30 p.m. GPNC Terrain: mostly paved, some hills, 1.2 miles
5 • Sunday Beat the Heat Hike
Enjoy the shade of the forest and the sound of tumbling water on this morning hike through Bedford Reservation. 8 – 10 a.m. BeR Broadway trailhead Terrain: moderate 216-341-3152 Sunday Bird Walk
August brings the end of the breeding season and the very beginning of bird migration. Join us as we head to the swamp searching for birds along the way. Some binoculars will be available to borrow. 8 – 10 a.m. NCR Rogers Road parking lot Ages: adults & teens Terrain: some off trail, 2 miles First People in the Valley Hike
Take a long, easy morning hike on the towpath. Along the way learn about various Native American sites that dot the Cuyahoga Valley. View prehistoric artifacts at
Canal Visitor Center, then hike back. 9:30 a.m. – noon OECR West Canal Road Trailhead Ages: 10 and older (under 16 with adult) Terrain: blacktop and crushed limestone; mostly flat, 5.5 miles Registration required 216-206-1000 The Lodge is Open
Ever wondered what Look About Lodge is all about? Come on in and take a look around. The wooded setting and log architecture keep the Lodge cool even on a hot August day. Noon – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Summer Concert: Lost State of Franklin
Lost State of Franklin showcases a variety of musical genres such as jazz, country, rockabilly, bluegrass and more. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, picnics welcome! Free, but $1 donation welcome. 6 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge
6 • Monday Stroller School: Birds
Bring your little one and their curiosity! This month we will use our eyes and ears to learn about different kinds of birds. If you don’t join us, you’ll “egret” it! Children must be in a stroller. In case of rain, we will stay indoors. 10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 Junior Explorers
We will explore the forest paths, meadowlands and pond edges for animals that fly -- from butterflies to birds to bats in this two-day program. 10 a.m. – noon RRNC Ages: 8 – 9 years Terrain: some steps,1.5 miles Register beginning July 18 440-734-6660
Voyageur Canoe Paddle (see 8/4 for details)
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Books Alive! Rascal
Sterling North’s classic story of a boy and his pet raccoon will come to life in this program with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt. Reading the book beforehand is recommended. 4 – 6 p.m. RRR Lagoon Picnic Shelter Ages: 8 – 12 years Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile Register beginning July 18 440-734-6660 Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East
Onesies or Nature’s Portraits. Just one subject…but it’s the star of the show. Bring in three images to discuss the hows, whys and backgrounds. 8 – 10 p.m. NCNC
7 • Tuesday What’s Growing at CanalWay?
See our newly planted butterfly, container, shade, and vegetable gardens. Learn about the plants and how you can help us maintain them. If you would like to help regularly, we can get you on your way to becoming a registered volunteer. 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. CWC Ages: 16 years - adult
experiences, getting answers to questions and comparing what they are seeing in their hives. Tap into the hands-on knowledge of your beekeeping community. 7 – 9 p.m. RRNC
9 • Thursday Inviting the Planet to Dinner: A Taste of Ohio
Join local Eco-Chef Rae Endreola for a scrumptious taste of Ohio-raised and made artisan foods that we have featured in past programs. This entertaining meal, served outside near the Rocky River, will be one to remember. 7 – 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Fee: $50 (full meal) Register beginning July 19 Beginning Explorers (see 8/8 for details) Storytime at the Arboretum (see 8/2 for details)
Junior Explorers (see 8/6 for details)
8 • Wednesday Beginning Explorers – Outdoor Discovery
Join us for this two-day program that will be filled with exploration and discovery. We will search the forest, ponds, and river for the creatures that make the Rocky River Valley their home. 10 a.m. – noon RRNC Ages: 6 – 7 years Terrain: hills and steps, 2 miles Register beginning July 19 440-734-6660 Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association
Tonight, learn to prepare your hives for the winter, followed by group discussion. Members and guests may share their beekeeping
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
10 • Friday Naturepiece Theatre: Insect Investigations
Help the Naturepiece Theatre puppets solve a mystery while learning about some local insects. After the show we’ll make our own bug boxes and then head outside in search of six-legged critters. 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: 6 years & under with adult Terrain: level, 0.5 mile Register beginning August 1 440-473-3370 Family Friday Night: Evening Animal Watch
As we sit on the marsh deck and watch the sunset, the animals you’ll see will change as some become active while other retire for the night. 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: level, paved, 0.5 mile CanalWay Sunset Concert Logan Wells
Back by popular demand, Logan Wells brings her clear strong voice again to CanalWay Center. This artist has been crooning in the
Cleveland area for many years with Patsy Cline songs and country tunes. Come hear for yourself why she has a great following. Bring a sit-upon. 7:30 – 9 p.m. CWC Cedar Valley Square Dance
Grab a partner or join another solo dancer to do-si-do on the grounds of Frostville Museum. Round and line dances for everyone make this a terrific event for family, friends and neighbors as Frank Koenig calls the squares and teaches the moves. Refreshments available. 7:30 – 9 p.m. RRR Frostville Museum 440-734-6660
11 • Saturday Paint the Colors of the Season
Experience nature as it shifts with the season. We will sketch the same subject at the same location each month throughout the year. Bring your own art supplies, or call by August 9 to reserve supplies to borrow. Digital cameras recommended. Dress for the weather. 9 a.m. – noon SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 14 years – adult 440-247-7075
Second Saturday Storytelling
“Not your usual storytellers,” said a visitor, recommending Sean Hensley and Amy Frank -- and we agree. Their stories, some original, some adapted, touch mind, heart, and funny bone. These seldom seen storytellers are not to be missed – and YOU can share a tale after refreshments too. 7:30 – 9 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge 440-734-6660 Bug City
11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. GPNC (See page 8 for details)
12 • Sunday Breakfast in the Park
Join us for a hike to Deer Lick Cave while our volunteers prepare a delicious hot breakfast that we’ll eat upon our return. 8 – 10 a.m. BrR Oak Grove Picnic Area Terrain: hilly, moderate, 1 mile Register beginning August 1 440-526-1012 Festival of the Arts Frostville Museum
Biking the Back Roads – Hinckley Hills and Hollers
Starting at the Hinckley Lake Spillway parking lot, we will ride through the countryside learning fascinating stories of those who came before us. A hike to Worden’s Ledges is included. This ride is challenging, but the beauty of the landscape is well worth it! 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. (30 miles) HiR Hinckley Lake Spillway Terrain: challenging hills (30 miles) Registration required 440-786-8530 Boy Scout Merit Badge - Fish and Wildlife Management
Join Naturalist Valerie Fetzer to complete most requirements for your merit badge. We will learn about fish and wildlife management and
the impact that it has had on various species throughout Ohio. We will cover all requirements except 5 and 8. 10 – 3 p.m. RRNC Register beginning July 20 440-734-6660 Perseid Meteor Watch
Join Naturalist John Miller to view the annual Perseid meteors as they race across the sky. Bring a blanket or lounge chair to lay back and enjoy the show. 10:30 p.m. – midnight MSRR Royalview Picnic Area Terrain: flat, damp grass Registration begins August 1 440-526-1012 Nature Journaling through the Seasons
We will take note of the subtle and not-so-subtle changes as the seasons take their turn and reflect on our observations in a nature journal of
our own creation. You may want to bring your camera and a pair of binoculars. 1 – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years – adult Fee: $20 (first time participants only) Terrain: some hills, slowpaced Register by August 8 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Hike for Your Health
Hiking from Squire’s Castle to Strawberry Pond will get your heart rate up, but coming back it’ll be a downhill trip. You’ll get to see the castle and the wildlife at Strawberry Pond. 1:30 – 3 p.m. NCR Squire’s Castle parking lot Terrain: steep hill, 2.5 miles
A festival of arts and crafts with 3 stages of musical performances, student art displays and many vendors. Fun for all ages. Food, ice cream and beverages are served by the Olmsted Historical Society. All buildings will be open. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. RRR Frostville Museum Kim Wenger wengerk@northolmsted.com 440-716-4118. One Pond, Four Seasons
Join Naturalist Joni Norris for a walk around West Channel Pond noting the birds, flowers, amphibians, and fish that utilize our pond. We will meet again this fall to record seasonal changes. Noon – 1 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Terrain: some stairs, 1 mile
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Water on the Move
This hike will have you traveling down Buttermilk Falls creek. Once down the steep hillside, there will be shale falls to challenge you. The reward is a chance to see the fish, frogs and other animals that reside in this cool ravine. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, 8 years & over with adult Terrain: uneven, wet, 3 miles Summer Book Review
Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the Rocky River Readers for a review of Bill McKibben’s eye opening book The End of Nature. Haven’t read the book? You’ll enjoy the discussion - listeners welcome. 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Look About Lodge Summer Kids Concert: Chip Ritcher
Bring your kids, grandkids and any other kids in your life to this evening of music, laughter and fun. Don’t have a child to bring along? No problem. This show is for children of ALL ages. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, picnics welcome! Free, but $1 donation welcome. 6 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge
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13 • Monday Little Explorers: Spiders
Who’s scared of spiders? Not us! Come down to the nature center to discover how beautiful and amazing these hunters can be. We’ll read a spider story, go for a hike, and finish up with a craft. 10 – 11:30 a.m. RRNC Ages: 3 – 5 with adult Terrain: stairs, 0.5 mile Register beginning July 24 440-734-6660 Junior Explorers
What is living in the water? Discover the wonderful aquatic creatures that live in the pond. Naturalist Min Keung will guide you as we use nets for catch and release. Wear wettable shoes. 1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: 8 – 9 years Terrain: some stairs, 1 mile Register beginning July 25 440-734-6660 Woodlands of Bedford: Woodland Ferns Part 1
On this fern foray we will locate species such as Ebony Spleenwort, Maidenhair Fern, Goldie’s Wood Fern and Broad Beech Fern. This hike lead by Volunteer Naturalist
Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Fred Losi is a joint outing with the Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio. 6 – 8 p.m. BeR Tinker’s Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook Terrain: moderate, some hills, 2 miles 216-341-3152
trails of this suburban green space. 9 – 11 a.m. WCR Center Park on Park Drive off of State Road Ages: Adults, young adults Terrain: moderate, 2.5 miles 216-341-9225
Cuyahoga Astronomical Association
What’s flying in the air? Discover beautiful butterflies with Naturalist Min Keung as we use nets for catch and release. 1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: 8 – 9 years Terrain: some stairs, 1 mile Register beginning July 25 440-734-6660
Speaker Bob Pence doesn’t mean “Oh be a fine girl and kiss me,” literally. This phrase relates to the HertzsprungRussell (H-R) Diagram. Learn how this tool, used in science and astronomy to chart magnitudes, temperature and spectra, aids in understanding the stars you see. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. RRNC
14 • Tuesday Ridges and Fields of West Creek
The forest ridges, meadows, and riparian corridors of West Creek provide a refuge for songbirds, reptiles and amphibians, and diverse plant life. Join naturalist Jen Brumfield on a ridge-top walk of scenic hillsides and back
Junior Explorers
Little Explorers: Spiders (see 8/13 for details)
15 • Wednesday Last Blast of Summer
Hey Kids! Join Naturalist Jenny McClain for a fun morning in the park exploring the creek and making your own mini-raft to float down the Chippewa Creek. Bring wettable shoes and a water bottle. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. BrR Plateau Picnic Area Ages: 7 & up Register beginning August 1 440-526-1012
Puppies in the Park Hike
Come with your well-behaved four-legged friend and meet Naturalist Beth Whiteley as we hike through beautiful Bedford Reservation. Make sure to bring water for you and your faithful friend! 10 a.m. – noon BeR Bridal Veil Falls Parking Lot Terrain: some paved, small hills, 3.6 miles 216-341-3152 Crayfish Safari
Kids and kids at heart can join a naturalist and search for crayfish in the Chagrin River. Prepare to get wet. 1 – 2:30 p.m. SCR Jackson Field Terrain: flat, 0.5 mile Bike the Canal
Join Jill and Doug for a bicycle adventure from our CanalWay Center to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s Canal Center. There will be stops along the way to discuss the history of the canal and the wildlife that calls it home. 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: Towpath Trail, one hill, 12 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 Climb the Creek
Climb up Sulphur Springs Creek over beautiful waterfalls and through rocky ravines. Sturdy, wettable shoes are a must. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. SCR Sulphur Springs Picnic Area Ages: 10 years – adult Terrain: challenging, wet, climbing, 2 miles Bats: Creatures of the Night
Bats are often misunderstood and feared, however, they are extremely beneficial. Join us to learn more about bats and what is causing a huge decline in their populations. 8 – 9 p.m. BrR Oak Grove Picnic Area 440-526-1012
16 • Thursday Mysterious Moths
Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a fun night’s adventure seeking seldom seen moths. “Bait juice” (beer and sugar) will lure 30+ species up close for us to enjoy. From sphinx moths to tiger moths, join us in discovering one of the favorite hobbies in the science world: “mothing!” Bring a flashlight. 8 – 10 p.m. WCR Center Park on Park Drive off of State Road Ages: adults & families Terrain: moderate, some offtrail 216-341-9225 Storytime at the Arboretum (see 8/2 for details)
17 • Friday A Monarch Morning
As monarch butterflies are making their way south for winter, make your way out to the nature center. We will enjoy a story all about monarchs, a craft, and take a short walk to see if we can find any of these beautiful butterflies. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Ages: 3-5 with adult CanalWay Cart Tours – Southern Route
For those who have been on our northern tour and want to see more of the reservation, this cart tour takes you south along the towpath. We will focus on the natural and cultural history of the area. Each tour accommodates seven passengers. 10:30 a.m. or noon CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning August 1 216- 206-1000 Bats Along the Canal
Bring your family and friends to the Ohio & Erie Canal to watch bats dine on bugs. Grab a lawn chair and join us as we discuss the life of bats. We will play the game Bat/ Moth and even make a bat flyer to take home. 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. OECR Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000
18 • Saturday Monthly Morning with the Birds
Join Naturalist Ken Gober to discover the variety of avian life in the habitats around Rocky River Nature Center. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Earn credit toward your Walking Works shield. 8 – 10 a.m. RRR Rocky River Nature Center parking lot Terrain: some stairs, 2 miles Cranberry Baskets
When finished this berry basket will measure 12” diameter and 8” high with a swivel handle. It is an intermediate level basket. 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 12 years – adult Fee: $40 Register by August 8 440-247-7075 or LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com Things with Wings
We’ll be looking for things with wings on this hike. It should be easy to hear and see local birds, but insects such as bees and dragonflies may be a challenge to find. Earn credit toward your Walking Works shield. 10 – 11:30 a.m. ECR Welsh Woods parking lot Terrain: slight hill, 2.5 miles 440-473-3370 For Women (and girls) Only
Please join Jenny McClain for a special For Women Only hike! Bring your favorite girl along this time to explore the forests of Brecksville and enjoy nature’s splendor. Earn credit toward your Walking Works shield. 10 a.m. – noon BNC Ages: adult women and girls 8 & up Terrain: moderate, hills, 2.5 miles
CanalWay Cart Tours – Northern Route
Join us for one of the cart tours focusing on the natural and cultural history of the northern Cuyahoga River valley. Each tour accommodates seven passengers and lasts one hour. 10:30 a.m. or noon CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning August 1 216- 206-1000 Voyageur Canoe Paddle
Join Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters for an hour-long paddle in a BIG canoe. This living history program gives you a chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe, sing and hear tales of fur trade men of long ago. A perfect program for those who seek historic adventure! 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Volunteer to Adopt-A-Beach
A great hands-on way for businesses, schools, community groups, families and individuals to care for our Great Lake! Adopters remove litter and conduct science-based beach health assessments. Data collected is used to evaluate existing conditions and make a change for the better. 1 – 2:30 p.m. HuR Huntington Beach Water Tower Terrain: stairs, sand, 0.25 mile 440-331-8111 Acoustic Players Circle
Join this well established player’s circle to swap songs, chords and styles of playing. Professional abilities not needed, just a desire to have fun and learn from fellow musicians. Listeners are always welcome. Theme is Sunny Days...or Not. 1 – 3 p.m. CWC
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Rails to Trails Walk
Favorite Lighthouse Series
Breakfast in the Park
The Village of Cuyahoga Hts. has constructed a new trail at Bacci Park as part of the Rails to Trails movement. Walk the trail with a Cleveland Metroparks interpreter to explore the nature and history of this newly accessible area. 2 – 3 p.m. OECR Bacci Park Trailhead Terrain: flat, blacktop surface, 1 mile
Photographer and storyteller Denny Reiser presents Favorite Lighthouse Stories. Don’t miss this informative and entertaining Cleveland Natural Science Club program. 7:30 p.m. SCR Look about Lodge
Volunteer cooks will scramble up a delicious breakfast while visitors hike. What interesting discoveries will we make near the Bonnie Park Picnic Area? Find out your food item(s) when you register and remember to bring along reusable table settings for each person. 9 – 10:30 a.m. MSRR Bonnie Park Picnic Area Terrain: mostly flat, 1 mile Register beginning August 1 440-734-6660
Herbs: Fragrant and Delicious!
Stop by the herb garden anytime during the hours below to smell, taste and learn about herbs and the benefits of having a fresh herb garden of your own. 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults
19 • Sunday Morning Pontoon Ride on Hinckley Lake
Join us for a leisurely pontoon ride on Hinckley Lake. We’ll search for the animals that live in and around the lake. 8 – 9 a.m. or 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Register starting August 1 440-526-1012
Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center
Better than binoculars! See intricate details of birds as we capture and band birds near the feeders. Learn about bird banding, an essential tool for studying our feathered friends. Program will be cancelled during rain. Drop in any time between the hours below. 9:30 a.m. – noon RRNC
Tour de Necklace – Garfield Park/Washington
This ride starts at Garfield Park Nature Center and will take us to beautiful Mill Creek Falls, on Morgana Trail, to Washington Reservation and back again. 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. GPNC Garfield Park Nature Center 17 miles Registration required 440-786-8530 River Poets
Join Naturalist Joni Norris as we read outstanding nature poets. If you are inclined, please bring a sample of your own poetry to share with others. Several examples of nature poems will be provided. Noon – 1 p.m. RRNC One Trail, Twelve Times
Seasons come and go but do we really pay attention to nature’s changing landscape? Walk with Naturalist Barb Holtz to discover how the plant and animal life on one trail transforms over the course of a year. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. SCR Quarry Rock Picnic Area Terrain: hilly, 2 miles Mantis Mania
Join a naturalist as we take a quest through the meadow in search of the majestic praying mantis. Nets and magnifiers will be provided. 2 – 3:30 p.m. GPNC Summer Book Review
Join Naturalist Joni Norris and The Rocky River Readers as they review Henry Beston’s sheer pleasure prose, Northern Farm A Chronicle of Maine. Haven’t read the book? You’ll enjoy the discussion - listeners welcome. 2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Nature A La Carte: Poison Ivy
Stop by our information table near the front of the nature center to finally learn all the forms of poison ivy and how to avoid it! Stop by between the hours below. 2 – 4:30 p.m. RRNC 28
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Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Daring and Dangerous
This year-long series will follow the example of the books, The Daring Book for Girls and The Dangerous Book for Boys. This month we’ll fish for our dinner and press flowers. Location of program will be given when you register. 3 – 6 p.m. SCR Ages: 7 – 12 years with adult Fee: $12 per child, $5 per adult Register by August 15 44-247-7075 Look About Lodge Summer Concert: UpRiver
Enjoy the folk music of rural America as well as the stories and legends UpRiver weaves through their performance. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, picnics welcome! Free, but $1 donation welcome. 6 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge
Cleveland Fishing Association
Join experienced anglers for tips, techniques and equipment to lead to successful fishing forays in river and lake habitats. 7 – 9 p.m. RRNC Heroes on Horseback – the Ride of the Pony Express
Join Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East and Karen Beck as she retraces the Pony Express route through our wildest west. 8 – 10 p.m. NCNC
21 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart
Today we will share the path with the mountain bikes on
Cleveland Metroparks newest trail. 9:30 a.m. – noon MSRR Royalview Picnic Area Terrain: hills, narrow trail, 5 – 6 miles 440-526-1012 Stroller Science
Bring your little ones to experience the wonders of nature through their senses. We’ll also learn how animals use their senses and we’ll look for some on our walk. 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: easy, paved, 0.5 mile
22 • Wednesday Urban Explorations: Hike to Westerly Wastewater Treatment Plant
Hike with Doug Kusak to our tour of the Westerly Wastewater Treatment Plant. It’s a walk flush with history en route to learning the history of your flush. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Ages: adult with photo ID Fee: $5 (includes use of tour guide system) Terrain: pavement, gravel, and NEORSD plant, 3 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000
What’s Growing at CanalWay? (see 8/7 for details)
Spider Hunt
Join Naturalist Jeff Riebe on an evening hunt for one of the largest spiders in Ohio, the chocolate-brown fishing spider. Bring a flashlight, wettable shoes and clothes and a sense of adventure! 7 – 9 p.m. NCR Squire’s Castle parking lot Terrain: wet, rocky, uneven, 2 – 2.5 miles Touch-a-Truck (see page 2 for details)
20 • Monday Hidden Story Hike
Join Naturalist John Miller for a late summer walk through the Tall Grass Prairie. Our emphasis will be the beautiful flowers and pollinators. Earn credit toward your Walking Works shield. 9 – 11 a.m. BNC Terrain: flat, wet grass, 2 miles Dusk Hike
Join us on this late summer evening along the canal. We will be looking for some crepuscular animals, the ones that are most active at dawn and dusk. Come see what goes on along the canal at night. 7 – 8 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, one hill 29
Trail Trackers: Insect Hunt
Mid-Week After Work Hike
Preschoolers: Playing in the Past
Today we’re on an insect safari. We’ll explore the different groups of insects then go on a hunt through the meadows around the nature center. Wonder what we’ll see? Long pants and sneakers recommended. 10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. NCNC Ages: 3 years – K with adult Terrain: uneven, tall grass, 0.5 mile Register beginning August 1 440-473-3370
There’s no better way to unwind after a long day at the job than with an invigorating hike on the trails at North Chagrin Reservation. Today we’ll trek the White Pine and Scenic Loop trails enjoying the cool shade of the forest. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: dirt trails, hills, stairs
What did kids do for fun long ago? What toys did they have? What games did they play? Find out at this end-ofsummer play day! 10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000
Hidden Valley Homeschool: Insects
Join Naturalist Pam Taylor along deer paths and social trails. We will journey through the forest of Brecksville Reservation along the road less traveled. Be prepared for muddy areas and creek crossings today! 9 a.m. – noon BrR Oak Grove Picnic Area Terrain: hills, creek crossings, 6 – 7 miles 440-526-1012
This afternoon we will learn all the parts an animal needs to be considered an insect. Then we will take our skills outside and see what bugs we can catch! 1 – 2 p.m. CWC Ages: 6 – 12 years Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000
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24 • Friday Extreme Hiking
Emerald Necklace, August 2012
Urban Explorations: Group Plan Buildings
Ever wish your leaders had a clearer plan? Doug Kusak takes a step back to the early 1900s, when Cleveland’s 1903 Group Plan was one of the most complete civiccenter plans for a major city. 10 a.m. – noon Ages: 8 years – adult (under 18 with adult) Fee: $5 (includes use of tour guide system) Terrain: paved, some steps Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000
Campout in the Park
Have you ever dreamed of camping out in North Chagrin Reservation? Now it’s your chance to make this dream come true. We hope you can join us! More information about the campout will be given at time of registration. 6:30 p.m. – 8 a.m. NCR Ages: 6 years & over with adult Fee: $5 Terrain: moderate, 2 miles Register August 1 – 20 440-473-3370 Friday Movie Night
Tonight’s feature is from the Life in the Undergrowth series focusing on the “super societies” of the incredible, but rarely seen world of invertebrates. These creatures may be small, but they live life on a grand scale. 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. NCNC
CanalWay Cart Tours – Northern Route (see 8/18 for details) Cedar Valley Square Dance (see 8/10 for details)
25 • Saturday
mallow roast as the fire burns down to embers. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on. 8 – 9 p.m. HuR Huntington Beach 440-734-6660 CanalWay Cart Tours – Northern Route (see 8/18 for details)
Summer Stroll
Join Naturalist Natalie Moore for this fun hike into Bedford Reservation. Meet at Egbert Picnic Area, and then travel into the woods along Tinker’s Creek as we search for the sights and sounds of summer. 10 – 11 a.m. BeR Terrain: moderate, approx. 1 mile 216-341-3152 Tree Identification – Intermediate
Already familiar with basic tree identification? Maybe you would like to learn a few challenging trees. This program is for you. Join Naturalist Valerie Fetzer for the second program in a series of three. We will discuss tips for identifying the less obvious. 10 – 11 a.m. RRNC Invasive Plant Patrol
Wild grapevines are invading Garfield Park! Bring your pruners and gloves and help us cut these vines that often cause tree damage by breaking limbs and even uprooting trees. Long sleeves are recommended. 10 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC
Herbs: Fragrant and Delicious! (see 8/18 for details) Snakes, Turtles & Fun! (see page 8 for details)
26 • Sunday Beat the Heat Hike
Get your exercise in early! We’ll try to stay under the shade of the trees as we enjoy the sights and sounds of a morning in Garfield Park Reservation. 7:30 – 9 a.m. GPNC Terrain: moderate, some hills Bird Banding
Learn about bird banding an essential tool for learning about our feathered friends. You can see the intricate details of the birds that we capture, band an release at the feeders. Drop in any time, however program will be cancelled if raining. 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. CWC Bike to Bacci from Bacci
Campfire at the Beach
Doug Kusak leads a moderate pace bike ride from Bacci Park, through Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, up to and through the Morgana Run Trail, over to Mill Creek Falls, and back to Bacci. Helmet required. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. OECR Ages: 12 years – adult (under 18 with adult) Fee: $5 (includes use of tour guide system) Terrain: paved trail, large hills, city streets, 10 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000
We will build a fire near the water and enjoy an evening at the beach at Huntington Reservation. A few stories and songs will end with a marsh-
Do worms fascinate you? Did you know that they are great recyclers? Come meet
Cinema Saturday Night – Silence of the Bees
In the winter of 2006, millions of bees vanished from their hives without a trace. Join researchers as they track the clues to discover why honeybees are dying in record numbers and how to stop the epidemic before it spreads further. Doors open at 7 p.m. 7:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults, older students
As the Worms Squirm
the worms at North Chagrin Nature Center’s compost bin and learn about how you can create your own bin to help you recycle food scraps. 2 – 3 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, families School of the Wilds: Monarchs
Join Naturalist Deb Marcinski to learn more about the fascinating life of monarch butterflies. One generation of this amazing insect migrates to Mexico! Get a monarch natural history lesson, then head out with nets to get closer to this winged wonder. 2 – 5 p.m. RRNC Terrain: uneven meadow, thorns, .5 mile
27 • Monday Woodlands of Bedford: Woodland Ferns Part 2
On this outing we will focus on Bulblet Fern, Long Beech Fern and plants such as Mountain Maple, Canada Yew and Red Elderberry. We will explore areas very difficult to traverse below tall sandstone cliffs. This hike lead by Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi is a joint outing with the Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio. 6 – 8 p.m. BeR Willis Picnic Area Terrain: rugged, very difficult; strenuous. 216-341-3152
28 • Tuesday Artist in the Park
Naturalist-Artist Stefanie Verish will be sketching the scenery at Quarry Rock. Stop by for a look, or bring your own supplies and join her in an artistic endeavor. Weather permitting. Noon – 2 p.m. SCR Quarry Rock Picnic Area
gap between local history and nature making a comeback. 1 – 3 p.m. Ages: 8 years – adult (under 18 with adult) Fee: $5 (includes use of tour guide system) Terrain: city streets, 2 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 Blue Moon Campfire
Each new month brings us a new full moon. August has two! Join us to celebrate Augusts’ second full moon with a night hike, campfire and roasting marshmallows. If it’s a clear night we’ll get a close-up look at the blue moon. 8 – 9:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, families Terrain: easy, 1 – 1.5 miles Open House for Homeschoolers (See page 12 for details) Voyageur Full Moon Paddle (see 8/2 for details) CanalWay Cart Tours – Southern Route (see 8/17 for details)
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31 • Friday Urban Explorations: Natural Flats
Spend an enjoyable afternoon hiking in the Flats with Cultural History Interpreter Doug Kusak and Naturalist Jill Hauger. We’ll bridge the
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4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY
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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 Office of the Executive Director 216-635-3214 Office of the Treasurer 216-635-3231 Human Resources 216-635-3228 Marketing 216-635-3268 Planning/Engineering 216-635-3237 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3200 Volunteer Services 216-635-3258
Ranger Headquarters Ranger Chief 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 Director 216-635-3330 Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-635-3331 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3338 School Group Reservations 216-635-3308 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3389 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421
Winter Recreation 216-635-3200
Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990
Golf
Golf Tee Reservations (24 hours) and directions, hours, fees etc. 216-635-3673 clevelandmetroparks.com Golf Services – for general course info and inquires 440-232-7247 Big Met Golf Course 4811 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course 18599 Old Lorain Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-941-9672 Manakiki Golf Course 35501 Eddy Road North Chagrin Reservation Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: Sammy’s of Manakiki 440-946-1140 Mastick Woods Golf Course 19900 Puritas Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-267-5626 Food Service/Catering: Eagle’s Nest Cafe 216-267-5626 Seneca Golf Course 975 Valley Parkway Brecksville Reservation Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Food Service/Catering: Back 9 Grill 440-546-7797 Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18753 Egbert Road Bedford Reservation Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Double Bogey Grille 440-786-7587 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555 Washington Golf Course 3841 Washington Park Blvd. Washington Reservation 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Education Administration 216-341-9225 Institute of the Great Outdoors 216-341-1704 Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530 Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530 West Creek Reservation 216-341-9225 Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010
Outdoor Education Facilities CanalWay Center E. 49th Street entrance Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-1012 Garfield Park Nature Center 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Park Reservation Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 North Chagrin Nature Center Sunset Lane Entrance North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 John J. Donnelly Rocky River Nature Center 24000 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge 37374 Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 South Chagrin Reservation 440-247-7075 EarthWords Nature Shops CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 Hinckley Lake Boathouse and Store Hinckley 330-278-2160 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 NatureTracks Education Unit/EcoExplorers 216-341-1707 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-871-WILD
Boating Emerald Necklace Marina 1500 Scenic Park Drive Rocky River Reservation Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Sweetwater Landing 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Boathouse West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Wallace Lake Off Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Quarry Rock Café
Swimming
440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village Ledge Pool and Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café
Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs Achievement Centers for Children Camp Cheerful 440-238-6200 Mill Stream Run Reservation BAYarts Huntington Reservation 440-871-6543 www.bayarts.net Vento 440-835-4530 Brecksville Historical Society Brecksville Reservation 440-526-7165 Brecksville Stables Brecksville Reservation 440-526-6767 www.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 Hinckley Historical Society Hinckley Reservation 330-278-3159 Huntington Playhouse Huntington Reservation 440-871-8333 www.huntingtonplayhouse.com Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Intergrove Lodge 1-800-852-4474 www.gsneo.org Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Huntington Reservation 440-871-2900 www.lensc.org Olmsted Historical Society Rocky River Reservation 216-501-3345 www.olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides) www.valleyriding.org
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.