Emerald Necklace - August 2013

Emerald Necklace

August ‘13 Vol. 62 #8

Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events

Contents Features 3 NatureTracks and Eco Explorers Bringing the Parks to the People 18 The Stink of Nature

Columns 4 Notes from the Field 5 Naturalist’s Almanac

In Addition 2 New Lakefront Reservation 6 Inside the Emerald Necklace 14 Academy of Golf 15 Finish Summer in the Swing 16 Zoo News 22 Events by Location 23 Events Calendar 32 Directory

Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:

Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Marjorie Thomas Editor

Eriepro ltd.

Graphic Design

RR Donnelley Printing

Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com.

Board of Park Commissioners Debra K. Berry Bruce G. Rinker President Vice-President Vice-President

Brian M. Zimmerman

Chief Executive Officer

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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On June 6, 2013 Cleveland Metroparks assumed management of six Lakefront State properties which include Edgewater Park, E. 55th St. Marina, Gordon Park, Euclid Beach, Villa Angela and Wildwood.

Euclid Beach, Villa Angela and Wildwood will become an extension of Euclid Creek Reservation, while Edgewater Park, E. 55th St. Marina and Gordon Park will form the new Lakefront Reservation, adding another gem to the “Emerald Necklace.”

The City of Cleveland will continue to own the six properties, leasing the 511 acres to Cleveland Metroparks who will manage and enhance the parks. The final agreement gives the Park District a 99-year lease on the 14 miles of lakefront property at a cost of $1 a year, and three years to spend the $14 million in state funds on park improvements.

For the balance of the 2013 season, the goal of Cleveland Metroparks will be to provide a safe, clean environment while evaluating oportunities for future enhancements and programming.

All photos by Cleveland Metroparks photo archive unless otherwise noted.

Dan T. Moore

New Lakefront Reservation Adding to the “Emerald Necklace”

Emerald Necklace, August 2013

Cleveland Metroparks continues to take a proactive approach to restoring and preserving park space.

With the new Lakefront Reservation and the addition to Euclid Creek Reservation, Cleveland Metroparks is looking to the future, for people and for land conservation while filling in the missing links of the “Emerald Necklace.”

NatureTracks and Eco Explorers Bringing the Parks to the People “Bringing the parks to the people.” That is the mantra of Cleveland Metroparks Mobile Outreach Education units: NatureTracks and Eco Explorers. The “Emerald Necklace” of reservations that William Stinchcomb envisioned back in 1917 encircled the city but did not reach INTO the city.

So, in 1976 a strategy was devised to give everyone an opportunity to experience nature regardless of their proximity to a Cleveland Metroparks nature center or reservation. With a grant from the Cleveland Foundation, Cleveland Metroparks Mobile Outreach Education program was created to address the commitment by Cleveland Metroparks to provide outdoor education programs and experiences to underserved populations of Cuyahoga County. The original vehicle, the Naturemobile, was a Winnebago RV outfitted with biofacts and natural history information that traveled around the county to help connect people to their natural world. The vehicle served as an information station at special events around Greater Cleveland. The Naturemobile also delivered education programs to schools and visitor gathering spots in Cleveland Metroparks.

This was one of the first of its kind in America and has served as a model for park districts throughout the country.

In 1993 a new, 38-foot, fifth wheel trailer was designed and the NatureTracks vehicle and program was established to bring environmental education programs to the children in the city as well as help connect residents of the city to their urban environment. Currently, NatureTracks delivers engaging curriculum-driven presentations for students grade K – 5 (that are aligned with state common core standards), hands-on experiences at area festivals and special events, as well as engaging programs for all citizens.

Eco Explorers, the newest addition to the outreach fleet in 2010, delivers nature-based programming to children ages 3 – 6. This age appropriate curriculum meets common core standards for pre-k and kindergarten through music, movement and exploration activities. Eco Explorers staff also connects with parents and teachers providing teacher workshops and parent night events.

Cleveland Metroparks mobile outreach education units continue to provide quality environmental education programs to the underserved populations of Cuyahoga County serving nearly 25,000 people annually. So, the next time you are in the city, be sure to look for NatureTracks and Eco Explorers – “bringing the parks to the people.”

Bev Walborn Education Specialist Mobile Outreach Programs – Eco Explorers 3

Mr. Franklin’s Bird

Notes from the Field

Last month while watching the rocket’s red glare and bombs bursting in the air, my thoughts naturally returned to snoods, poults and wattles.

I’ve spent the past month learning more about them, and as August bursts across Cleveland Metroparks, I’ve come to it with you.

Bald eagles get a lot of press these days. Nests in Cleveland Metroparks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Majestic soaring birds with sparkling white heads and tails. Bold fishing birds of the Rocky and Cuyahoga Rivers. The symbol of our nation. America’s best symbol saved, the fighting spirit of us all. Yes, all it takes is the right public relations firm, and you too can be the comeback bird of the century.

But the real comeback bird of the forests and grasslands of Ohio is a much different, much prouder bird. One with snoods. And poults.

And wattles. And you may have seen one or more right in your backyard here in Cuyahoga County, or might have nearly been run down by a nervous pack of them along a Cleveland Metroparks trail. The wild turkey has returned from among the missing, and he’s come back strong and proud.

There is a legend that Benjamin Franklin lobbied for the wild turkey to become the proud symbol of America, so loathsome did he consider the immoral bald eagle. In reality, he bemoaned the eagle’s status and favored the turkey in a letter to his daughter, not to the nation, and by the time his desires reached public ears the eagle was already synonymous with the United States of America. But that’s history, isn’t it? Let’s take a look at this Franklinized bird, this most majestic of meats, this stealthy stalker of park forests.

Many, if not all, of the current population of wild turkeys in Cleveland Metroparks are descendants of 32 turkeys set free by the Ohio Division of Wildlife and Cleveland Metroparks staff in

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Emerald Necklace, August 2013

an area near Hinckley Reservation around 1985.

These wild birds came from southern Ohio, where they were safely captured with huge rocket nets and transported immediately north to park lands for release. The birds profited from the open fields and forests of the area, and quickly spread up and down the Rocky River Valley, then outward along headwater streams. I received a photo of one under a bird feeder in Strongsville on Thanksgiving Day, 1989. Not much later, wild turkeys were spotted in Highland Heights, along MLK Boulevard, in Solon, and many other locations. Though often considered birds of large forest tracts by wildlife biologists of the 19501960s era, by the 1970s it became apparent that these large birds adapted well to suburban areas as long as there was sufficient food and protected grassland nesting habitat. And so the population grew, and continues to grow. Wild turkeys have now been seen in every Cleveland Metroparks Reservation but Euclid Creek Reservation.

So what of snoods and wattles and poults?

Poults are the young birds, often travelling in groups with their adult mothers. Local groups of hens and poults have been reported commonly in flocks of twenty or more, and a record report from the agricultural areas to the south of

Naturalist’s Almanac

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.

photo by Alfred Viola, Northeastern University, Bugwood.org

Hinckley was over forty birds. Adult males strut proudly in March and April, often competing with other gobblers for the favors of interested - and disinterested - hens. A red, fleshy finger-like protuberance which hangs over his beak is called a snood. Hens favor toms with longer snoods, and snood length is also a barometer to the tom turkey’s moods. If the tom is frightened or irritated, the snood shortens, perhaps a warning to other turkeys nearby. The fleshy red mass beneath the beak is the turkey’s wattle, which becomes larger and brighter on older toms. Tom turkeys also display a beard, which shows as a dangling whiskbroom-like structure.

Hens seem impressed with it during the spring mating season.

August is a special month for wild turkeys as most poults who survive this far will likely survive their first entire year. Look for them just after dawn when flocks come out to feed in open fields in your special place, Cleveland Metroparks.

Birds

Wildflowers

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.

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.

Insects The fields and wetlands are alive with the buzzing and fluttering of colorful insects; August is a peek 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.

Amphibians 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 provide life to another generation of salamanders.

greenheaded coneflower

Robert D. Hinkle Chief Naturalist Emeritus rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com 5

Summer Beach Party

Inside the Emerald Necklace

Saturday, August 3 • 5 – 11 p.m.

Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation • Bay Village This year’s Summer Beach Party with a movie on the beach features Top Gun. Enjoy beach games and activities, see the national awardwinning 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. Also, there will be 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 – Top Gun Join Maverick in his adventures as he works his way to the “Top” of his class as a naval aviator.

For more information, call 330-239-2911.

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.

Dive-In Movie II Bedtime Stories Friday, August 9 • 8 p.m.

Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. Come join us as we listen to Skeeter and his magical bedtime stories at Ledge Pool!

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 26 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 years 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 & Recreation Area is located at 1151 Ledge Road, between State and Kellogg roads in Hinckley Reservation in Hinckley Township.

Grand Tour de Necklace Saturday, August 24 • 8:15 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Chalet • Mill Stream Run Reservation • Strongsville Register now for a 20, 30 or 50 mile cycling ride to discover the beauty of Cleveland Metroparks from Brecksville to Big Creek reservations. This tour for ages 14 years and older with participating adult, is at your own pace and riders will share the roadway and sections of all purpose trails. Routes vary in difficulty and can be found online along with registration at clevelandmetroparks.com/or. Helmets required. Includes lunch and t-shirt.

Registration before August 9: $25 adults, $18 children (ages 14 – 17) After August 9: $35 adults, $25 children (ages 14 – 17)

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Bug City

Wilderness Skills Series

Saturday, August 10 • 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Garfield Park Reservation • Garfield Hts.

Wednesday, August 7 • 6 – 8 p.m.

Rocky River Nature Center Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted

Guests of all ages can join us for a free, one-day event filled with cool buggy activities as well as information and demonstrations.

The woods have much to teach. Adults meet once each month to learn a variety of skills that will allow you to walk with wisdom and confidence in the woods.

Outdoor awareness, survival and primitive skills will be taught by Naturalist Kathy Schmidt and Derek Ham, a wilderness skills instructor and search and rescue helicopter pilot. The first session will cover primitive fire making. September’s topic will be Wild Edibles.

Wander the streets of Bug City where you are able to get up-close and personal with bugs of all kinds from all over the world! There will be many exciting opportunities to learn about these amazing creatures and why they are important to us.

For more information, call 440-734-6660.

Rocky River Nature Center is located at 24000 Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation, north of Cedar Point Road in North Olmsted.

Just The Beats – NEW Summer Concert Series Garfield Park Nature Center Wednesday, August 14 • 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Garfield Park Reservation • Garfield Hts. Exhibitors from all over will be bringing their bug collections to share. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center will have live insect predators for everyone to enjoy.

Gene White will be demonstrating bug cooking recipes where there will be a chance to enjoy a buggy snack or two! Beekeepers and butterfly enthusiasts will be on-hand to give more information about these wonderful and important insects.

Gary Lee, Capt’n Willie, Bumper Bugs, Ant Trail, the Mealworm 500 and more are also part of the Bug City event. And don’t miss this year’s pin, Bumper Bugs!

Come and “bee” a part of Bug City!

Olu Manns of HeartBEAT Afrika (African Drum Circle) Our concert series wraps up for the season with the high-energy sounds of Olu Manns of HeartBEAT Afrika as he creates this African Drum Circle. The lively sounds are sure to draw you into the fun. You don’t want to miss the excitement!

Bring a chair and a friend!!!

For more information, call 216-341-3152.

Sponsored in part by Cuyahoga Arts & Culture.

For more information, call 216-341-3152.

Garfield Park Nature Center

Garfield Park Nature Center

is located off the Broadway Avenue entrance of Garfield Park Reservation in Garfield Heights – north of the I-480/Broadway Avenue exit.

is located off the Broadway Avenue entrance of Garfield Park Reservation in Garfield Heights – north of the I-480/Broadway Avenue exit.

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Touch a Truck

Snakes, Turtles & Fun!

Sunday, August 18 • 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Strongsville Park Operations Facility Mill Stream Run Reservation • Strongsville

Saturday, August 24 • 4 – 8 p.m.

The Shelterhouse South Chagrin Reservation • Bentleyville

With over 22,000 acres, Cleveland Metroparks has all sorts of equipment to keep the Park District operating.

Snakes, Turtles & Fun! celebrates reptiles that live in Ohio and around the world!

Come see over 30 pieces of equipment and vehicles on site. Kids can enjoy climbing on and in them, and learn why each piece of equipment is used. Some of the departments with equipment on display include: park operations, specialty crews, golf, natural resources, park rangers, and outdoor education.

People who love reptiles and those that prefer to keep a distance both will love all the hands-on and creative things to do at this FREE event. Take this chance to meet a reptile up-close and take part in some fun (and educational) reptile activities.

Activities include:

Cleveland Metroparks ECO-Team will discuss recycling practices and tips on how to make changes in everyday life through recycling.

• • • • • • • • • •

Haywagons and shuttle buses available to and from the parking areas.

A member of the Cleveland Metroparks Kids Club? Don’t forget to bring your passport to earn a sticker!

For more information, call 216-635-3200.

For more information, call 440-247-7075.

Kids can also enjoy playing in a huge sandbox with over two tons of sand brought in from the golf division.

And, bring empty aluminium cans for a Steam Roller Demonstration!

Meet a reptile Discovery digging for young children Be a turtle and RACE! Make a snake neck tie Weave a turtle dream catcher Play a GIANT reptile game Learn where reptiles might live in your neighborhood Have some dinner at Cleveland Metroparks food truck Buy a snack from the Girl Scouts Photo opportunities: Bring a camera!

Strongsville Park Operations facility

The Shelterhouse Picnic Area

is located at 9485 Eastland Road in Mill Stream Run Reservation, off Valley Parkway, west of Pearl Road/Rte. 42 in Strongsville.

is located off Hawthorn Parkway, east of SOM Center Road/Route 91 in Bentleyville – north of the Route 422/Route 91 exit.

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Dog Paddle & More!

Sunday, August 25 • 1 – 5 p.m.

Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. There’ll be hundreds of dogs at Cleveland Metroparks Ledge Pool for the 9th annual Dog Paddle & More!

Visitors can bring their non-aggressive dogs to swim in Ledge Pool for a nominal 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 to purchase items 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 & More!

For more information, call 330-239-2911.

Ledge Pool & Recreation Area is located at 1151 Ledge Road, between State and Kellogg roads in Hinckley Reservation in Hinckley Township.

Great Lake Erie Boat Float Saturday, September 7 10 a.m. boat launch Lower Edgewater Park • Lakefront Reservation Help raise awareness about the impact of plastics in our Lake and on its beaches by joining Cleveland Metroparks, The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and the Cuyahoga River Community Planning Organization at the 5th 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. All boats may be recycled by RES Polyflow after the trophy ceremony.

Still Time To Enjoy Some Sweet Summer Fun In Cleveland Metroparks Ledge Rock Café • 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. Quarry Rock Café • 1 – 7 p.m.

Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation • Berea Stay cool at Cleveland Metroparks swimming areas, and enjoy a snack after your swim. Visitors can also rent a paddleboat or kayak at Wallace Lake or a paddleboat at Ledge Lake.

Have Your Next Meeting at the Chalet Recreation Area!

Cleveland Metroparks Chalet Recreation Area in Strongsville is a great reservable area to have recreational, social and business meeting opportunities in the natural beauty of the “Emerald Necklace.” The Chalet Recreation Area can be rented for family outings, group functions, and company meetings/picnics during the spring, summer and fall seasons.

The area features charcoal grills, picnic tables, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and swings. The Chalet facility can accommodate up to 85 people in the main lounge and an additional 75 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, 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.).

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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Don’t Let Summer End Without At Least One More Visit To The Beach Or Pool!

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 five swimming areas.

Swimming hours are: • Edgewater Beach • Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through August 11 then weekends only through Labor Day • Hinckley Lake • Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through August 11.

• Huntington Beach • Huntington Reservation, Bay Village – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through August 11 then weekends only through Labor Day • Ledge Pool & Recreation Area • Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township (daily pool admission fee or season pass access) – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. through August 18 also features reservable picnic shelters, fishing along Ledge Lake shore (fishing license required), volleyball and basketball courts, and swimming lessons.

• Wallace Lake • Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. through August 11 Lifeguards are on-duty during posted hours at all five swimming areas

Boating Cleveland Metroparks offers a number of areas to enjoy boating, including: • Edgewater Park • Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland • Emerald Necklace Marina (216-226-3030) • Rocky River Reservation, Lakewood (kayak rental also available 1-866-529-2541) • Gordon Park • Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland • Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store (330-826-1682) • Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township (rowboat, electric motorboat, canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboard, pontoon boat and paddleboat rental available) • Ledge Pool & Recreation Area (330-239-2911) • Hinckley Reservation, Hinckley Township (new this year – paddleboat rental available) • Wallace Lake (440-826-1682) • Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea (paddleboat and kayak rental available through August 11, no private vessels allowed) • Wildwood Park • Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland

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 Lake Erie, the Chagrin, Cuyahoga and Rocky rivers, and Hinckley, Judge’s, Ledge, Ranger, Shadow and Wallace Lakes and Ohio & Erie Canal.

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Who are the Branches on Your Family Tree?

As you look at the branches of your family tree, who do you see? People you remember fondly? Family members that you want to honor today?

Cleveland Metroparks Branching Out program is a unique way to create a living tribute for all of the branches in your family tree.

Branching Out supports reforestation now and in the future. Through a gift of $1800, donors have the opportunity to have a tree planted in the reservation or golf course of their choice and support future tree plantings. Trees planted through the Branching Out program are native species, approximately 8’ in height.

Plantings take place in spring and fall.

Donors are notified of the location of the tree planted through their contribution.

ds er The i K rn Co Wonderful

World of Insects

Insects, they’re everywhere. They inhabit all the continents and roam your backyard. Join our insect team and enter the amazing world of insects.

Ant

Honeybee

Beetle

Ladybug

Butterfly

Mealworm

Cicada

Mosquito

Damselfly

Moth

Dragonfly

Termite

In addition to supporting reforestation, all individuals honored through the Branching Out program are recognized in Cleveland Metroparks Branching Out gallery at clevelandmetroparks.com as well as in the Emerald Necklace newsletter and Gift of Nature annual report.

Answer: Ant (12, 6 E) Beetle (14, 13 NE) Butterfly (3,9 N) Cicada (10, 6 N) Damselfly (1, 14 NE) Dragonfly (9, 9 NW) Honeybee (7, 5 SE) Ladybug (8, 5 SW) Mealworm (4, 15 E) Mosquito (11, 1 S) Moth (3, 11 NE) Termite (10, 12 W)

For more information on Branching Out or other ways you can support Cleveland Metroparks, contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development, at kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com or 216-635-3217. Donations may also be made online by visiting clevelandmetroparks.com and selecting ‘donate.’

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21st Annual Phone Book Recycling Campaign Through September 30, old phone books can be recycled at the following Cleveland Metroparks locations, seven days a 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.

This is the FINAL YEAR the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District will be operating this recycling program. Curbside recycling and the Abitibi bins now accept phone books.

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

Earn a 2013 Walking Works Shield 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, Garfield Park, Huntington, Rocky River and South Chagrin reservations. Moderate walkers can hit the trails in Brecksville, Hinckley, Ohio & Erie Canal, North Chagrin and Rocky River reservations. Those looking for a difficult hike will appreciate the challenging hike in Mill Stream Run Reservation.

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.

Want to walk with others while learning about the natural features of the trails? Naturalist-led hikes along the designated trails will be available 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 go to clevelandmetroparks.com. Walking Works forms are also available at Cleveland Metroparks nature centers.

Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation • CanalWay Center Whittlesey Way, Cuyahoga Heights

Did You Know?

Rocky River Reservation • Lawrence Grist Mill parking lot • Cedar Point Road, North Olmsted

• Cleveland Metroparks attracts over 15 million recreation visits per year.

South Chagrin Reservation • The Shelterhouse Picnic Area • Hawthorn Parkway, Bentleyville

• Properties within 500 feet of a Cleveland Metroparks property have a median value 16.4% higher than other Cuyahoga County residential parcels.

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 has property in, and contributes to, the health of the 6 major watersheds in Cuyahoga County.

• Cleveland Metroparks has property in 66% of the communities in Cuyahoga County.

• Cleveland Metroparks offers over 6,000 free nature programs and over 30 free special events each year.

A Look Ahead Monarch Magic Saturday, September 14 • Noon – 4 p.m.

North Chagrin Nature Center • North Chagrin Reservation • Mayfield Village Cleveland Metroparks will be fluttering with excitement at the free Monarch Magic event. As fall begins, find out where monarch butterflies migrate to and why. Enjoy movies, hikes, live butterflies, crafts, refreshments and more. Get up-close and personal with these beautiful winged travelers! For more information, call 440-473-3370.

Cedar Valley Settlers Celebration & Music Festival Sunday, September 15 • 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Frostville Museum • Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted Ohio’s Frontier days with its sights, sounds, smells and tastes will be brought to life on the grounds of Frostville Museum. Visitors can enjoy a variety of crafts, food, music and hands-on activities including pioneer toys, butter churning, candle-dipping, and other pioneer-era demonstrations for all ages to see, smell and try! The sounds of great music will fill the air throughout the day. For more information, call 440-734-6660.

FallFest: 18th Century Festival Sunday, September 29 • 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Meadows Picnic Area • Brecksville Reservation • Brecksville Celebrate years-gone-by at the free, annual Cleveland Metroparks FallFest: 18th Century Festival. Enjoy a variety of old-time, pioneer life skills, such as candle dipping. Plus, see an American Revolution encampment with formation drills and other demonstrations by the Brigade of the American Revolution, too. For more information, call 440-526-1012.

Applications Available for Reflections of Nature Quilt Show Saturday and Sunday, November 9 and 10 Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted One of the warmest and coziest Cleveland Metroparks events is the annual Reflections of Nature Quilt Show. Enter your nature-themed quilts and wall hangings in the juried show. Applications are available at any nature center or download at clevelandmetroparks.com.

Look About Lodge Art Exhibit: A Sense of Place: Naturally November 22 – 24 Look about Lodge • South Chagrin Reservation • Bentleyville If you’re an artist and you visit Cleveland Metroparks, we’re looking for you. Show off your talents by submitting your work to the 2013 Look About Lodge Art Exhibit: A Sense of Place: Naturally. Drop off artwork at Look About Lodge on November 15, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information, call 440-247-7075.

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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 available. All participants completing the course will be given a pass to a Cleveland Metroparks short course. Students in this class should be beginners to 25 handicap.

Thursdays, August 15 Mondays, August 19

6 – 7:30 p.m.

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Washington Washington

4-week session $120 5-week session $145

Beginners II These 4-week classes are suggested for graduates of the Beginners Series, although that is not mandatory. It will reinforce the fundamentals and try to advance the skill levels needed to be more successful and confident on the golf course. Graduates of this course receive a 9-hole golf pass. $140 Tuesdays, August 6

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Sleepy Hollow

Golf Outing Prep Have you been invited to golf in a company or social outing, but have almost no experience? Then this is the class for you. This class will introduce you to the fundamentals of playing golf and proper golf etiquette. You will also learn how different formats are played such as scrambles and better balls and how to strategize with your teammates. $50 Saturday, August 3

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Seneca

The Golf Swing – Cure Your Slice For golfers who hit shots that curve to the right for right-handed players and left for left-handed players. Learn how to lessen or eliminate your slice. This class will address set-up, aim/alignment and squaring the clubface at impact. $35 Wednesday, August 21 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Seneca

The Short Game – Complete Series Everybody knows you drive for show, but putt for dough! This three-part series is guaranteed to help all facets of your short game including putting, chipping and pitching. $90 Wednesdays, Sept. 4

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Seneca

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 2013

Finish Summer in the Swing Fall Tour Tournament Series Two-Player Scramble Saturday, September 28 Big Met Golf Course, Rocky River Reservation $110 per team

Barbour Cup Saturday, October 5 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course, Brecksville Reservation $180 per team (27 holes, includes cart)

Fall Junior Tour

for High School/Junior High Golfers 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 Tour Championship, Sunday, October 6 at Big Met.

Regular Tour events:

Cleveland Metroparks Tour Championship

Saturday, August 24, 12:30 pm.

Seneca A Golf Course – 440-526-0043

Saturday, October 12 Manakiki Golf Course, North Chagrin Reservation $50 per player

Sunday, September 8, 12:30 p.m.

Manakiki Golf Course – 440-942-2500

Moonlight Golf August 23 • Mastick Woods Golf Course • 9 p.m.

Golfers challenge their night vision and play nine holes with a Nitelite golf ball – it glows in the dark! The shotgun start takes players into a night world of golf with glowing golf balls, tees and greens. Registration is required and space is limited. Players should arrive 30 minutes before start time. $25 per player.

Saturday, September 14, 12:30 p.m.

Seneca B Golf Course – 440-526-0043 Sunday, September 22, 12:30 p.m.

Shawnee hills Golf Course – 440-232-7184 Cost is $35 for each event, 7th grade is $25 (9 holes) Online registration is available at clevelandmetroparks.com. For more information on golf events offered through the season, call 440-232-7247.

Moonlight Golf continues on: September 20 • Little Met Golf Course • 7:30 p.m.

Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 18 holes, par 71 and driving range Brecksville Reservation 9445 Brecksville Road, Brecksville 440-526-4285 Manakiki Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 North Chagrin Reservation 35501 Eddy Road, Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500

Big Met Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 Rocky River Reservation 4811 Valley Parkway, Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18 holes, par 71, 9-hole par 3 course and driving range Bedford Reservation 18753 Egbert Road, Bedford 440-232-7184

Seneca Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 18 holes, par 71 Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway, Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Little Met Golf Course 9 holes, par 34 Rocky River Reservation 18599 Old Lorain Road, Cleveland 216-941-9672

Mastick Woods Golf Course 9 holes, par 31 Rocky River Reservation 19900 Puritas Road, Cleveland 216-267-5626 Washington Golf Course 9 holes, par 29 and driving range Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Blvd, Village of Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864

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Dinosaurs! Open Daily Through September 15 at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Summer is winding down, and soon it will be time to start thinking about going back to school! Don’t let summer slip away without visiting Dinosaurs! at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Dinosaurs capture the imagination of guests of all ages and the Zoo’s Waterfowl Lake is rumbling with the sounds of 21 prehistoric creatures, brought to life by the magic of animatronics.

There are returning favorites and brand new dinosaurs to explore, from the water-spitting Deinonychus to the towering Tyrannosaurus rex.

Dinosaurs! runs daily through September 15. Admission to the special exhibit is just $3.50 per person with regular Zoo admission or $2 per person for Zoo members.

Admission is free for children younger than 2.

Dinosaurs! is presented by Dollar Bank with support from Discount Drug Mart, Cleveland Clinic Children’s and the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District.

Advance Boo at the Zoo tickets go on sale

Zoo News

Monday, August 12 It’s not too early to start planning your costume and thinking spooky for this year’s Boo at the Zoo! Advance sale tickets for the Zoo’s popular family-friendly Halloween event go on sale Monday, August 12. Tickets will be available on the Zoo’s website, clemetzoo.com, and at the Box Office. Call 216-661-6500 or visit the website for prices and more information. This year, Boo at the Zoo is scheduled for October 17 – 20 and 24 – 27. Several nights sold out during last year’s event, so get your tickets early!

Boo at the Zoo is presented by Giant Eagle with support from UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.

Cruise the Zoo on Your Bike During Wild Ride Friday, August 16 • 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Have you ever wished you could ride through Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on your bike? Well, Wild Ride at the Zoo is your chance!

You can roll past the rhinos and pedal right by the pachyderms from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Friday, August 16.

Wild Ride happens after the park closes to regular visitors so cyclists have the paths to themselves. Ride maps will point out bike routes around the Zoo for beginning, intermediate and experienced riders.

Riders will see the Zoo on two wheels rather than two heels as they cruise by many of the outdoor animals on exhibit and have chances to meet the animal keepers.

Tickets for Wild Ride are $12 per person, with a $2 discount for Cleveland Zoological Society members.

A signed release form will be required for each rider, and helmets are strongly recommended. Advance sale tickets are available online at clemetzoo.com along with printable release forms. Riders under age 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign and deliver the waiver to be admitted.

Wild Ride at the Zoo is supported by Jakprints and UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital. all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

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Emerald Necklace, August 2013

The Zoo’s Creature Comforts is an Enriching Experience Saturday, August 10 Caring for the thousands of animals that live at the Zoo is a daily challenge for the Animal Care staff. The Zoo’s annual Creature Comforts event is your chance to see some of the more unique “enrichment” activities animal keepers use to enhance the lives of the animals and keep them healthy both mentally and physically.

Enrichment for an animal can be anything from hiding food inside boxes for the animals to find, to spraying perfume around an animal’s exhibit to encourage them to explore as they search out the unfamiliar scent. Past enrichment demonstrations during Creature Comforts have included suspending fresh meat on a bungee cord above the lion exhibit and hiding food at the bottom of large barrels for the grizzly bears to find.

Check clemetzoo.com for more information on which animals will be getting the extra special treatment at this year’s Creature Comforts.

EdZooCation Calendar Education Programs at the Zoo Overnights at the Zoo – All programs run 7 p.m. – 10 a.m. the following morning.

Would you like to sleep over at the Zoo, hike the park at night, get close to the animals and take a behind the scenes tour? Then round up your pack, troop, horde, pride, colony or herd and plan an event they’ll never forget!

Sleep out in the Rising Waters Safari Camp in the Zoo’s African Savanna– Friday and Saturday nights. Family night is August 9.

Adult Overnights at the Zoo – Program runs 7 p.m. – 10 a.m. the following morning.

Rising Waters Adult Overnight is the perfect setting for a one-of-a-kind corporate retreat, reunion, birthday party or bachelor/bachelorette party. Your Zoo night includes dinner, a cash bar, animal encounters, a hike and a behind the scenes tour. Adult Overnights are scheduled for August 10 and 24.

Keeper for a Day – Runs daily from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Join the keepers who care for the animals in the Conservation Education division and become part of the team for the day. This is a five hour, hands-on experience you won’t forget.

Family Discoveries – All programs run 9 – 10:30 a.m.

Bring the entire family for a special Zoo experience featuring hands-on activities and guided tours (topics vary by date). This month discover African Elephant Crossing on August 7 or learn all about bears during Bear Differences on August 18 and 20.

Professor Wylde Show Cameo and Backstage Tour – Runs daily from 1 – 2 p.m.

Join the cast of Professor Wylde’s Animal Show with your very own on-stage role. Program participants will assist backstage with the show production and get a walk-on speaking role in the show. After the show, the guest and up to eight of their family members get a behind the scenes tour.

Summer Camp Day – Half-day and full-day camp sessions available Summer Day Camp runs through August 16, and is an ideal way for young people ages 5-14 to spend their summer. Campers participate in fun and educational activities, and learn about wildlife and the environment with experienced camp counselors. The last session of the season begins August 12.

To register, call 216-635-3391 or visit clemetzoo.com/learn.asp.

For the most up-to-date Zoo information: clemetzoo.com / 216-661-6500 17

The Stink of Nature Imagine an autumn field of goldenrods and asters. Does this bring back a memory of a smell? What if someone says, “It smells like rotten eggs?’ This should bring back a vivid memory. Your sense of smell provides both pleasurable and less than pleasurable experiences.

Individually, we tend to group smells as either good or bad. The smell of garlic, for instance, may remind one person of a favorite food while being considered offensive to another. We use soaps, deodorants and perfumes in our homes, cars and on our bodies in an effort to mask any potentially offensive odor. Despite all our efforts we will still encounter things that stink.

So when is a bad odor good? Bad odors are good for certain animals when they serve a valuable function.

Our sense of smell protects us when we smell smoke or natural gas and are alerted to potential danger. For some animals, their offensive smell is a deterrent to potential predators. In some cases it also serves as a method of communication to others of its kind.

When you think of particularly well known offensive odors, the black and white striped skunk may come to mind. This animal is common in both cities and urban areas and most everyone has had a whiff of its powerful spray. Even its Latin name, Mephitis, means bad odor.

agricultural pest feeding on valuable crops. Some of the chemicals they produce are important for finding potential mates, but are also used for defense. Not only does the spray stink, but it makes the bug distasteful as well. The glands on the sides of the body can be emptied one at a time or discharged together. Drops of the chemical can even be reabsorbed back into the glands.

The stinkpot turtle is also known as the musk turtle. It is a small 3 – 5 inch turtle that can be found in slow moving, shallow bodies of water that have muddy bottoms. The musk glands are located on each side beneath the border of the carapace or top shell. When threatened they can release this stinky secretion, allowing them to repel predators.

We may not want to seek out any of these smells, but we may encounter them at some time. It is easy enough to avoid contact with stinkpot turtles and stink bugs, but if you live in a neighborhood that has skunks and dogs, you’ll probably smell this animal’s nasty odor again.

Keep in mind that the stink may have saved the animal’s life.

Deb Marcinski Naturalist, C.I.G. North Chagrin Nature Center

The skunk is neither large nor fast. It wanders about at night with its nose to the ground searching for odors that may lead it to food. Bold white markings against the black fur stand out even in the dark, a warning coloration that advertises that this animal is best left alone.

The skunk’s defensive weapon is a sulfur-based musk. Given time, they will warn before spraying by stamping their feet and elevating their tail. If the threat persists, they release a well-directed stream of musk, which at close quarters is quite nauseating. It is painful if it makes contact with the eyes and causes swelling of the lining of the nose. While this is effective against mammalian predators, owls are not deterred by the smell and great horned owls prey on skunks.

Other animals well known for their stink are stink bugs and stinkpot turtles. The stink bug can be an 18

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Skunk photo by Alfred Viola, Northeastern University, Bugwood.org

Emerald Necklace, August 2013

Awesome August Awesome New Shop! On June 21, the new Watershed Stewardship Center’s doors opened to

the public. And Cleveland Metroparks fifth shop was unveiled. The center, located in West Creek Reservation, is dedicated to the science of healthy watersheds. The focus of this new center is research and sustainable action. Our beautiful shop and our products reflect the mission of the center. Rain gauges, rain chains, full size rain barrels and collapsible rain barrels are available for purchase. Soap Nuts, Wool Dryer Balls and Shower Timers are just some of the variety of products that we offer to the Watershed Stewardship Center’s customer. We promise you an awesome experience!

LOCATIONS/HOURS CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003

Open daily: 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store 1 West Drive Hinckley Township 330-278-2160

Awesome Summer Special! If you are a teacher or a senior citizen, stop

in Rocky River and North Chagrin shops this month and receive a special discount on your purchases. Choose from books and field guides, coffee and teas to fill your Cleveland Metroparks mugs, as well as lotions, candles and accessories. We’ll save you money while you’re enjoying your parks!

Awesome Events! Visit Cleveland Metroparks Nature Shops at these August Events August 10 – Bug City at Garfield Park Reservation – Using stencils of our favorite bugs – bees, ladybugs, butterflies – adults and kids alike can create a specialized t-shirt, ready to go home with you. $5 each August 18 – Touch-A-Truck at Strongsville Maintenance Center – Stop in at our tent and find a variety of trucks to purchase as a reminder of your awesome visit. We will again be offering our t-shirt stamping opportunity to truck-lovers of all ages. $5 each

Open daily: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511

Monday – 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.

Watershed Stewardship Center Parma 440-253-2170 Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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Lake Erie Nature & Science Center

Plan your preschooler’s fall with us! Register beginning Monday, August 19. Learn more at www.lensc.org or call 440-871-2900.

Nature Nuts Choose from Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. OR Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Fee (10 weeks): $300/child; members $250/child Nature-based preschool where children ages 3 – 5 meet live animals, hike outdoors, visit the planetarium and enjoy a world full of fun!

Cabin Critters (NEW OPTION THIS YEAR!) Choose from Mondays OR Tuesdays 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Fee (10-weeks): $300/child; members $250/child Children ages 4 – 6 transition from Nature Nuts to the Log Cabin in this brand new preschool offering!

Log Cabin Explorers Club Choose from Wednesdays OR Fridays 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. or Fridays 1 – 3 p.m.

Fee (10 weeks): $300/child; members $250/child Children ages 5 – 6 will grab their backpacks and investigate Huntington Reservation.

Log Cabin Samplers Thursdays, September 12, October 10 AND November 14 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. OR 1 – 3 p.m.

Fee (All 3 dates): $90/child; members $70/child

Family Programs Perseid Meteor Shower Night Monday, August 12 8 p.m.

Bring the whole family to Schuele Planetarium for a quick presentation on meteors, including a chance to hold an actual meteorite. Then head to Huntington Beach, spread out your blanket and enjoy the live show in the sky! Call to reserve a seat for the planetarium presentation. Sky watching starts around 9 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

Fee: $3/person for Planetarium presentation

Family Forest Fun For families with children ages 5 and up Saturday, September 14 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Hike with us and see the forest for all of its trees!

Have you ever wanted to know what kinds of trees all of those colorful fall leaves come from? Do you wonder what makes the trees change color in the first place? Take a closer look at the trees that make up the forest of Huntington Reservation and become a tree leaf identification expert!

Hike through the woods practicing your tree identification skills and put together your own leaf ID booklet to use at home.

Fee: $7/person; $35/family of 5 or more

Try out Log Cabin Explorer’s Club in a single day per month session!

Ages 4 – 6.

Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs Monthly SkyQuest

Is There Anybody Out There?

For Preteens through Adults, $4/person Every Saturday, 3 p.m. Repeats August 3 & 17 at 8 p.m.

Free telescope viewing after the evening shows

(August 3*, 10, 17*, 23, 31)

Stay on top of the amazing field of Astronomy with each of SkyQuest’s different monthly topics. This is a longer program for those who want to more deeply explore the latest space topics with our expert staff. Plus, find out which constellations and planets are in the sky this month. Each program lasts 45 – 60 minutes.

Free outdoor telescope viewing follows the evening shows, weather permitting.

To answer this question, astronomers hunt for extrasolar planets, or exoplanets. Hundreds of exoplanets have been identified and NASA’s Kepler telescope has found thousands of other candidates. Join us to learn how astronomers go about this tedious task, what has been discovered so far and what we need to find if we hope to find life elsewhere in the galaxy. * Telescope viewing after the evening shows is free and open to all ages.

Planetarium seating is first-come, first-served. Star show tickets are available at the Welcome Desk 30 minutes before the posted start time of each program. Doors close promptly and no one will be admitted after posted program start time.

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.

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August Events by Location Off-site programs

14 • Urban Explorations: Bratenahl 22 • Urban Explorations: Group Plan Buildings 30 • Urban Explorations: Natural Flats

(AR) Acacia Reservation

8 • 15 • Play Outside at Acacia

(BeR) Bedford Reservation

3 • Woodlands of Bedford: Annual Tinker’s Creek Walk 18 • Dogs Days of Summer

(BWR) Bradley Woods Reservation 4 • Breakfast in the Park

(BrR) Brecksville Reservation 14 • Last Blast of Summer 31 • Tour de Emerald Necklace Brecksville Historical Association 18 • Annual Corn Roast

(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 2 • Summer Wildflower Folklore and Hike 6 • Hidden Story Hike 31 • Migrating Monarchs

(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 • Stuart Pearl Photography 4 • Sunday Cart Tour 7 • Stroller School: Hummingbirds 9 • Dusk Hike 10 • American Girl Morning: Josefina 10 • Second Saturday Storytelling 15 • Bike Ohio & Erie Canal 16 • 31 • CanalWay Cart Tours South 17 • 30 • CanalWay Cart Tours North 17 • Acoustic Players Circle 18 • What’s the Buzz?

21 • Evening Cart Tour 23 • Preschool: Insects 24 • Crafter’s Circle 25 • Headlines in History 29 • Hidden Valley Homeschool: Back to School Scavenger Hunt 30 • CanalWay Campfire

(CMZ) Cleveland Metroparks Zoo 13 • Big Creek Clean-up 17 • Sketching Safari at the Zoo

(ECR) Euclid Creek

3 • Catch Creek Fish 9 • The Wilds of Wildwood 25 • Sunday Bird Walk

(HiR) Hinckley Reservation

3 • Early Morning Pontoon Float 9 • Hike the Ledges 13 • Hiking for the Young at Heart 21 • Full Moon Paddle in a BIG Canoe 23 • Evening Voyageur Canoe Paddle 25 • Breakfast in the Park 25 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle

(HuR) Huntington Reservation

17 • Volunteer to Adopt-A-Beach (LENSC) Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Open Daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

28728 Wolf Road, Huntington Reservation, Bay Village, 440-871-2900 15 • Nightfall: Mystery & Mayhem a la Mode 16 • Rocket Camps: Advanced 1 and 2

(MSRR) Mill Stream Run Reservation 10 • 11 • Voyageur Canoe Paddle

(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation

2 • Family Friday Night: Bubbles at the Castle 17 • Dog Hike 21 • Mid-Afternoon Hike 24 • The Magic of Meadows

(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 3 • Heart Pumping Hike 4 • The Cool of the Forest 10 • Coaster Hike 11 • You Too Can Vermicompost 18 • Golden Wildflowers 23 • Family Friday Night: Great Bug Hunt 25 • In Search of Worms 27 • Stroller Science – Insects 30 • Family Friday Night: Wetlands 31 • End of Summer Campfire Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 5 • Wildly Wide Angle Nature 19 • Our Six-Legged Friends

(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 3 • MAPS Bird Banding 10 • Pop Up Program: Bats 17 • Bike from Bacci and Back

(RRR) Rocky River Reservation 5 • Junior Explorers 9 • Cedar Valley Square Dance 10 • Monthly Morning with the Birds 10 • Campfire Olmsted Historical Society 4 • Antique Engine Show 11 • Festival of the Arts

(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center

Open Sunday 1 – 5 p.m.

Monday – Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance, Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 5 • 12 • 19 • 26 • Wellness Walk 10 • Bug City 14 • Summer Concert: African Drum Circle 16 • Hiding in Plain Sight!

24 • Center Road Ramble 24 • Once Was a Garfield Limerick 25 • Prep for Backyard Birds 27 • Meadow March 31 • Bird Calls for Beginners 31 • Nature Inspired Art – Butterflies

(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 44070 440-734-6660 1 – 31 • Gallery Wall: Paintings by Ron Statsko 3 • Salute to Snakes 3 • Snake Search Hike 3 • So You Think You Know Snakes?

3 • Reptiles and Amphibians 4 • Plants that Hurt 5 • 6 • Little Explorers: Chipmunks 6 • Junior Explorers 7 • 24 • Wilderness Skills 9 • 31 • For Women Only 9 • 16 • 23 • 30 • Sprouts! Pre-K Program Series 11 • Sounds of Nature 11 • Summer Book Review 15 • Inviting the Planet to Dinner: The Art of the Sausage 17 • Plants that Heal 18 • River Poets 18 • School of the Wilds: Galls 21 • Full Moon Hike 24 • Invasives, Lakes and Mercury – A Surprising Connection 24 • Cinema Saturday Night: American Values, American Wilderness 25 • Pollinators 31 • Life in the Hive Cuyahoga Astronomical Association 12 • Astrophotography for Beginner and Intermediate Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association 14 • Strengthening Your Colony for Winter Challenges Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists 14 • Care of the Greek Tortoise

(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation

10 • Late Summer Photo Hike 10 • Nature Journaling 16 • Capture the Flag 18 • Up the Creek at Sunset 24 • Snakes, Turtles & Fun! 25 • Big Year: Dragonflies and Butterflies (LAL) Look About Lodge Open Sundays noon – 4 p.m., otherwise open for scheduled programs, 37374 Miles Rd. Bentleyville 44022 South Chagrin Reservation 4 • Look About Lodge Summer Concert Series: Dan Zola Orchestra 11 • Artful August: Paint the Blues 11 • Outdoor Movie 17 • Summer Ravine Walkers 17 • Weeders in the Wild 24 • Extreme Hiking Cleveland Natural Science Club 17 • 10 Great Plants – 10 Great Plant Stories

(WSC) Watershed Stewardship Center

Group Programming For information on group programs, call any Cleveland Metroparks nature or visitor center.

Outdoor Adventures Outdoor Recreation is year-round.

For details about trips, skill classes or other recreational activities, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/or.

Open Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

2277 West Ridgewood Drive, Parma 44134 440-887-1968 4 • Intro to Butterfly Monitoring 9 • Friday Film

(WCR) West Creek Reservation 15 • Swamp “Monsters” 16 • Moth Night 18 • Monthly Bird Survey 20 • Parma’s Prairie: Bugs Galore!

25 • Summer Mushroom Foray

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August

Events Calendar 1 • Thursday Hunt of the Month: Campfire

The end of summer is the perfect time of year for a campfire. Stop by CanalWay Center to search for the paper campfires hidden throughout the center. Through August 31.

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC Stuart Pearl Photography

These photos capture amazing glimpses of downtown and highlight the beauty of our city. Bridges, buildings and sculptures all come together to form our remarkable city, but rarely do we stop to really look at them.

Through August 31.

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CWC Gallery Wall: Ron Stasko

Cleveland Metroparks Maps Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 18 reservations.

Or, call 216-635-3200 and request a Pathfinder Map and Guide.

Club member, bring along your passport.

7:30 – 8:30 p.m. NCR Squire’s Castle parking lot Terrain: 0.5 mile

3 • Saturday MAPS Bird Banding

Visit a bird banding research station in action for an upclose encounter with some of your favorite birds, some of which travel up to 3,000 miles to nest here. Follow the sign by the Lower 40 Loop Trail. Cancelled if raining.

7 – 11 a.m. OECR 216-206-1000 Early Morning Pontoon Float

Enjoy the beauty of an early morning on Hinckley Lake

Cleveland native Ronald Stasko explores the themes of Ohio’s natural beauty in paintings. Through August 31.

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. RRNC

2 • Friday Summer Wildflower Folklore and Hike

Join Historical Interpreter/ Naturalist Foster Brown on a hike through Brecksville Reservation, enjoying summer color from sun-loving wildflowers. This hike will bring to light stories of history and folklore of common and unique flowers of August.

1 – 2:30 p.m. BNC Terrain: slow-paced, hills, 1 – 1.5 miles 440-526-1012 Family Friday Night: Bubbles at the Castle

Bring a bottle of bubble solution and a wand to Squire’s Castle. We’ll take a short hike to look for frogs and then you can have fun blowing bubbles on the lawn. If you are a Kids

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Emerald Necklace, August 2013

from the comfort of the Floating Water Lab. Naturalist Sharon Hosko will be your guide.

7:30 – 8:30 a.m. or 9 – 10 a.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Ages: 10 years & over with adult Fee: $5 Register beginning July 22 clevelandmetroparks.com Woodlands of Bedford: Annual Tinker’s Creek Walk

Join Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi on the annual in-stream exploration of Bedford Reservation’s “green grand canyon.” Wear wettable shoes and clothing as we will traverse the stream, floodplain and nearby habi-

tats of this remote area of Bedford Reservation. Bring a light lunch, camera and binoculars.

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. BeR Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Terrain: generally flat, wet, expect muddy conditions, 6 – 8 miles 216-341-3152 Heart Pumping Hike

Get your blood flowing from head to toe on this more walk than talk hike. As we travel fast-paced through the reservation we’ll get in a cardio workout while taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of nature.

9 a.m. – noon NCNC Ages: adults Terrain: some hills, rugged, 5 – 6 miles

Salute to Snakes

Catch Creek Fish

Come on out to Rocky River Nature Center for a fun-filled day of snake hikes, crafts, talks, and more. See live snakes up-close and personal.

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. RRNC

Find out what lives below the water’s surface as we use seines and dip nets to catch fish in Euclid Creek. Wettable shoes and clothing are recommended. If you are a Kids Club member, bring along your passport.

2 – 3:30 p.m. ECR Highland Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: wet, slippery, 0.5 mile 440-473-3370

Snake Search Hike

Let’s head out on the trails and see if we can find some snakes around the forests and wetlands of Rocky River Nature Center. Closed-toed shoes and long pants recommended.

11 a.m. – noon RRNC Ages: families Terrain: some off-trail, 1 mile So You Think You Know Snakes?

How much do you know about the slithery serpents that inhabit our world? Join us for a fun, game-show style program where individuals and families can compete to see who has the most snake smarts.

1 – 2 p.m. RRNC Ages: families

Reptiles and Amphibians

All those cold-blooded critters can really warm our heartstrings. Come hike with Naturalist Erika Smeader and talk about all those lovely reptiles and amphibians that call Cleveland Metroparks home.

2 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC

4 • Sunday Breakfast in the Park

Bring along your appetite and food contribution so our volunteer chefs can prepare a delicious breakfast. While it’s cooking, we will enjoy a hike

through the swamp forest of Bradley Woods Reservation.

9 – 11 a.m. BWR Codrington Picnic Shelter Terrain: level, wet, muddy, 1.25 mile Register beginning July 24 440-734-6660 Antique Engine Show Olmsted Historical Society

The Lagrange Engine Club will display their collection of antique farm engines, big and small in the perfect setting.

The tractors and engines are scattered among the restored houses that will be open at 11 a.m. Food and beverages are available. Call for information to exhibit.

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. RRR Frostville Museum 440-734-3124 olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Sunday Cart Tour

Have you wanted to walk to the end of our trail, but the distance was too far? Or wondered about the history of the area? Join us for one of these tours focusing on the natural and cultural history of Ohio

& Erie Canal Reservation.

Each tour accommodates seven passengers.

1 – 2 p.m. or 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning July 22 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Intro to Butterfly Monitoring

If you enjoy butterflies and could be possibly interested in monitoring populations, join Naturalist Tim Krynak as we learn more about different opportunities.

This will be a hands-on experience for beginners or experts alike with no commitments.

1 – 3 p.m. WSC Ages: adults, teens Terrain: easy, some off-trail, 1 – 2 miles The Cool of the Forest

You’ll be shaded by the beechmaple forest as we hike to look for late summer flowers and berries. Bird song has declined but you may hear a variety of insects.

1:30 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: slight hill, 2.5 miles

Rocky River Marina, Rocky River Reservation

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Plants That Hurt

Poisonous plants…some are deadly, others are just annoying. Hike with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt as we search them out.

2 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with older children, adults Terrain: flat, 1.5 miles Look About Lodge Summer Concert Series: Dan Zola Orchestra

Celebrate Look About Lodge’s 75th anniversary with music of the 1930s and 40s. Bring your dancing shoes and kick up your heels to the Dan Zola Orchestra. Come at 5 p.m. for a swing dance lesson. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, picnics welcome! Donations welcome.

6 – 8 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

5 • Monday Wellness Walk

Get your exercise in early!

Meet fellow walkers for a naturalist-led wellness hike for your health. We’ll engage in a brisk walk while enjoying the changing scenery of Garfield Park Reservation’s

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urban forest habitat.

7:30 – 8:30 a.m. GPNC Terrain: moderate, some hills and stairs, 2 – 2.5 miles Little Explorers: Chipmunks

Chipmunks are fun to watch as they dart around the forest searching for food. We will learn how they live underground, what they like to eat and go on a hike looking for their hiding places.

10 – 11 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m.

RRNC Ages: 3 – 5 years with adult Terrain: some steps, 0.5 mile Register July 25 – Aug. 2 440-734-6660 or clevelandmetroparks.com Junior Explorers

Join Naturalist Min Keung to look for butterflies at Lewis Road Riding Ring. We will learn about monarch tagging and how to identify butterflies in the area. Make an insect craft to take home.

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRR Lewis Road Riding Ring Ages: 8 – 10 years Terrain: muddy Register beginning July 28 440-734-6660

Emerald Necklace, August 2013

Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Wildly Wide Angle Nature

Put away the macro lenses and see what you can do with 35 mm or less. Then bring in three of your best efforts for discussion.

8 – 10 p.m. NCNC

6 • Tuesday Hidden Story Hike

Join Naturalist John Miller to explore the diversity, beauty, and inter-relationships of the flowers, insects and birds of the Tallgrass Prairie.

9 – 11 a.m. BNC Terrain: moderate, steps, stroller incompatible, 0.75 mile Junior Explorers

Join Naturalist Min Keung for big nature fun. Learn about big trees and look for critters as we walk on the trails. Make a craft to take home.

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: 8 – 10 years Terrain: may be muddy Register beginning July 28 440-734-6660 Little Explorers: Chipmunks (see 8/5 for details)

7 • Wednesday Stroller School: Hummingbirds

Ruby-throated hummingbirds zip and zoom around our gardens and birdfeeders all summer long. Find out more about these fast little flyers with a story and puppets and then take a walk to see if we can spot one. All children must be in a stroller.

10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Wilderness Skills (see page 7 for details)

8 • Thursday Play Outside at Acacia

Bring the kids and join a naturalist at Acacia Reservation to enjoy some exploring and summer play time outdoors!

Weather permitting.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. AR 440-247-7075

9 • Friday For Women Only

Come join other women for exercise and camaraderie as we recharge after a busy week.

This month we’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of summer in the woodlands around Rocky River Nature Center.

10 a.m. – noon RRNC Ages: adult women Terrain: steps, hills, moderate, 3.5 miles 440-526-1012 Hike the Ledges

Join Naturalist Jenny McClain for a summer scramble through Whipp’s Ledges.

We’ll search for wildlife activity, fossils and other remnants of the past as we explore these majestic sandstone ledges.

This is a great opportunity for exercise and discovery for the whole family.

2 – 4 p.m. HiR Whipp’s Ledges parking lot Terrain: steep hills, rocky, 1.5 miles 440-526-1012

Sprouts!

Pre-K Program Series

Give your youngster a head start in appreciating nature during this eight week series of holistic, happy, and healthful outdoor learning experiences. Themed activities merge with unstructured playtime.

Dress for the weather. Snack and craft included. Must be toilet trained. Fridays through October 4.

10 a.m. – noon RRNC Ages: 4 – 5 years Fee: $80 Terrain: muddy, hills, off-trail Register by August 7 440-734-6660 or clevelandmetroparks.com The Wilds of Wildwood

Join Naturalist Wendy Weirich for a closer look at the woods at the edge of Lake Erie near Euclid Beach.

6 – 7 p.m. ECR Wildwood Park parking lot 216-341-9228 Dusk Hike

We will take the Towpath north to the overlook and back. 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 – 8:30 p.m. CWC Terrain: paved, 2 hills, 3 miles Cedar Valley Square Dance

Square, round and line dances provide fun and exercise for all ages. Frank Koenig teaches the steps before each dance.

Bring your family and friends and be ready to make rhythmic tracks on the lawn at Frostville. We’ll move inside if it rains.

7:30 – 9 p.m. RRR Frostville Museum 440-734-6660 Friday Film

Bring the family for a Friday night double feature. This month’s focus is on rivers, close to home and in America’s Bread Basket. The documentary, Big River, begins a long canoe journey in Iowa, and will be followed by The Return of the Cuyahoga River.

7:30 – 9 p.m. WSC

10 • Saturday Monthly Morning with the Birds

Meet Naturalist Ken Gober for our monthly hike to survey bird activity near Rocky River Nature Center and look for the first signs of the fall migration. Bring binoculars.

8 – 11 a.m. RRR Rocky River Nature Center parking lot Terrain: some stairs, 1.75 miles 440-734-6660 Late Summer Photo Hike

Enjoy the soft morning light in a summer forest. We’ll hike the hills and cross the streams of Sulphur Springs.

Bring your camera to capture the seasonal sights.

9 – 11 a.m. SCR Sulphur Springs Picnic Area Terrain: slow-paced, hills, stream crossings, 1 mile

Voyageur canoe on Hinckley Lake, Hinckley Reservation

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American Girl Morning: Josefina

During this drop-off program we will do fun activities like those in the American Girl books. This month, travel to New Mexico nearly 200 years ago to meet Josefina and make southwestern style crafts and snacks. You do not have to read the book to participate.

10 a.m. – noon CWC Ages: 8 – 12 years Fee: $5 Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Voyageur Canoe Paddle

Here is your chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe with Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters. This historic adventure is full of song, stories and lessons of the Great Lakes Fur Trade. Eighteen passengers can join our crew on this hour-long paddle.

11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., or 3:30 p.m. MSRR Wallace Lake Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530 Nature Journaling

Take a deep breath of nature, and appreciate the signs of the season as we venture out on the trail. We will reflect on what we have seen through art and writing in a journal of our creation. You may want to bring your camera.

1 – 3 p.m. SCR Sledding Hill parking lot off Chagrin River Road Ages: 12 years – adult Fee: $15 first time only Terrain: slow-paced, 1 mile Register by August 7 440-247-7075 Coaster Hike

Don’t miss this final coaster hike of the year. This will be an extended hike covering most of the hilliest trails in North Chagrin Reservation.

1:30 – 4:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: hills, dirt trails, 4.5 miles

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Campfire

A blazing campfire welcomes us to the Trailside Amphitheater. Bring along a story or song to share. Kathy and Gus Ubaldi will lead us in a few songs. We will finish with a marshmallow roast.

7 – 8:15 p.m. RRR Trailside Amphitheater 440-734-6660 Second Saturday Storytelling

Joe Conrad joins us from Mogadore to share tales old and new, fictional and true.

After his story performance, we’ll enjoy refreshments and a story swap.

7:30 – 9 p.m. CWC 440-734-6660 Pop Up Program: Bats

Bring your family and friends to Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation to watch bats pop up to dine on bugs. Grab a lawn chair and join us as we discuss the life of bats.

8 – 9 p.m. OECR Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Bug City (see page 7 for details)

11 • Sunday Festival of the Arts Frostville Museum Olmsted Historical Society

A festival of arts & crafts with three 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 wengerk@north-olmsted.com 440-716-4118 Artful August: Paint the Blues

Paint the coolness of nature’s summertime blues. We’ll color our canvases with acrylics and enjoy a sweet summer treat. Be prepared to paint

Emerald Necklace, August 2013

Snakes, Turtles and Fun!, South Chagrin Reservation

outdoors if the weather is nice. We will be inside in the event of rain.

12:30 – 3:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adults Fee: $15 Register by August 7 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com You Too Can Vermicompost

What is vermicomposting?

Can anybody do it? How can worms benefit us? This program will answer these questions and more. You will have an opportunity to create your very own vermicompost unit with simple materials.

1:30 – 3:30 p.m. NCNC Fee: $25 Register by August 7 clevelandmetroparks.com Sounds of Nature

Come hear the buzz about summer. All the lovely peeps, squeaks, tweets, and croaks are music to the ears. Walk with Naturalist Erika Smeader to identify the music all around us.

2 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC

Summer Book Review

Join Naturalist Joni Norris and the Rocky River Readers to review Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt. This children’s book is a favorite among several Rocky River Readers. Come see how we struggle with the idea of living forever.

2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Outdoor Movie

Enjoy Frank Capra’s 1938 Oscar-winning You Can’t Take It With You as part of a yearlong Look About Lodge 75th anniversary celebration. Bring a blanket or chair and we’ll supply the popcorn.

8 – 9:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Voyageur Canoe Paddle (see 8/10 for details)

12 • Monday Cuyahoga Astronomical Association Astrophotography for Beginner and Intermediate

Tonight’s speaker, CAA member Len Jezior, guides you through the basics of astrophotography. Then he’ll share helpful hints for going beyond the basics.

7:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC Wellness Walk (see 8/5 for details)

13 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart

Come explore the fields and forests of Hinckley Reservation with Naturalist Jenny McClain. We’ll enjoy summer’s splendor while we get some exercise.

9:30 – 11:30 a.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Ages: adults Terrain: moderate, hills, 3.8 miles Big Creek Clean-Up

Join us for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s annual river clean-up. Help improve the natural beauty of the area while preventing pollution of our rivers and lakes.

Refreshments included. Must wear clothing that can get dirty or wet and closed-toe shoes. Work gloves recommended.

5 – 8:30 p.m. CMZ Palava Hut Picnic Pavilion Ages: 12 – 17 years with adult, adults Registration required 216-661-6500 ext. 4029

14 • Wednesday Urban Explorations: Bratenahl

Doug Kusak leads a six mile hike at a moderate-brisk place along Lakeshore Boulevard.

Enjoy exercise as we pace the sidewalks to trace the wealth historically tucked away in this neighborhood.

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ages: adults, 12 years & over with adult Fee: $5 Terrain: city sidewalks,

6 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Last Blast of Summer

Before school starts, join us for a fun-filled day in the park. We’ll play games, hike and explore the world around us. Bring lunch, extra water and an extra pair of shoes to wear in the creek.

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. BrR Plateau Picnic Area Ages: 8 – 11 years Terrain: hill, 1 mile Register beginning August 1 440-526-1012 Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association

Julia Fine of Penn State University presents her research on the best practices to use in preparing and strengthening your colony for upcoming winter challenges.

7 – 8:30 p.m. RRNC Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists

Turtles are the focus of tonight’s meeting. N.O.A.H. member Robert Musial discusses the care and husbandry of the Greek Tortoise (Testudo ibera) based on his twenty years of experience with these reptiles. He will also bring some tortoises to our talk.

7 – 9 p.m. RRNC Just the Beats Summer Concert: African Drum Circle (see page 7 for details)

15 • Thursday Swamp “Monsters”

Get up-close and personal with peculiar insects, and awesome frogs, turtles, and plants of West Creek Reservation’s wetlands. Learn how to properly catch, identify, and release aquatic creatures. Containers, mesh nets, and collection and observation tools are provided. Bring footwear that can get wet and muddy.

10:30 a.m. – noon WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Ages: adults, families Terrain: some off-trail, 1.5 miles

Bike Ohio & Erie Canal

Join Jill Hauger and Doug Kusak 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: paved, crushed stone, one hill, 12 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Nightfall: Mystery & Mayhem a la Mode

Uncover the family super sleuth and the Mystery Animal of the night. Gather clues as you explore the Center and Wildlife Gardens.

Your reward is yummy ice cream!

6 – 8 p.m. LENSC Fee: $7, $35/family of 5 or more Registration required 440-871-2900 or register at the Center Inviting the Planet to Dinner: The Art of the Sausage

Nearly all sausage in stores is mass-produced, full of mystery “fillers” and preservatives, and made by machines.

Local butcher Mike Dunlap aims to change that by offering hand-piped, all-natural sausages in a variety of hardto-find styles and ethnic flavors. Come taste for yourself.

7 – 8:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Fee: $12 (tastings) Register July 18 – August 12 440-734-6660 or clevelandmetroparks.com Play Outside at Acacia (see 8/8 for details)

16 • Friday Rocket Camps: Advanced 1 and 2

Flying higher and farther for students who’ve attended our beginner camps or completed grades 4 - 5 and 6 - 12. Reach For the Sky launch contest is at 4 p.m.

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. LENSC Fee: $50

Registration required 440-871-2900 or register at the Center CanalWay Cart Tours: Southern Route

Have you wanted to walk to the end of our trail, but the distance was too far? Or wondered about the history of the area? Join us for one of these tours focusing on the natural and cultural history of our reservation. Each tour accommodates seven passengers.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. or noon – 1 p.m. CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning August 1 216- 206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Hiding in Plain Sight!

Young children will learn that wild animals have features and behaviors to help them be well suited for their specific environments. We will play some games, sing some songs and make a fun, camouflaged critter puppet.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC Ages: 4 – 7 years with adult Capture the Flag

Come and play! You don’t have to be a kid to play games outside. Be prepared to sneak around in the dark and get dirty. More information will be sent to you when you register.

8 – 10 p.m. SCR The Arboretum Ages: 14 years – adult Terrain: dark, on- and offtrail, highly active Register by August 12 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com Moth Night!

Your backyard reservation is loaded with colorful and phenomenal insects that you may never have noticed before.

Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on a nocturnal adventure to get up-close with moths – the butterflies of the night. Learn how to make your own moth bait. Participants must have a flashlight.

8:45 – 10 p.m. WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Ages: adults, families Terrain: some off-trail, 0.5 mile 27

Sprouts! (see 8/9 for details)

17 • Saturday Summer Ravine Walkers

Escape the heat of summer with a walk in Sulphur Springs ravine. This cold water trek offers a look at a unique habitat and beautiful landscape.

It’s exercise for your body and soul in nature’s gym.

9 – 11:30 a.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: in the creek, challenging, 3 miles Dog Hike

Bring your best friend to the park for some exercise and socialization. We’ll hike the wooded trails of North Chagrin Reservation. Dogs must be leashed.

10 – 11:30 a.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area Terrain: moderate, hills, 2 – 3 miles Sketching Safari at the Zoo Bring your sketchbooks and favorite drawing supplies to the zoo for a summer sketching safari. We will try to capture the animals – on paper!

10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CMZ Cleveland Metroparks Zoo entrance gate Ages: 14 years – adult Register by August 14 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com Bike from Bacci and Back

Doug Kusak leads a moderate paced 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 Terrain: paved trail, large hills, city streets, 10 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com CanalWay Cart Tours: Northern Route

distance was too far? Or wondered about the history of the area? Join us for one of these tours focusing on the natural and cultural history of our reservation. Each tour accommodates seven passengers.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. or noon – 1 p.m. CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com 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 Plants That Heal

Healing, healthful plants are all around us. Hike with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt as we search them out.

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with older children, adults Terrain: flat, 1.5 miles 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 for the month: That’s Depressing.

1 – 3 p.m. CWC Weeders in the Wild

The woodlands around Look About Lodge are dotted with Japanese barberry, an invasive plant. Bring work gloves and a shovel to help curtail the spread of this shrub throughout the forest.

1 – 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 14 years – adult

Have you wanted to walk to the end of our trail, but the 28

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Emerald Necklace, August 2013

Shawnee Hills Golf Course, Bedford Reservaiton

10 Great Plants – 10 Great Plant Stories

Jeff Griff is the 3rd generation owner of Lowe’s Greenhouse, which has been serving Chagrin Valley since 1926.

Lowe’s has been awarded numerous Ohio and national awards. Bring pen and paper, if you wish to take notes, and join us for Jeff’s entertaining lecture.

7:30 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge

18 • Sunday Monthly Bird Survey

Join us for a monthly bird survey of West Creek Reservation.

This survey will track progress of restoration efforts utilizing birds as one measure. We will stop at designated sites to look, listen and record all bird species. This will provide

training for anyone interested in assisting in future breeding bird surveys.

8 – 10 a.m. WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Ages: adults, teens Terrain: easy, 1.5 – 2 miles What’s the Buzz?

Summer is ending. Days are getting shorter and the bugs are getting louder. Come down to Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation to catch and identify some of the bugs by sight and sound.

10 – 11:30 a.m. CWC Terrain: one hill, paved trail, crushed stone, 1 mile River Poets

Join Naturalist Joni Norris as we read nature poetry by outstanding poets. If you are inclined, bring a sample of your own poetry to share.

Several examples of nature poems will be provided.

Listeners are always welcome.

Noon – 1 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults

Dogs Days of Summer

Come alone or bring your leashed canine companion on a hike in beautiful Bedford Reservation. We’ll enjoy the cover of the forest canopy as we hike the trail to Tinker’s Creek. Earn credit toward a Walking Works walk.

1:30 – 3 p.m. BeR Egbert Picnic Area Terrain: moderate, steep hill, 1.5 miles 216-341-3152 Golden Wildflowers

Join Naturalist Mindy Murdock for an autumn wildflower primer. We’ll start with an indoor presentation and follow with a walk around the pond and marsh to see what’s in bloom. Here is your chance to learn fall wildflowers.

1:30 – 3 p.m. NCNC Terrain: level, easy, 1 mile Annual Corn Roast

Join Brecksville Historical Association members for a fun annual summer event where corn roasted in the husk, hot dogs, desserts and refreshments can be purchased.

Tours of the Squire Rich Museum (circa 1840), associated garden and grounds will be sure to please all comers.

1 – 5 p.m. BrR Squire Rich Museum 440-526-1012 School of the Wilds: Galls

Those lumps and bumps growing from the leaves, stems, and tree trunks encase a magical world of survival and complex relationships.

Learn about the many ways they form and which organisms produce them, then head out onto the trail to find some in the field.

2 – 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with older children, adults Terrain: mostly flat, 1 mile Up the Creek at Sunset

Join a naturalist for a hike up Sulphur Springs Creek. Your feet and more will be wet as we explore this beautiful ravine and climb waterfalls on our journey. Wear sturdy footwear that can be wet.

6 – 8 p.m. SCR Sulphur Springs Picnic Area Terrain: in the creek, slippery

Register by August 15 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com

19 • Monday Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Our Six-Legged Friends

Now doesn’t that sound better than bugs? Bring in three of your insect favorites. An arachnid or two is just fine.

8 – 10 p.m. NCNC Wellness Walk (see 8/5 for details)

20 • Tuesday Parma’s Prairie: Bugs Galore!

Beneath the behemoth towers of West Creek Reservation lies a golden grassland full of spectacular and strange creatures. Join Jen Brumfield on a net-swinging journey to find butterflies, caterpillars, rainbow-colored leafhoppers, and bugs that spit. Get up-close to dragonflies and other creatures on this summer bug fest.

10 – 11:30 a.m. WCR Watershed Stewardship Center parking lot Ages: adults, families Terrain: some off-trail, 1.5 miles

21 • Wednesday Mid-Afternoon Hike

Explore what’s happening naturally along the trails around Squire’s Castle and River Grove Picnic Area.

You’ll be treated to a history lesson of Mr. Squire and the American Legion Camps.

1:30 – 3 p.m. NCR Terrain: bridle trails, may be muddy, 2.25 miles

Full Moon Hike

The hot nights of summer offer a stunning array of insect sounds for our ears.

We’ll try to identify some of these nocturnal songsters as we wind our way around the West Channel Pond Trail.

8 – 9:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: mostly flat, stairs, 1.5 miles Full Moon Paddle in a BIG Canoe

If you enjoy gazing into the heavens and are fascinated with August’s Sturgeon Moon and summer constellations, you will love this program.

We will spend an hour or more under the heavens in our 34-foot Voyageur Canoe, paddling Hinckley Lake while learning legends and lore.

8:30 – 10 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530

22 • Thursday 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.

Meeting instructions will be sent.

10 a.m. – noon Ages: 8 years – adult (under 18 with adult) Fee: $5 Terrain: paved, some steps Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000

23 • Friday

Evening Cart Tour

Preschool: Insects

Join us for an evening cart tour along the Ohio & Erie Canal. We will learn about the history of the area and look for signs of wildlife that roam in the evening hours.

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. CWC Fee: $5 Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com

Does your preschooler like bugs? If so join us on a bug hunt! We will learn the parts of insects through a fun song then travel outside to explore the world of insects!

10 – 11 a.m. CWC Ages: 2 – 5 years with adult Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com

Evening Voyageur Canoe Paddle

Here is your chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe with Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters. This evening’s historic adventure is full of song, story and lessons of the Great Lakes Fur Trade.

Eighteen passengers can join our crew on this hour-long paddle.

6 p.m., 7:30 p.m. or 9 p.m.

HiR Hinckley Lake Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530 Family Friday Night: Great Bug Hunt

Your mission, if you choose to accept it is to meet Naturalist Mindy Murdock for a great bug hunt. Search for all shapes, sizes and kinds. Bring your own insect net or borrow one of ours.

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: uneven, off-trail, 0.5 mile Sprouts! (see 8/9 for details)

24 • Saturday Extreme Hiking

We’re off for another adventure! Join Naturalist Pam Taylor as we explore some of the best South Chagrin Reservation has to offer.

Sections of this hike may be on the road less traveled.

8 – 11 a.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: hills and creeks, 7 – 8 miles 440-526-1012 Center Road Ramble

Come give some love to the heart of Garfield Park Reservation as we become more familiar with the reservation’s layout. We’ll keep an eye and ear out for late summer species while we traverse this peaceful trail up the center of the reservation.

10 – 11 a.m. GPNC Terrain: paved, hills, 1.5 miles

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Crafter’s Circle

Do you knit, crochet, quilt, sketch, paint or any other portable hand craft? Would you like to meet others who also do those crafts? Join us on the porch of CanalWay Center for an informal group to share ideas, tips and more!

10 a.m. – noon CWC Invasives, Lakes and Mercury – a Surprising Connection

Clear water in our Great Lakes is good news, right? Maybe not. Sometimes the threats are invisible. Local graduate student Derek Ham’s research reveals a possible connection to invasive species and mercury levels in fish and wildlife.

1 – 2 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults Once Was a Garfield Limerick

Join Naturalist Amy Strieter to track down some limericks.

We’ll look at examples of this humorous 5-line poem, take a short walk for inspiration, and endeavor to compose a few limericks of our own before leaving.

1 – 2:30 p.m. GPNC Terrain: some hills, 0.5 mile The Magic of Meadows

Meadows are a habitat that has a variety of resident animals from insects to mammals. Come take a closer look and discover the diversity of life that is concealed by meadow plants.

1:30 – 3 p.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: off-trail, uneven, 2 miles Cinema Saturday Night: American Values, American Wilderness

From Arctic to Everglades, wilderness is a haven for nature and a challenging place that can inspire profound personal growth. Listen as a diverse group of Americans share experiences and hopes for these beautiful wild lands.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

7:30 – 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with older children, adults

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3

Common snapping turtle

Wilderness Skills (see page 7 for details) Snakes, Turtles & Fun! (see page 8 for details)

25 • Sunday Breakfast in the Park

Join us for an early morning hike to Hinckley Lake. We will return to a hot, delicious breakfast prepared by our volunteers.

8 – 10 a.m. HiR Redwing Cabin Terrain: 1.5 – 2 miles Register beginning August 1 440-526-1012 Sunday Bird Walk

August brings the end of the breeding season and the beginning of bird migration.

Join us as we scour the forest, wetland, meadow and Lake Erie at Wildwood Park for any and all species. Some binoculars will be available to borrow.

9 – 11 a.m. ECR Wildwood Marina parking lot Terrain: easy, 1 – 1.5 miles Ages: adults, teens 440-253-2153 Headlines in History

Come in to see Historical Interpreter Karen Lakus’ collection of historic headlines from Cleveland newspapers dating back as far as World

Emerald Necklace, August 2013

War II. Browse the display of at least two dozen newspapers and reminisce about some of the most memorable events in recent history. Stop by any time between the times listed.

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. CWC Voyageur Canoe Paddle

Here is your chance to paddle a 34-foot canoe with Cleveland Metroparks historical interpreters. This historic adventure is full of song, story and lessons of the Great Lakes Fur Trade. Eighteen passengers can join our crew on this hour-long paddle.

11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., or 3:30 p.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Ages: individuals, families, groups Fee: $5 Registration required 440-786-8530 Summer Mushroom Foray

Our forests can’t function without fungi. Find out why, and pick up mushroom identification tips, on this summer search with Naturalist Debra Shankland and other members of the Ohio Mushroom Society. All species found during the hike will be documented. Space is limited.

11 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. WCR Monarch Bluff picnic shelter Ages: adults, families Terrain: hills, off-trail, 2 miles Registration begins August 1 440-887-1968

Pollinators

Walk with Seasonal Naturalist Erika Smeader to discover the power of pollination and see it happening right here in Cleveland Metroparks by all our wonderful pollinators.

2 – 3:30 p.m. RRNC Prep for Backyard Birds

Time to prepare your home for backyard birds! Attend this short session where you can ask questions and find out when to put up your feeder, what to feed to attract specific birds and where the best place is to keep your backyard birds safe.

2:30 – 3:30 p.m. GPNC Big Year: Dragonflies and Butterflies

When Look About Lodge opened in 1938, a popular activity was keeping lists of what was seen when hiking.

Join us in creating a nature list for our 75th anniversary during this year-long series.

This month will highlight the dragonflies and butterflies of South Chagrin Reservation.

6 – 8 p.m. SCR Sledding Hill Terrain: slow-paced, 1 mile

In Search of Worms

Join us for a nocturnal hunt for night crawlers. Learn about the different types of worms, where you find them and which ones are alien species. Bring your passport if you are in Kids Club.

7:30 – 9 p.m. NCNC Ages: 7 – 12 years with adult Registration required clevelandmetroparks.com

26 • Monday Wellness Walk (See 8/5 for details)

27 • Tuesday Stroller Science – Insects

This program will allow your little one to get up-close and personal with insects. They will search high and low for these tiny critters and learn what makes them so special through a variety of activities.

10:15 – 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Terrain: easy, paved, 0.5 mile Meadow March

Join a naturalist as we explore and discover the amazing animals that call the meadow home. Magnifiers and nets will be available to help you get a closer look at summer’s secretive insects.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m. GPNC

29 • Thursday Hidden Valley Homeschool: Back to School Scavenger Hunt

Homeschoolers, come into CanalWay Center between the times listed to pick up your clues. Complete the hunt and return to receive a reward. Dress for the weather.

10 a.m. – noon CWC

30 • 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 gap between local history and nature making a comeback.

1 – 3 p.m.

Age: 8 years – adult (under 18 with adult) Fee: $5 Terrain: city streets, 2 miles Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Family Friday Night: Wetlands

Be prepared to get wet and muddy as we explore Sanctuary Marsh in search of frogs, tadpoles, turtles and snakes. Come see what lives in wetlands and learn why these areas are so important to people and wildlife. Kids Club members, bring along your passport.

7 – 8:15 p.m. NCNC Terrain: moderate, wet, 0.5 – 1 mile CanalWay Campfire

Join us for National Toast a Marshmallow Day! We will enjoy an end of summer campfire and plenty of marshmallows for all. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on around the fire ring.

7:45 – 8:45 p.m. CWC Fee: $1 Register beginning August 1 216-206-1000 or clevelandmetroparks.com Sprouts! (see 8/9 for details) CanalWay Cart Tours: Northern Route (see 8/17 for details)

31 • Saturday Birdcalls for Beginners

Want to learn a few birdcalls?

August is a good time of year to focus on a narrower set of post-breeding birdcalls. We’ll start by listening to a few recordings then take a walk to listen for and single out the songs.

9:30 – 10:30 a.m. GPNC Terrain: paved, hills, 1.2 miles

Migrating Monarchs

The monarchs are headed to Mexico! We’ll learn about their amazing natural history then head out to our local prairie and meadow in search of these winged wonders. You must attend this program to be added to our monarch tagging call list.

2:30 – 4 p.m. BNC Terrain: steps, 1.5 miles Register beginning August 1 440-526-1012

Tour de Emerald Necklace

End of Summer Campfire

Join our third pedal as we make our way around the “Emerald Necklace.”

Promoting health and wellness in both body and mind, we will stop at points of interest to discuss cultural and natural history. Brecksville and Bedford reservations will be our highlighted areas.

9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. BrR Seneca Golf Course parking lot Terrain: steep hills, Valley Parkway, 35 miles Registration required 440-786-8530

Summer is near its end.

Celebrate with a night hike around the forest and pond.

As dusk settles we’ll end the evening gathered around a crackling campfire enjoying good company, stories and delicious S’mores. If you are a Kids Club member, bring along your passport.

7:30 – 9 p.m. NCNC Terrain: easy, some hills, 1.5 miles

Nature Inspired Art – Butterflies

Join us at the nature center as we look closely at mounted butterflies and use them as models for our artistic interpretation. Bring along your favorite artist medium and Naturalist Beth Whiteley will guide you as you draw, paint, or sketch these beautiful creatures!

10:30 a.m. – noon GPNC Ages: adults, 10 years & over with adult Register between August 1 – 29 216-341-3152 or clevelandmetroparks.com

For Women Only (see 8/9 for details) CanalWay Cart Tours: Southern Route (see 8/16 for details)

Cleveland Metroparks is proud to serve the following products.

Life in the Hive

Explore the fascinating world of the honeybee with Naturalist Kathy Schmidt, then venture out to our bee hive (or watch through the window).

1 – 2:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with older children, adults

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Cleveland, Ohio Permit No. 2911

4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY

printed on recycled paper

Cleveland Metroparks Directory Administrative Offices

216-635-3200/general Cleveland Metroparks information - 24-hours a day.

4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com 24-hour Job Hotline 216-635-3211 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3200 Volunteer Services 440-253-2142

Ranger Headquarters

4600 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-5530

Accidents or Emergencies 440-333-4911 Parkway Alert Line (PAL) 440-331-5963

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo & The RainForest 216-661-6500/24-hour information.

3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH 44109 clemetzoo.com

Office of the Zoo Executive Director 216-635-3331 Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-661-6500 ext 4356 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3229 School Group Reservations 216-635-3391 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3389 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421

Outdoor Recreation 216-341-1704 Acacia Facility Acacia Reservation 26899 Cedar Road Lyndhurst Food Service/Catering: Dino’s 440-943-1010

Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990 Cross Country Ski Rental 440-331-1070 Rivergate Facility 1785 Merwin Ave Cleveland 216-341-1704 Food Service/Catering: Rivergate Café 216-664-5696

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 Rocky River Reservation 4811 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 18599 Old Lorain Road Cleveland 216-941-9672 Manakiki Golf Course North Chagrin Reservation 35501 Eddy Road Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: Sammy’s of Manakiki 800-837-5899 Mastick Woods Golf Course Rocky River Reservation 19900 Puritas Road Cleveland 216-267-5626 Food Service/Catering: Double Eagle Cafe 216-267-5626 Seneca Golf Course Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway Broadview Heights 440-526-0043 Food Service/Catering: Back 9 Grille 440-546-1555 Shawnee Hills Golf Course Bedford Reservation 18753 Egbert Road Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Shawnee Hills Grille 440-786-7587 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course Brecksville Reservation 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555 Washington Golf Course Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Blvd.

Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799

Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education Administration 216-341-9225 Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530 Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530 NatureTracks Education Unit/ EcoExplorers 216-341-1707 Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010

Outdoor Education Facilities

Swimming

CanalWay Center Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation E. 49th Street entrance Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center Brecksville Reservation 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive Brecksville 440-526-1012 Garfield Park Nature Center Garfield Park Reservation 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 North Chagrin Nature Center North Chagrin Reservation Sunset Lane Entrance Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 Rocky River Nature Center Rocky River Reservation 24000 Valley Parkway North Olmsted 440-734-6660 Look About Lodge South Chagrin Reservation 37374 Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 440-247-7075 Watershed Stewardship Center at West Creek West Creek Reservation 2277 W. Ridgewood Dr. Parma 440-887-1968 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-471-8357 Nature Shops Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Hinckley 330-278-2160 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 Watershed Stewardship Center Parma 440-253-2170

Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs

Boating Emerald Necklace Marina Rocky River Reservation 1500 Scenic Park Drive Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Emerald Necklace Marina Grille 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store Hinckley Reservation West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Township 330-278-2160 Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road, Berea Quarry Rock Café

440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Edgewater Park Lakefront Reservation Cleveland Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café

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.