Emerald Necklace - March 2011

Emerald Necklace March ‘11 Volume 60 #3

Inside: Institute Of The Great Outdoors Catalog

Featuring Cleveland Metroparks program guide and events

Contents Special Events 2 The History Of Maple Sugaring 3 Buzzards! Buzzards! Buzzards!

Features

March 5, 6, 12, & 13 • 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Maple Grove Picnic Area Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted

Columns Notes from the Field Naturalist’s Almanac Inside The Emerald Necklace Zoo News

Although it might sounds easy to turn sticky maple sap into tasty syrup, consider this: it takes 43 gallons of maple sap to make just one gallon of delicious syrup!

In Addition 16 20 22 23 31 32

the History of Maple Sugaring

Drill, tap, collect, boi and enjoy the sweet taste of maple syrup at Cleveland Metroparks History of Maple Sugaring.

12 A Year In the Life Of A Trail

4 6 8 14

Experience the Sweetness of

Institute Of The Great Outdoors Learn With These “Golf Courses” Events By Location Events Calendar Kids Corner Directory

All photos by Casey Batule or Cleveland Metroparks archives unless otherwise noted

Emerald Necklace Published monthly by:

Cleveland Metroparks 216-635-3200 TTY 216-351-0808 clevelandmetroparks.com

Paulette Welch Editor

Nobbynees Ltd. Graphic Design

RR Donnelly Printing Printing

Board of Park Commissioners Bruce G. Rinker

President

Dan T. Moore Vice -President

David W. Whitehead Brian M. Zimmerman Vice-President

Executive Director-Secretary

In late February and early March, Ohio’s maple trees are typically ready to be tapped for maple syrup, including the maple trees in a grove in Rocky River Reservation of Cleveland Metroparks.

On weekends, through March 13, visitors can walk through time along the Sugarbush Trail from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to see the sap-collecting methods and syrup-making processes used by Native Americans, pioneers and modern sugar farmers.

The free History of Maple Sugaring hikes will lead to the Sugarhouse, where guests can watch sap being boiled into delicious, 100-percent pure maple syrup.

Guided public hikes start at the Sugarhouse every 20 minutes (the last hike leaves at 3:40 p.m.).

Northeast Ohio is a major commercial producer of maple sugar due to its prime weather conditions.

The tree’s sap flow depends on temperatures which alternate back and forth past the freezing point (32º F). The best sap flows come when night time temperatures are in the low 20s and daytime temperatures are in the 40s. The longer it stays below freezing at night, the longer the sap will run during the warm day to follow. Most commercial sugaring operations collect sap through interconnected plastic tubing attached to the maple trees, and the maple-sugaring season typically lasts four to six weeks.

For more information or to make a group appointment, call 440-734-6660.

For editorial questions or comments, contact Paulette Welch at 216-635-3205 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 and activities. Special assistance for Cleveland Metroparks programs or facilities is available by calling 216-635-3264 in advance

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Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Maple Grove Picnic Area is located off Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation, between Cedar Point Road and Spafford Road in Brook Park.

Buzzards! Buzzards! Buzzards!

Annual Return of the Buzzards

Tuesday, March 15 • 7 a.m. - ????

Buzzard Roost • Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley We’re all buzzard spotters! The buzzards are bringing spring back north to Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Reservation. Join the Official Buzzard Spotter, Dr. Bob Hinkle and welcome back the world-famous buzzards back to Cleveland Metroparks on March 15. The buzzard watch begins at 7 a.m. and continues until the first buzzard is spotted and everyone cheers their return to the roost (last year the first buzzard clocked in at 7:56 a.m.).

Be sure to bring cameras and a sense of humor. But remember,“No one spots a buzzard until the Official Buzzard Spotter spots one first!”

Buzzard Sunday!

Sunday, March 20 • 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Buzzard Roost Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Celebrate Greater Cleveland’s first unofficial sign of spring at Buzzard Sunday! Turkey vulture fans far and wide gather at Buzzard Roost to cheer on the buzzards return and welcome spring back to Northern Ohio.

Buzzard Sunday! activities include: Hikes & Tours • Hikes - “Early Bird” 9:15 a.m., 10:45 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

• Bus Tours of Hinckley Reservation - 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:15, & 1:15 p.m.

Platform Presentations • Live Birds of Prey Programs - 10 a.m, 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

• Storytelling - 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Tent Activities • Live Music with The Buzzard Boilers - 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

• Buzzard Bingo - on the hour from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

• EarthWords Nature Shop selling unique buzzard merchandise! (see page 7) Exhibits & Other Activities • Wingspan Display • Buzzard Mural Photo Opportunity • NatureTracks • Buzzard Scoreboard • Institute of the Great Outdoors • Voyageur Encampment • Buzzard Nest - Bean Bag Toss • Refreshments for sale • And more!

For more information, call 216-635-3200.

Buzzard Roost is located at the corner of State Road and West Drive in Hinckley Reservation, in Hinckley Township - south of Route 303.

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Party in the Snow

Notes From The Field

Despite the ice and slush and snow, there’s something to be said for March. When I lived in Vermont, March was one of two months lumped together and called “Mud Season”, or what passed for spring in the north country. There, with snow pack often reaching four feet or more on level ground, the promise of spring came more slowly than here in Ohio, and was met with much more enthusiasm.

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I remember one warm (warm is a relative term in Vermont) March day in particular. The temperature rose above twenty degrees for the first time since the prior December, and I was out on snowshoes radio tracking porcupines, part of a research project I undertook to learn more about these prickly fellows. The sun broke through the morning clouds, and began to warm the landscape. As I paused to adjust the telemetry receiver, I glanced down and discovered…soot! Soot on the pristine snows of my beloved Vermont?

Had there been a fire nearby? Looking around, I found only this one patch of tiny black particles, not much larger than the snowshoe so near to them. Puzzled, I looked down to focus and discovered that they were…moving!

Scooping up a handful, I examined them with the hand lens I kept in my day pack and found tiny, almost miniscule insect-like creatures that hopped remarkable distances – out of my hand in fact – and disappeared back into the snow from which they came. Startled,

Emerald Necklace, March 2011

I dropped a few into a specimen jar and took them back to the lab, I found that I had discovered snow fleas, tiny arthropods not quite insects, that appeared as if by magic even on the snowpack whenever the temperature rose much above 25˚ F or so, and seemed especially fond of bring sunshine. Taking advantage of “black body radiation” emitted by the nearby tree trunk, these mysterious little creatures had emerged from the subnivean leaf litter and forest duff below to climb up the much warmer tree trunk and come out to feed on algae and cavort in the snow. Not dozens, not hun-

dreds, but thousands of them, all in one small patch of snow, rejoicing in their snow flea way that winter was coming to an end.

Lest you grow concerned, l reassure you that snow fleas are not fleas at all, and unless you are a almost microscopic- sized piece of green algae, fungi, decaying plant matter, you have nothing to fear. Snow fleas have no interest in other creatures larger than they, except perhaps for predators which might consume them, and will not jump on or live on pets, wild birds or mammals, or you.

The most common snow fleas in this part of Ohio are pinhead-sized, and have elongated dark-colored bodies. They are members of an order of arthropods called Collembola or “springtails�, named for a wonderful Y-shaped fork-like structure attached to their underside rump and folded neatly under their body. When frightened, this furcula as it is called springs down like a mousetrap in reverse and shoots the tiny snow flea amazing distances, so far in fact that in comparison, if snow fleas were human sized, their furcula could propel them the length of more than two football fields with each jump.

ambassadors of spring for yourself. Take a sit-upon along and when you find a patch of them hopping about the snow, sit down nearby and watch for a few moments. They will take no interest in you. Watch their antics and remember that spring is only a few short weeks away.

Robert D. Hinkle, PhD Chief, Division of Outdoor Education rdh@clevelandmetroparks.com

Since that day long ago and far away when I met snow fleas for the first time, I’ve always associated them with the return of spring, a living link between the cold white snow and the promise of new life to come. Though they are present all around us in nature year-round, I take snowy walks in March to look for them, and invite you to discover these tiny 5

Naturalist’s Almanac March

The winds of March bring changes to the natural world of Cleveland Metroparks reservations, but unlike the cold winds of December, these winds begin to blow friendly and warm. March is a month of blue skies and gray; of wind, rain and snow and of the first appearances of wildflowers and migrating birds. March exists as a promise to all creatures of longer days filled with warmth and abundant food and shelter.

By month’s end pussy willows begin to bloom in low wet places throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Days grow longer. Spring is here. Celebrate the arrival of the new season in Cleveland Metroparks with wood frogs, woodcocks and woodchucks.

First Week

Birds Bluebirds may have returned to Hinckley Reservation by now if winter has not been too harsh and cold.

Early migrating robins feed among the holly berries and crab apples throughout Cleveland Metroparks Mammals Where have all the bucks gone? By early March, all but a few of the bucks in Cleveland Metroparks have lost their antlers. It becomes hard to tell male from female deer until the bucks begin to regrow their antlers in early May. Wildflowers Pungent skunk cabbage begins to bloom in low wet places in Cleveland Metroparks valleys. The hooded flower pokes its head up through ice to attract early spring insects.

Second Week

Birds Great blue herons reappear as soon as open water makes fish available for them to eat. They first reappear along Cleveland Metroparks rivers, but quickly move to lakes and ponds as soon as the shore ice melts.

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Third Week

Birds The first of the migrating woodcocks may begin their spring mating flights in certain secret places this week. Watch the nature centers’ program listings and join a naturalist in April to view this spectacle!

The buzzards are back! On March 15, legend has it that the buzzards (turkey vultures) return to Hinckley. Visit the famous Buzzard Roost on the first Sunday after March 15 and watch for the newly-arrived migrants.

Mammals Female woodchucks have awakened to greet the males who awakened in February. Spring comes quickly and summer is only a few weeks away! The rapid changes of April give way to a slower and more stately procession of nature as May begins.

Fourth Week

Birds The phoebe’s raspy “fee-bree” call reassures forest hikers that spring is truly here.

Male goldfinches grow progressively more brilliant yellow each week. Set out fresh thistle seed for them!

The song sparrow, one of the first and most vocal of the spring sparrows, should have arrived by now. The male’s calls begin with three sharp notes, then blur into a melodious trill.

Golden-crowned kinglets return to Cleveland Metroparks on their way northward to Canada. Only half the size of chickadees, they flit continuously from branch to branch in search of food.

Wildflowers Colorful wildflowers at last! The dandelion-like blossoms of the coltsfoot may even poke their determined heads through the snow to bloom. They prefer recently disturbed soils as blooming places.

Watch for them along road cuts and construction sites.

Amphibians Spring peepers “peep” and wood frogs “quack” as their spring mating cycle begins. Shallow temporary ponds in Big Creek, Brecksville, Mill Stream Run and North Chagrin reservations are home to these small frogs for only a few days each spring as mates are found and eggs are laid.

Emerald Necklace, March 2011

THE BUZZARDS ARE COMING! THE BUZZARDS ARE COMING! AND SO IS EARTHWORDS The buzzards and EarthWords Nature Shop will both be arriving at Buzzard Roost in Hinckley Reservation on March 15 for the Annual Return of the Buzzards!

EarthWords will also be there on Sunday, March 20 for the Buzzard Sunday! celebration.

Please come and see what all the excitement is about. You’ll be surprised to see all the new and unique buzzard-y treasures, plus many old favorites. Doesn’t everyone need a Buzzard Party Hat? Buzzard Party Hat One size fits all. $12

Buzzard 12” Plush This is the cutest buzzard you will ever see. $12

Coffee Mugs Pour your hot coffee into our plain black mug and watch the magic happen. A beautiful scene appears with the buzzards soaring high over Hinckley Reservation at sunrise. $12 If you’re not into magic and want to see the beautiful scene all of the time, we now offer the mug without the magical transformation You’ll love our 2011 Return of the Buzzard t-shirt - New styles for adult, youth and toddler.

Visit EarthWords at the North Chagrin Nature Center for Toadally Awesome Amphibian on March 26.

See our selection of amphibian merchandise including: Discovering Amphibians : Frogs & Salamanders Of The Northeast This book covers everything from amphibians’ physiology to their place in folklore. $18.95 Uncover a Frog Uncover the secrets of the amazing frog.

With every turn of the page, the frog is deconstructed before your eyes, as the model demonstrates the hidden workings of the frog’s body. $18.95 Croaking Frog Plush Cute, cuddly and squeezable. $6

CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 4:45 p.m.

Are you a member of Cleveland Zoological Society? Bring your membership card to receive 10% off non-sale merchandise every day!

Subscribe to our free email newsletter to see new products and specials! Send an email to hjs@clevelandmetroparks.com, and type “subscribe” in the subject.

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Frostville Museum Pancake Breakfasts

Sundays, March 6, 13 & 20 • 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Frostville Museum • Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted

Inside the Emerald Necklace

Pancakes, sausage, syrup, orange juice and coffee make for a great day!

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Enjoy a hearty breakfast and then roam the Frostville Museum grounds. If you can’t stay and eat, take-out orders are offered. This annual fundraiser includes unlimited pancakes. Cost is $6 for adults and $4 for children 10 and under. Additional sausages, 3 for $1. Additional juice, 50 cents.

For more information call 440-779-0280.

Frostville Museum is located off Cedar Point Road in Rocky River Reservation, between Valley Parkway and Columbia Road/Route 252 in North Olmsted – just off the I-480/Clague Road exit (westbound) and I-480/ Columbia Road exit (eastbound).

“Toad-ally” Awesome Amphibians

Saturday, March 26 • 2 p.m. – 9 p.m. · Free!

North Chagrin Nature Center · North Chagrin Reservation · Mayfield Village “Toad-ally” Awesome Amphibians is ribbitting! The amphibians are taking over North Chagrin Nature Center. They’re everywhere! Discover how unique amphibians are as they survive on land and in the water at the free “Toad-ally” Awesome Amphibians event.

• • • • • •

• • •

Amphibian crafts and activities: 2 - 5 p.m.

Over 40 different live amphibians: 2 - 5:15 p.m.

Amphibian puppet show: 5:15 p.m.

Tadpole Trivia: 5:45 p.m.

Movie: 6:15 - 7:15 p.m.– Land Invaders - Amphibians Salamander migration walk: bus meets at NCNC parking lot -1 mile- 7:15 – 9:15 p.m.

Family Frog walk: meets at NCNC, 0.5 miles - 7:15 – 8:15 p.m.

General amphibian walk: meets at NCNC - 2 miles - 7:15 - 8:45 p.m.

Wood frog walk: meets at Strawberry Picnic Area arking lot 2 miles , 7:15 - 8:45 p.m.

For more information, call 440-473-3370.

North Chagrin Nature Center is located off Buttermilk Falls Parkway, off the Sunset Lane entrance of North Chagrin Reservation, off SOM Center Road/Route 91 in Mayfield Village – south of the I-90/Rte. 91 exit.

A Gift to Nature and Yourself!

Have you considered a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund? Are you frustrated with current interest rates? If so, perhaps you need to consider a Charitable Gift Annuity to benefit the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund.

Charitable Gift Annuities provide you with a guaranteed stream of income for life, an immediate charitable tax deduction, and benefit Cleveland Metroparks. The high earnings rate - beginning at 5.2% for individuals age 60 and increasing accordingly - make this a highly advantageous gift for you and Cleveland Metroparks. Charitable gift annuities may also be established now with deferred payments to increase your interest rate and provide you with future income.

To learn more about charitable gift annuities or other ways to support Cleveland Metroparks, contact Karen Kannenberg, CFRE, manager of gift and donor development, at 216-635-3217 or kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com to confidentially discuss contribution options to best meet your needs. All gifts to the Emerald Necklace Endowment Fund will protect and preserve Cleveland Metroparks for generations to come.

Emerald Necklace, March 2011

One More Weekend FOR TOBOGGANING! Enjoy one more weekend filled with tobogganing down the chutes at 45-mph at Northeast Ohio’s ultimate winter thrill ride at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes - the only public ice chutes in Ohio!

Public tobogganing hours and promotions are:

Friday, March 4 - 6 - 10:30 p.m. - Star Light, Star Bright with a FREE Lighted Necklace Saturday, March 5 -Noon - 10:30 p.m. - Family 4-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs & 4 Sodas Sunday, March 6 - Noon - 5 p.m. – Family 4-Pack – $30 for 4 Toboggan Passes, 4 Hot Dogs & 4 Sodas

Tobogganing costs $8 for adults and $6 for children, ages 11 and under. One-time ride tickets are available for $3. All riders must wear gloves or mittens. Children, ages 11 and under, must be at least 42-inches tall to ride, and must be accompanied by an adult. For details, call 440-572-9990.

The Chalet Toboggan Chutes are located at 16200 Valley Parkway in Mill Stream Run Reservation, between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville.

American Red Cross Pool and Waterfront Lifeguarding Course Sundays, March 6, 13, 20, 27 • 1 - 5 p.m. • Lakewood High School Pool • Lakewood - AND Tuesdays, March 8, 15, 22, 29 • 5 -9 p.m.

Park Operations Administration • Rocky River Reservation • Fairview Park This course teaches the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies both in a pool and at a waterfront environment. The course content and activities prepare individuals new to life to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies to prevent drowning and injuries.

Participants must be 16 years old on or before the last day of the course. They must be able to swim 550 yards continuously using breaststroke and front crawl, must be able to submerge and retrieve three dive rings in deep water, and be able to swim 20 yards, dive for a 10-lb. object and swim 20 yards back. Cost is $175 and includes materials. A list of things to bring will be given upon registration.

Deadline to register is March 3. For more information, contact Cleveland Metroparks Aquatics Division at 440-331-8111

North Coast Nature Festival

Friday evening, April 15, and Saturday, April 16 Rocky River Nature Center • Rocky River Reservation • North Olmsted The North Coast Nature Festival features presentations by guest speakers, exhibits by nature-related organizations and other nature-minded vendors, hikes for all ages, live animals, digital photography scavenger hunt, a ranger led bike ride, children’s activities, and more. There also will be a special evening presentation Friday night and a night hike on Saturday.

And for the nature-minded art lover, enjoy The Nature Art Show. Local nature organizations will be conducting demonstrations and have exhibits while many local artists and vendors will be displaying their nature-themed arts and crafts for sale on Saturday.

This year’s featured speaker, Laura Erickson from Duluth, Minnesota, has authored four books including 101 Ways to Help Birds and The Bird Watching Answer Book. Erickson, who attended the University of Miinesota, has served as science editor at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and continues to write some entries on their All About Birds webpage. Erickson has rehabbed wild birds for over a decade, and possesses an 11-year-old eastern screech-owl, Archimedes. Erickson has received many awards, including the National Outdoor Book Award in 1997 for Sharing the Wonder of Birds with Kids and he Bronze Passenger Pigeon by the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology in May 2007 “For significant contributions to Wisconsin ornithology.”

For more information about North Coast Nature Festival, call 440-734-6660 or visit clevelandmetroparks.com.

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Ignite your passion for adventure, action, and travel at the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour!

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour has hit the road, with stops planned in about 350 communities and 32 countries across the globe. From approximately 260 films entered into the annual festival, award-winning films and audience favorites are among the films chosen for the tour.

The tour makes a stop at the Masonic Temple and Auditorium at 3615 Euclid Ave. for an exclusive showing in Northern Ohio on Friday, April 15 and Saturday, April 16, 2011.

This year’s tour includes a collection of the planet’s most inspiring and thought-provoking action, environmental, and adventure mountain films. Traveling from remote landscapes and cultures to up-close and personal with adrenaline-packed action sports, the 2010/2011 World Tour is an exhilarating and provocative exploration of the mountain world.

The excitement in Cleveland kicks off with Friday’s Opening Night Reception - a party in the auditorium lobby which features appetizers and dessert, plus additional surpris- From the film ‘Last Paradise’ es. Light appetizers will also be served for Saturday’s reception. Both receptions, which run from 6 to 7:30 p.m., include complimentary Red Bull energy drink, exhibits of interest to outdoor enthusiasts and prize sign-ups. The films start at 7:30 p.m. and last until about 10:30 p.m. (with an intermission).

Tickets to the festival may be purchased on-line at www.theedgefilms.com, or at Geiger’s in Chagrin Falls and Lakewood.

Advance sale prices, through April 7 at midnight, are $35 for Friday night and $30 for Saturday night. Ticket prices increase $5 each on April 8.

On the Edge Films brings the Banff Mountain Film Festival to Cleveland with the support of Cleveland Metroparks, Geiger’s, Cleveland Cupcake Company, Red Bull, Main Street Cupcakes, 56 West, Cuyahoga Valley National Park Assoc., University of Akron, V107.3 and Earth Day Coalition. For more information, visit www.theedgefilms.com or become a fan on Facebook at On the Edge Films to receive updates and film news.

A Run for the Roses!

Saturday, April 16 • 6- 10 p.m.

Chalet Recreation Area • Mill Stream Run Reservation • Strongsville And down the stretch they come….wait, something does not look right. This year’s Derby will be a day everyone will remember at the Chalet Recreation Area. The Dinner Mystery includes the Mystery Players presentation and dinner with assorted beverages and coffee included. Tickets are $40 per person. Advance ticket sales only. Space is limited. For more information and reservations, call 440-572-9990.

Sign Up Now and Help RECLAIM a Guinness World Record

Guinness Book of World Records Canoe & Kayak Challenge Saturday, May 21 • Hinckley Lake • Hinckley Reservation • Hinckley Twp. Calling all canoers and kayakers! Help Cleveland Metroparks reclaim the Guinness Book of World Records Largest Raft of Free Floating Canoes & Kayaks. The record-breaking attempt will take place on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at Hinckley Lake in Hinckley Reservation at the Guinness Book of World Records Canoe & Kayak Challenge.

Cleveland Metroparks broke the record on May 19, 2001 with 776 canoes and kayak and held it for seven years. It was broken once by Inlet, New York with 1,104 boats and then, more recently, in June 2010 by Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with 1,800 boats.

Registration to participate is $10 per canoe or kayak and $7 per person for additional riders in the canoe or kayak. All proceeds will benefit Cleveland Metroparks “Outdoor Education Summer Camp Scholarship Fund.”

For more information, call 216-635-3200 or visit canoeandkayakchallenge.blogspot.com.

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Cleveland Metroparks Golf Season Tees Off March 16 Dust off those clubs because Cleveland Metroparks golf season officially starts March 16, weather permitting.

The eight golf courses will be open daily from dawn to dusk through December.

Located throughout Cuyahoga County, Cleveland Metroparks offers golfers of all ages and skills 144 holes of recreational and educational opportunities.

Sleepy Hollow and Manakiki are considered by many to be the ultimate in public golfing in Greater Cleveland. Experienced golfers will enjoy the challenging layouts, plus clubhouses, pro shops, catering, and PGA pro golf lessons. Golfers also can enjoy Cleveland Metroparks other six quality courses - Shawnee Hills, Big Met, Seneca, Little Met, Mastick Woods and Washington - that have many of the same accommodations, including:

• Snack bars or vending, cart and club rentals are available at all eight courses.

• Pro shops with a guarantee to meet or beat any locally advertised prices on golf merchandise.

• Driving ranges at Sleepy Hollow, Shawnee Hills and Washington.

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

Seneca Golf Course 18 holes, par 72 18 holes, par 71 Brecksville Reservation 975 Valley Parkway, Broadview Heights 216-348-7274 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 Learning Center 9 holes, par 29 & Driving Range Washington Reservation 3841 Washington Park Boulevard, Newburgh Heights 216-641-1864 11

A Year in the Life of a Trail

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ne of the joys of being a naturalist is the freedom to create and present nature programs in every season for a wide variety of audiences. One of the frustrations of being a naturalist is the freedom to create and present nature programs in every season for a wide variety of audiences. Even though program possibilities seem endless, every once in a while the well runs dry. A naturalist needs some inspiration. That’s where Richard comes in.

Richard is a Cleveland Metroparks volunteer and avid program participant. He commented on one of my walks that he would like to attend a program that travels the same trail each month for a year to purposefully observe how nature changes over time.

Inspiration!

In January 2010, One Trail Twelve Times began. Every third or fourth Sunday each month, our group hiked with the same route in Jackson Field, snapping pictures at certain stops. At the end of the hike, we would journal, making note of seasonal changes, wildlife sightings, weather, and interesting finds.

There were a handful of hikers that came to every program or nearly so. This gave us the opportunity to discover answers to nature questions we pondered the month before. How long does it take skunk cabbage seeds to mature? Or experience the life cycle of a yellow buckeye flower from bud to seed. Watch the floodplain flora go from ground level to towering stems.

We witnessed rebirth of the meadow from charred earth after a managed burn to a leaf-laden landscape brimming with new life.

Tadpoles turned to frogs and the river from frozen to flowing to frozen again. These are all things one can see at any given moment on any one outing but experiencing the mysteries and magic of the seasons on a regular basis felt more relational. Jackson Field wasn’t just a meadow, floodplain forest, and river ecosystem but a neighbor, old friend, and companion on a journey.

We stare as children grow, our faces mature as youth fades, TV entertainment schedules begin and end, fashions go in and out, and the work week evolve from manic Mondays to T.G.I.F. Many starts and stops can be found in our everyday lives but when is the last time you watched the one thing that has been cycling since the beginning of time – nature.

Top: February Middle: April Bottom: June 12 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

I’m not speaking of a drive-thru type of visit. I’m suggesting a sit down and stay awhile kind of visit. One where you watch leaves change color, spring wildflowers sprout, single snowflakes gather on hemlock boughs or a fawn walk for the first time. These are the

Many starts and stops can be found in our everyday lives but when is the last time you watched the one thing that has been cycling since the beginning of time – nature. experiences that take nature from leaves to rake and snow to shovel to giver and sustainer of life.

I didn’t expect One Trail Twelve Times to have such a profound effect on me. But it did. I asked more questions and made deeper observations. I particularly enjoyed compiling the photo montage of pictures taken each month. Winter to spring and the lushness of summer were surprising while fall colors slowly unveiling were comforting. Each time I added a photo to the line up, I found myself running through all the images to experience again the transformations. It was a pleasure to share this journey with new and repeat hikers. We got to know Jackson Field and each other.

I’m glad I listened to Richard’s program request. “Are you going to offer this kind of hike again?” Other inspirations have come from our hearty hiking clan. I think Frank will be my next inspiration. “Let’s walk from the highest point in South Chagrin to the lowest.” Spending time with and in nature is one adventure after another with so many discoveries, big and very small, to share. Let nature inspire you!

Barb Holtz Look About Lodge Manager/Naturalist bph@clevelandmetroparks.com

Top: August Middle: October Bottom: December 13

African Elephant Crossing nearing completion at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Anticipation for the May 5 grand opening of African Elephant Crossing is building as spring approaches.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo made headlines over the winter when it announced the return of its three female African elephants, Moshi, Martika and Jo, and with the news that a massive bull elephant named Willy would be joining the three ladies before the exhibit opens.

Zoo News

Moshi, Martika and Jo had been living at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium while African Elephant Crossing was under construction. When work on the elephant areas of the Sydell L. Miller Elephant Care & Visitor Center was completed, the three female pachyderms were able to come home.

Over the last few months, the elephants have been getting used to their new state of the art home. The Visitor Center is vastly different from the old 1950s Pachyderm Building visitors remember. The new facility, while based off the shell of the old building, is much larger and more environmentally friendly.

The elephants’ parlors can be filled with sand, there’s a medical exam parlor with a soft rubber floor and visitors will be able to get a sense of how the keepers work with the elephants at a training wall.

In the next few weeks, frequent Zoo visitors may catch a glimpse of the elephants exploring the outdoor ranges of the exhibit as they familiarize themselves with the grounds before the grand opening. The elephants have already been introduced to the Night Range, an area off public exhibit that allows them outdoor access overnight. The Night Range features thousands of tons of sand for the elephants to dig in or lie on, and radiant heated flooring to keep ice and snow away so they can use it year-round.

14 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Visitors might get to see the elephants and keepers testing out the Crossing Gate, the centerpiece and namesake of the African Elephant Crossing exhibit.

The Crossing is a series of gates that crisscross the paths used by the elephants and the visitors. At different points during the day, the gates will close to visitors allowing the elephants to cross over the human path and travel from one outdoor range to the other. Throughout the rest of the day, the gates will allow people to go from the Welcome Plaza to the African village area in the center of the exhibit. At the Crossing, visitors will be able to get a true sense of the size and majesty of the elephants when they cros the visitors’ path, only 15 feet away from them.

For more information on the grand opening of African Elephant Crossing, visit africanelephantcrossing.com.

Joe Yachanin Marketing & Public Relations Specialist

all photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

St. Patrick’s Day at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo You can do more than just wear green on St. Patrick’s Day this year – you can be green too!

Help the Zoo “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” by bringing an old cell phone and/or charger to the Box Office on Thursday, March 17 and receive one free admission to the Zoo and RainForest (offer valid that day only).

And in keeping with the green theme of the season, anyone wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day will receive half-price admission to the Zoo, making tickets just $3.50 per person, $2.50 for children ages 2-11 and free for children younger than 2 and Zoo members. All you have to do is wear at least one piece of visible clothing that’s green.

Phones donated during the Zoo’s St. Patricks Day event will either be refurbished and reused or recyled by an EPA approved recycler. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Zoo’s conservation and recycling programs.

Summer Day Camp Snow might still be all around, but it’s not too soon to start thinking about summer. Specifically, how to keep your kids busy during their months off!

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo offers Summer Day Camp – a great way for your kids to have fun and keep their minds active over summer break.

The Zoo’s day camp program is expanding this year to three different camps for each age group, and the age limit has been increased to 14.

Kids can spend part of their summer vacations learning about animals and the environment with experienced camp counselors, while taking part in fun and educational daily activities.

Different camps are offered for each age group so kids can sign up for one or all of the weeklong sessions, each filled with opportunities to see Zoo animals up close. Summer Day Camp runs June 20 through August 19.

Registration for children ages 5-14 is right around the corner. Zoo members can sign up early, starting March 1.

General registration begins March 15. Space is limited so check with the Zoo’s Conservation Education department at clemetzoo.com or call 216-635-3391.

Summer Day Camp is presented by Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital.

For the most up-to-date Zoo information: clemetzoo.com / 216-661-6500 15

Institute of the Great Outdoors The IGO Mission: To provide nature based outdoor recreational experiences and classes that enable participants of all abilities to connect with nature.

Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities All IGO programs have been evaluated regarding accessibility and activity level. With our professionally trained staff and ability to make equipment adaptations, most programs are accessible to anyone who would like to participate. For further information regarding program accessibility, or to schedule an accessible custom program, please contact IGO at 216-341-1704.

Program Registration:

Programs are filled on a first come, first served basis, so register early to get a spot.

By Phone: Call 216-341-1704 Monday - Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Have your MasterCard, Visa or DiscoverCard number ready.

In-person: Stop by Garfield Park Nature Center located in Garfield Heights; Monday - Friday between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

By mail / fax: Complete a registration form and send it to the IGO office.

Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 216-341-1704 / 216-341-8528 fax igo@clevelandmetroparks.com On line: Registration forms are available for printing by visiting www.clevelandmetroparks.com

General Information: • • • •

For programs with more than one session, please specify your choice when registering.

A program reminder and location map will be mailed prior to the first program session.

By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the refund policy.

Participants must complete and sign a liability waiver and medical emergency form prior to participation in any program.

• IGO programs are listed bi-monthly in the January, March, May, July, September and November issues of the Emerald Necklace. For more information call 216-341-1704 or visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.

Registration & Refund Policy:

• A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at time of registration for all Escape to Nature programs. Balance is due no less than two months before the pre-trip meeting.

• For all other programs, fees must be paid in full upon registration. Your payment confirms that you are registered for the program. Registration should be made no less than two weeks before a course begins, so please register early. Program fees recover the direct program costs.

• Program fees and deposits are not refundable unless Cleveland Metroparks finds it necessary to cancel a program.

16 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Escapes to Nature

Birding the Rio Grande Valley of Texas

Cleveland Metroparks Chief of Outdoor Education, Bob Hinkle and ardent birder/award winning photographer Kim Hinkle lead you on a birding trip from Falcon Dam to South Padre Island, Texas. This area is famous for spotting some of the best rare and unusual species of birds. Fly to McAllen, Texas where you’ll be picked up to begin your excursion.

The week will include visits to Santa Anna National Wildlife Refuge, host to waders, clay-colored robins and other semitropical surprises. Each day you’ll venture to a different Rio Grande Valley hot spot and end your stay at South Padre Island in search of rails and other wading birds, long-tailed flycatchers and migrating warblers. Previous birding experience is recommended as the trip will be focused on finding as many species in as many habitats as possible. Daily hikes may be as long as 2 miles with mid-day temperatures of 85 degrees.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Pre-trip dates/times: March 8 • 7 - 9 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Trip dates/times: April 3 - 7 Fee: $895 (includes four nights lodging, on-site transportation, specialty checklists, professional guides and trip premium.

Participants must provide meals and transportation to and from Texas.)

Magee Marsh Birding Adventure

Join us to visit one of the hottest spots in the country to watch warblers as they migrate through North America.

Whether you are just learning about birds or are a seasoned birder, this day of winged wonders is sure to delight. Bring your binoculars and birding spirit and we will take care of the transportation and lunch. Registration begins March 9.

Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Trip A: May 3 (Leader: Krynak) Trip B: May 6 (Leader: Gober) Trip C: May 11 (Leader: Weirich) All trips are from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and depart from Garfield Park Nature Center. Transportation also available at Columbia Road RTA park and ride, located off I-90 at 6:15 a.m.

Fee: $49 (Includes transportation, lunch, snacks and field guides)

Cleveland Metroparks Big Birding Day

Join us to put yourself to the test - to find 100+ species in a single day of birding ONLY within Cleveland Metroparks boundaries. Hop on the bus with Naturalist Jen Brumfield and visit at least five reservations recording as many different birds as possible. We’ll travel from the lakeshore to riversides and canals, and then on to prairies and scenic overlooks. Be a part of this official Big Day of serious birding (and serious fun), and help us set a new record for the park system.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Date/Time: April 29 • 5:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Rocky River Nature Center Fee: $45 (includes transportation and lunch)

AuSable River Canoe Camping

Travel to Northern Michigan to experience the wildlife and deep coniferous forests of white pine, aspen and tamarack.

Learn how easy canoe camping is as you paddle for three days and two nights on 30 miles of the clear waters of AuSable, enjoying the blossoming of spring. No previous camping experience needed. Prior to the trip we will meet in one evening session and one on-the-water session to discuss trip planning, equipment needs and other trip details.

Prerequisite: Must have completed Canoe I class within last 2 years.

Ages: adults Pre-trip: June 7 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center and June 15 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Hinckley Lake Trip dates/times: June 19, 8 a.m. through June 22, 10 p.m.

Fee: $295 (includes canoes, paddles and safety equipment, camping gear, permits and other fees.)

Golfing With Nature

Coming this October!

Enjoy a week long getaway to the south this fall in an escape that combines golfing with nature excursions. The week includes golf opportunities at various courses, possible kayaking or canoeing excursions and day hikes. This is a great escape for golfing enthusiasts who would like a little variety or for sightseers and nature lovers who would like a little golf in their trip.

Contact IGO for more details.

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Institute of the Great Outdoors GENERAL RECREATION & SKILLS CLASSES Interpretive GPS Garfield Park Reservation Revealed

Learn how to use a GPS then search for waypoints that tell the stories of those who travelled before us in Garfield Park.

Activity Level: easy Ages: adults Date/Time: April 9 • 1-4 p.m. OR April 23 •1 - 4 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $10

Backpacking Basics

Learn the basics to having a safe and enjoyable backcountry experience. Our knowledgeable staff will cover important topics such as tents, backpacks, water filters, sleeping bags, ground pads, food and clothing.

Ages: 16 years & older (with participating adult) Dates/Times: March 15 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Intergrove Cabin • North Chagrin Reservation Fee: $12.50

Ohio Boaters Education Class

Before boating season starts, learn tools to becoming a safe boater. This three-part class teaches fundamentals of safe boating, state boating laws and more. The last session includes a test for certification of completion and the course meets the mandatory education requirement for those persons born on or after January 1, 1982 who plan to operate a watercraft of ten horsepower or greater.

Ages: 16 years & older (with participating adult) Dates/Times: March 22, 29 & April 5 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Or April 14, 20 & 27 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $15

Backcountry Cooking

Rev up for the upcoming camping season by learning delicious recipes that will take your camp cooking to the next level. Try your hand at making something fun and tasty.

Ages: adults Date/Time: March 22 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Intergrove Lodge • North Chagrin Reservation OR April 5 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Albion Woods Shelter • Mill Stream Run Reservation Fee: $15

Knot Tying for Families

Knots can make your day! A good knot should tie easily, look pretty, be useful and untie almost as quickly as you tied it.

Bring the family together to learn basic knots, their uses and more.

Ages:10 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: March 23• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Fee: $8

18 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Night Navigation

Join us for map and compass instruction indoors then head outside to test your skills at night. Use your newly learned skills to explore the area and search for a hidden surprise.

Dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking boots.

Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: March 29 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Or April 26 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Look About Lodge Fee: $10

American Red Cross First Aid Class

This class will teach you skills to become better equipped to respond to first aid emergencies. Lessons include proper wound care, splinting broken bones and more. Upon completion participants will be qualified to receive American Red Cross First Aid certification good for three years.

Activity Level: easy (must meet ARC requirements) Ages: 16 and up (with participating adult) Date/Time: March 30 • 6 - 10 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Or April 23 • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (bring a lunch) Rocky River Nature Center Fee: $35 (includes certification card and workbook)

CPR/AED – Adult/Child/Infant

This American Red Cross class will provide you with skills to help an infant, child or adult showing signs of respiratory or cardiac arrest symptoms. Materials and American Red Cross certifications will be provided.

Activity Level: easy (must meet ARC requirements) Ages: 16 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: April 2 • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (bring a lunch) Look About Lodge • South Chagrin Reservation or April 10 • 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (bring a lunch) Park Operations • Rocky River Reservation Fee: $55 (includes workbook, certification cards)

Geocaching 101

Learn about geocaching. We will discuss common types of caches; where to find them; how to navigate the geocaching website; and set up our own cache.

Ages: 10 years & up (with participating adult) Date/Time: April 17 • 1 - 4 p.m. OR April 30 • 1 - 4 p.m.

CanalWay Center Fee: $10

Family Fishing

Celebrate Ohio’s free fishing days with IGO. Learn basic casting skills, fishing knots and fish identification while trying to catch some fish. No fishing license needed.

Ages: 5 years & up with participating adult (open to all abilities) Dates/Times: May 7 or 8 Session 1: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Session 2: 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Wallace Lake Fee: $3 first person, $2 each additional person (equipment and bait provided)

Kayaking for Teens

Need a break from your typical routine? Join us to learn basic kayaking skills. The class will include both classroom and on-the-water instruction. See Kayaking I class description for details.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 13 - 16 years Date/Time: May 7 • 3 - 6 p.m.

Lakewood High School: Fee: $25 (includes boats & equipment)

Wilderness First Aid

Join us for a two-day workshop to learn wilderness first aid skills from experts in the field. Designed specifically for groups and their leaders, the workshop stresses preparedness for first aid emergencies when help is an hour or more away. Classroom lectures and discussions will be combined with hands on experiences in the field. The curriculum includes assessment and treatment of specific injuries, long term patient care and more. Mock rescues will be practiced in the field allowing participants to practice skills learned in class. Scout leaders are encouraged to attend as this course meets the Boy Scouts of America requirements for backcountry training.

Activity Level: moderate Ages: adults Date/Time: May 14 - 15 • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Buckeye Shelter • North Chagrin Reservation Fee: $195 (includes lunch, instruction text and first aid supplies)

CANOEING & KAYAKING Kayaking I: Introduction to Kayaking

Feeling “cooped up” due to the weather? Learn to kayak in the comfort of a pool. We combine classroom and on-the-water practice to introduce you to equipment, practice basic paddling strokes and more. Participants should be prepared to get wet during the pool session.

Activity Level: easy Ages: 16 years & over (with participating adult) April 2 • 3 - 6 p.m. OR April 30 • 3 - 6 p.m.

Lakewood High School Fee: $30 (includes boats & equipment)

Kayak Rescues

It’s a great time of year to learn kayak rescues and reentry skills in the comfort of a pool. Join trained kayak instructors for an in-depth session of kayak safety. Come dressed to get wet as most of the class is on the water.

Activity level: Moderate Ages: 16 and over (with participating adult) April 9 • 3 - 6 p.m.

Lakewood High School Fee: $30 (includes boats & equipment)

BACKPACKING & CAMPING

Backpack the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania

It’s time to dust off your backpack and explore one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful areas. The West Rim Trail is considered by many to be the most scenic in Pennsylvania due to its sweeping vistas of the canyon and Pine Creek, numerous waterfalls, and the lush fern covered forest floor. We will be hiking a large section of this linear trail with mileage varying each day - the longest day will be roughly 9 miles.

Activity Level: moderate (hilly, meant for intermediate backpackers) Ages: adults Pre-Trips: April 19 & April 26 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Garfield Park Nature Center Trip Dates: May 6 - 8 Fee: $85 (permits, shuttles and camping gear provided)

19

LEARN WITH THESE “GOLF COURSES”

Are you one of the estimated 27 million people who consider themselves “highly interested” in learning to golf? Or, are you a golfer who would like to improve your short game, or learn how to drive for distance? Then check out these golf learning opportunities available from Cleveland Metroparks Academy of Golf.

Indoor Spring Training

Get an early jump on the season ahead. These two-hour sessions are designed to help you take advantage of practice time before the weather breaks in the spring. You’ll have a game plan in place covering areas of your swing that need work for a better golf experience. A maximum of 10 participants. Fee is $20.

Date Sat., March 12 Sat., March 19

Time 10 a.m.

10 a.m.

Location Sleepy Hollow Manakiki

Instructor Fiander/Staker Kochensparger

Golf Fitness - Introduction - 500 Series Learn how to improve your swing, help avoid injury and hit the ball farther through improved fitness. Golf specific stretching and strengthening exercises will be taught along with the connection between swing faults and fitness deficiencies. Wear comfortable clothing! Call 440-526-4285 for more information. $30 Date Sat., April 9 Tues., April 12

Time 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Location Sleepy Hollow Sleepy Hollow

Instructor Fiander Fiander

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. A maximum of 7 students will be accepted in each class. Students in this class should be beginners to 25 handicap.

Date Time Thu. April 7 - 28 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Sat. April 9 - 30 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Sat. April 9 - 30 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Mon. April 11 - May 16 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Tue. April 12 - May 3 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Mon. April 18 - May 16 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Mon. April 18 - May 23 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Thu. April 21 - May 26 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location WGLC WGLC WGLC WGLC WGLC WGLC Shawnee Shawnee

Fee $100 $100 $100 $150 $100 $125 $150 $150

Instructor Short Short Short Staker Staker Staker Taylor Taylor

Junior Programs - Homeschoolers Golf Phys Ed This 6-week program is designed for home-schooled juniors 10 to 15 years of age. The skill level best suited for this class would be beginner to intermediate. The first two to three weeks will be practice and skill building on all parts of the game.

The last 3 to 4 weeks will be playing golf in a supervised setting. The fee includes instruction, range balls, green fees, use of pull carts, and loaner equipment as needed. Fee is $95.

Date Tues., April 19 - May 24

Time 1 - 3 p.m.

Location Washington

Instructor Staker

Junior “Fun”damental Series Designed like our Adult Beginners classes, juniors will get a chance to learn the basics, but have fun too. Full swing, putting and chipping will be covered by our best junior instructors. A maximum of 6 participants per class.

Call 216-641-1864 for more information. Ages 12 – 17. Fee is $80.

Date Mon., April 18 - May 9

Time 4 - 5:30 p.m

20 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Location Washington

Instructor Staker

Classes fill up early. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for complete class schedules.

For more information or to register, call 440-232-7247

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Log Cabin Discoveries - Spring into Fun! Monday, March 21 • 10 - 11 a.m. OR 1 - 2 p.m.

For children ages 4 - 6 Fee: $15/child; members $10/child Become a nature detective as you explore the hiking trails and gardens, encounter an animal, sing, dance to music or listen to a story. Fun themes and activities await your discovery during each one-hour session! Pre-registration required.

Animals A La Mode Sunday, March 20 • 11 a.m.

For families with children of all ages Fee: $5/person (children one and under free) Live animals take center stage in this upbeat, interactive and educational show. A collection of live creatures captivates the whole family! Cap it off with a serving of delicious ice cream.

Animal program runs about 30 minutes. Pre-registration required.

St. Patrick’s Day Thursday, March 17 • 10 - 11:30 a.m.

For children ages 1 - 5 with an adult Fee: $5/child Take a holiday “play-cation” with us! Learn a little about St. Patty’s Day, meet an animal, make a craft, read a story, and of course PLAY! This free-flow program will allow you and your little one to move at your own pace, make new friends and focus on what you enjoy best. Pre-registration required.

Spring Classes

It’s chilly outside, but think spring! Our 10-week spring session begins the week of February 28 and runs through the week of May 16 (except for spring break, the week of March 28 and Easter break, the week of April 25). This session includes our parent/ child class Frogs & Polliwogs and our Preschool/Pre-K and Kindergarten classes: Nature Nuts and Log Cabin Explorers Club.

Other spring classes offered include After School Adventures Club, Log Cabin Discoveries, Wild Things and Junior Naturalists.

Log on to www.lensc.org, for a complete listing and details of programs.

Walter R. Schuele Planetarium Family Programs* Twinkle Tots Thursdays & Saturdays • 11 a.m.

Fee: $1/person (including infants) This is a program for the toddler in your family. Watch lights dance across the sky, see some magic and learn what’s new in space. This program is fun for just about everyone in the family!

Stellar Stars Wednesdays • 11 a.m. & Saturdays • noon Fee: $2/child Grab your passports, blast off to a new planet and find a different picture in the stars each week. Watch lasers moving to music, take home a planet picture to color and add a sticker to your passport. Great for children 2 years and up!

Backyard Astronomy Saturdays • 1 p.m.

Fee: $2/person Explore the night sky as it appears from your very own backyard! View winter constellations and other objects visible in the Northeast Ohio sky. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Monthly Skyquest: March Madness Saturdays, March 5, 12, 19 & 26 • 2 p.m.

Fee: $2/person Saturday, March 5 & 19 • 7 p.m.

Fee: $3/person A Bee-Hive, goodbye to Jupiter, good morning Venus and a very special hello to Mercury! Mercury, who is about to be seen in the evening sky, is on the brink of receiving a permanent resident from Earth. The Messenger space probe arrives at Mercury this month - we will have details and some new photos. You will also hear an update on Earth’s very speedy probe, New Horizons, as it heads to everyone’s favorite dwarf planet, Pluto. Don’t forget - this is the perfect time of year to view the last of winter’s best sights in the telescopes!

*Door closes promptly at posted start time for all star shows.

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

21

March Events by Location Off-site Programs

24 • Urban Explorations: Burke Lakefront Airport 25 • Urban Explorations: Idea Center

(BeR) Bedford Reservation

13 • Late Winter Bird Hike 13 • Woodlands of Bedford: Leprechaun Hunt

(HiR) Hinckley Reservation

4 • For Women Only 15 • Annual Return of the Buzzards 20 • Buzzard Sunday!

24 • Around the Emerald Necklace

(HuR) Huntington Reservation

(LENSC) Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

28728 Wolf Rd., Huntington Reservation, Bay Village 440-871-2900 5 • The Opossum 19 • The Turkey Vulture: Buzzard, Bird-of-Prey, or Stork?

(BCR) Big Creek Reservation

27 • 5 Mile Sunday 29 • Hidden Story Hike 31 • The Sky Dance of the Woodcock

(BrR) Brecksville Reservation

1 • Hiking for the Young at Heart 12 • Eagle Watch

(NCR) North Chagrin Reservation

5 • Families Explore: Vernal Pool 9 • Mid-Week After Work Hike 12 • Birds and Coffee 16 • Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Gross Nature 19 • Swamp Hike 27 • Amphibian Exploration

(BNC) Brecksville Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Rt. 82 entrance, Brecksville 440-526-1012 5 • Tree Bark Dog Walk 10 • Around the Emerald Necklace 10 • 11 • 12 • For Adults Only: Conifers 13 • Cabin Fever Hike 23 • Animal Crackers 31 • March of the Amphibians

(NCNC) North Chagrin Nature Center

Open Daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mayfield Village 440-473-3370 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 440-449-0511 5 • Kenya Safari - Through the Eyes of Children 6 • Dog Hike 11 • Family Friday Night: Canine Cousins 13 • Sunday Bird Walk 13 • Spring Wildflowers 101 16 • Trail Trackers: Geology Rocks 18 • Friday Movie Night - The Cold Blooded Truth 19 • Twenty Five Years of Waterfowl 20 • In Search of…Skunk Cabbage 20 • Sing in the Spring 22 • Stroller Science 25 • Family Friday Night: The Princess and the Frog 31 • Preparation of Spring Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East 7 • 21 • Monthly Meeting

(CWC) CanalWay Center

Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Off E. 49th St., Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Hts., 216-206-1000 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m. 216-206 1 • CanalWay “Quilters of the Valley” Display 1 - 31 • Hunt of the Month 12 • Living History: Victorian Tea Etiquette 18 • Hidden Valley Homeschoolers: Celebrating Women’s History Month 18 • CanalWay CoffeeHouse 19 • Coffee at the Feeders 24 • Preschoolers: The Lorax 26 • Hike & Soup 26 • Acoustic Players Circle 30 • History & a Brown Bag Lunch: Women’s History Month 29 • Woodcock Watch Cleveland Astronomical Society 3 • Monthly Meeting

(OECR) Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation 15 • Winter Walk

(RRR) Rocky River Reservation

12 • American Red Cross Pet First Aid Olmsted Historical Society 6 • 13 • 20 • Frostville Museum Pancake Breakfasts

(ECR) Euclid Creek Reservation 4 • End of the Work Week Walk

(RRNC) Rocky River Nature Center

Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted 44070 440-734-6660 EarthWords Nature Shop Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Sun. noon - 4:45 p.m 440-734-7576 5 • 6 • 12 • 13 • History of Maple Sugaring 10 • Homeschool Happenings 12 • Second Saturday Storytelling 13 • 27 • Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center 17 • Cocoa with the Beavers 17 • Inviting the Planet to Dinner: The World According to Monsanto 19 • Monthly Morning with the Birds 19 • Froggy Full Moon!

19 • Survival Adventure – Heading West 20 • Spring Book Review 20 • School of the Wilds - Invasion of the Aliens!

21 • 22 • Little Explorers 25 • Amphibian Adventure 26 • Cinema Saturday Night - John James Audubon: Drawn From Nature 27 • Moving Toward a More Positive Climate 31 • Walk to the Beaver Lodges Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society 1 • Monthly Meeting Cleveland Metroparks Southwest Camera Club 7 • 21 • Bi-monthly Meeting Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association 9 • Monthly Meeting Trout Unlimited 15 • Monthly Meeting

(SCR) South Chagrin Reservation Look About Lodge

Open for scheduled programs. Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91, Bentleyville 440-247-7075 6 • Mystery of the Hungry Chipmunk 6 • The Lodge is Open!

5 • 12 • 19 • “3-D” Drawing Nature Workshop 12 - 13 • Women’s Nature Overnight 20 • Nature 101: Let’s Make a Walking Stick 24 • Green Time 26 • Hike for your Supper Cleveland Natural Science Club 19 • Monthly Meeting

(WCR) West Creek Reservation 10 • Talking Tracks 29 • Spring-in at West Creek

(GPNC) Garfield Park Nature Center Open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Broadway Ave. or Turney Rd. entrance, Garfield Heights 216-341-3152 6 • The Sunday Saga 17 • Leprechaun Hunt 19 • 4/2 • Heritage Hobbies: Spinning 20 • Pine Tree ID 23 • Secret Salamanders 27 • Art in the Park Part 1 Sketching the Signs of Spring 27 • Poetry in the Park

Each month, look for the

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

Outdoor Adventures With IGO

The Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) offers year-round courses in canoeing, backpacking and more, plus Escapes to Nature throughout the U.S. and Canada. For details, visit www.clevelandmetroparks.com.

Cleveland Metroparks is celebrating the “Year of the Forest” symbol next to Cleveland Metroparks special “Year of the Forest” related programs and events

22 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

March Events Calendar 1 • Tuesday Hiking for the Young at Heart Hiking can be muddy or it can be icy. Let’s put our hiking boots on and see what other surprises await us on the trail! Naturalist Debra Shankland will lead this hike down the valley and along the ridge tops.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. BrR Station Road Bridge Trailhead Terrain: hilly, may be slippery, 3.5 miles CanalWay “Quilters of the Valley” Display Come view samples of stitchery of two Cuyahoga Valley women from the 1870s to 1940s. This collection is from quilt blocks handed down

Cleveland Metroparks Maps

Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for maps of Cleveland Metroparks 16 reservations.

Or, call 216-635-3200 and request a Pathfinder Map & Guide. from two pioneer families, the Ozmuns from Peninsula and the Footes of Brooklyn Heights. Through March 31.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000 Hunt of the Month Stop by and test your luck… this month we have an Irish hunt for you to complete.

You will have to search throughout CanalWay Center for 20 hidden clovers.

See how many you can find.

Through March 31.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CWC

Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society “Stopover Habitat: Stories From Two Field Sites” When you travel you need to take a break. When birds travel, they too need to stop.

Jennifer Mizen has been looking into two stopover habitats used by birds, Lake Erie’s southern shore and Mississippi’s Gulf Coast.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Cleveland Astronomical Society Join us for an interesting presentation related to the astronomy field.

8 p.m. CWC

4 • Friday For Women Only Come join other women for exercise and camaraderie as we recharge after a busy week. Weather conditions will determine the final distance. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a water bottle, and invite a friend.

10 a.m. - noon HiR Hinckley Hills Trailhead Terrain: hills, 2 - 4 miles 440-526-1012 End of the Work Week Walk Start your weekend with a leisurely after work hike along Euclid Creek. We’ll look for animal tracks to see what animals share this park with us.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. ECR Highland Picnic Area parking lot Terrain: incline, may be muddy, 1.75 miles 440-473-3370

5 • Saturday “3-D” Drawing Nature Workshop: Part 1 Experience nature in a new way. In this 3-part workshop, we will draw nature in three different media. Express your creative side; no artistic experience necessary. Participants should attend all three sessions.

9 a.m. - noon SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adults Registration required 440-247-7075

23

Tree Bark Dog Walk Get to know some trees just by their bark on this naturalist-guided hike. Wellmannered dogs are welcome to come along. Families and walkers without dogs welcome.

10 - 11:30 a.m. BNC Terrain: hills, stairs Register beginning February 21 440-526-1012 Families Explore: Vernal Pool Join Naturalist Angelec Hillsman to explore one of the extraordinary vernal pools in North Chagrin Reservation.

On this exciting outing, discover what vernal pools are, what types of critters depend on them and why they are important.

10 - 11:30 a.m. NCR Strawberry Picnic Area parking lot Ages: 6 years & over Terrain: easy, muddy, 1.5 miles The Opossum Come and visit with one of our most interesting educational animals. The lives of these ubiquitous, trasheating suburban animals are poorly understood by most.

After listening, seeing and touching, you will leave with a newfound appreciation for these unique animals. Free.

3 p.m. LENSC 440-871-2900

Kenya Safari - Through the Eyes of Children The wildebeest’s annual migration influences the behavior of other animals - both predator and prey.

Muizz (11) and Aziz (9) Hassanali will share their experience of a safari in Kenya during the Great Migration. The trip takes you through three National Parks: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Mt. Kenya.

7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC History of Maple Sugaring (see page 2 for details)

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

2 - 3:30 p.m. NCNC Terrain: may be muddy, 1.5 - 2 miles History of Maple Sugaring (see page 2 for details) Frostville Museum Pancake Breakfast (see page 8 for details)

6 • Sunday

7 • Monday

Mystery of the Hungry Chipmunk The Look About Lodge chipmunk is almost out of the food it stored up for the winter and would really like a snack! Pick up a map anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to help our chipmunk find its acorns and you’ll be rewarded with a treat.

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Terrain: on trail, .5 miles

Cleveland Metroparks Southwest Camera Club Ever wonder how those daily papers keep up with their photography needs? A Plain Dealer staff photographer will tell us about what he or she is working on.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC

The Lodge is Open!

Drop by Look About Lodge this afternoon to enjoy the beauty and nature that surround it.

Noon - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge The Sunday Saga Gather around the fire to hear fables of Ohio animals and the world around us.

Come in from the cold and allow your imagination to run wild. After the story, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and explore the exhibits.

Stories told on the hour. Join us for some or all of them.

1 - 4 p.m. GPNC

24 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East Trees - Whether bark, roots or crowns, bring in a maximum of 10 images of your best pictures that demonstrate that nothing’s as lovely as a tree.

8 - 10 p.m. NCNC

9 • Wednesday Mid-Week After Work Hike It’s the month of green. Today, we will hike among the greenery of our native white pines and Eastern hemlocks as we explore the bridle and White Pine trails. We will also be investigating early signs of spring.

5:30 - 7 p.m. NCR Squire’s Castle parking lot Terrain: dirt trail, hill, moderate pace, 2.5 miles

Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association Denzil St. Clair is a well-respected beekeeper with over 40 years experience with bees. He will touch on the various viruses and pests associated with beekeeping.

7 - 9 p.m. RRNC

10 • Thursday Talking Tracks Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield on an animal tracking expedition through the fields and woods of West Creek.

Although tough to find, we may discover mink and coyote tracks among other special animal signs in Parma’s “big backyard.”

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. WCR Ages: adults, families Terrain: moderate, mostly flat, 1.25 miles 216-341-9225 Around the Emerald Necklace Cleveland Metroparks naturalists are excited to share their favorite trails around the Emerald Necklace with you. These hikes will rotate throughout most of the reservations within Cleveland Metroparks. Our hope is to introduce you to a few spots that will become your favorites as well.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. BNC Terrain: hills, 3 - 3.5 miles Homeschool Happenings Join Naturalist Min Keung to learn about maple sugaring.

We will go for a short walk outside to look for sugar maples and learn about the history of maple sugaring.

1:30 - 3 p.m. RRNC Ages: 6 - 12 years Terrain: may be snowy, some stairs, 0.5 mile Registration required 440-734-6660

For Adults Only: Conifers Is it cedar, pine or spruce?

Take the confusion out of conifers by examining our local evergreens. In this three-part program (also March 11 & 12), you’ll learn about tree structure, seeds, and how to identify conifers using keys.

This workshop combines two evenings of classroom and lab learning with actual practice in the field Saturday afternoon. Participants must attend all three parts.

7 - 9 p.m. BNC Ages: adults, 16 years & up Register beginning February 21 440-526-1012

11 • Friday Family Friday Night: Canine Cousins Bring your family out to the park for a howling good time. Tonight, discover the canines that may be found in your backyard. We’ll learn about coyotes and foxes, and talk about the history of the wolf in Ohio. Then we’ll take a hike outside to look for canine tracks.

6:30 - 8 p.m. NCNC Ages: families Terrain: may be muddy, 1 mile For Adults Only: Conifers (see 3/10 for details)

12 • Saturday Birds and Coffee Join us as we enjoy the birds visiting the feeders as we sip on hot coffee. We will discuss how to attract birds to your own backyard and behaviors of the birds that are being observed. This is great opportunity to have your bird questions answered. Space is limited.

9 - 10 a.m. NCR Nature Education Building Ages: adults & families Register beginning March 1 440-473-3370 Eagle Watch We will hike to Pinery Narrows with the hope of catching a glimpse of our resident eagles. This month the pair should be incubating an egg or two. Be sure to bring your binoculars.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. BrR Plateau Picnic Area Terrain: flat, 4 miles Living History: Victorian Tea Etiquette Lucille Wingard, founder of the Ladies of Victoriana Tea Society, presents this interactive program about the art and mystery of tea etiquette.

Find out how to properly hold a teacup, if you “have” or “take” tea, and other customs. BYOTC (bring your own teacup.) Hot tea provided.

1 - 3 p.m. CWC Ages: 12 years & older Register beginning March 1 216-206-1000

American Red Cross Pet First Aid Pet First Aid teaches participants emergency care procedures for cats and dogs and provides tips for keeping your pet safe and healthy too. Participants will learn how to protect themselves and the animal from further harm, injury, or suffering during emergencies by learning prompt, effective first aid actions and care. Training will be conducted on canine and feline manikins to give participants a more realistic experience in providing care.

Class size limited.

1 - 5 p.m. RRR Park Operations Administration Fee: $40 (includes Dog or Cat First Aid Book/DVD) or $55 (includes Dog and Cat First Aid Books/DVDs) Register by March 9 440-331-8111 Women’s Nature Overnight Ready for the warmth of spring? Revitalize your spirit at Look About Lodge. Join naturalist Barb Holtz for this women’s retreat designed for reflection and fun. Come ready to take part in indoor activities, hiking and sleeping on the Lodge floor.

6 p.m. (3/12) – 10 a.m.

(3/13) SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adults Fee: $20 Terrain: some hills, 2 - 3 miles Register by March 9 440-247-7075

Second Saturday Storytelling Kharinne Shinaul brings herself and other characters -- channeled through her delightful stories. Join us for her presentation, then enjoy refreshments and a story swap time where YOU can tell a short story if you wish.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC 440-734-6660 For Adults Only: Conifers (see 3/10 for details) History of Maple Sugaring (see page 2 for details) “3-D” Drawing Nature Workshop: Part 2 (see 3/5 for details)

13 • Sunday Sunday Bird Walk Song sparrows singing, cardinals a calling and buzzards returning can only mean one thing…Spring is on its way! Join us as we enjoy the beginnings of migration and celebrate those already setting up territories. Some binoculars will be available to borrow.

9 - 11 a.m. NCNC Ages: adults & families Terrain: easy, 2 miles Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center Better than binoculars, you will see intricate details of birds as we capture and band the birds from the feeder.

Learn about bird banding, an essential tool for learning about our feathered friends.

Program will be cancelled during rain. Drop in any time between the hours below.

9:30 a.m. - noon RRNC

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Spring Wildflowers 101 Before the wildflower season is in full bloom, join us for an educational look at our commonly seen spring wildflowers. The perfect refresher or a great chance to learn if you’re just beginning to explore what nature has to offer.

1 - 2:30 p.m. NCNC Late Winter Bird Hike Meet us at the Bridal Veil Falls overlook as we hike into Bedford Reservation looking for the last of the visiting winter birds. Maybe we will see some early spring returning species on this brief hike.

1 - 2 p.m. BeR Bridal Veil Falls parking lot Terrain: moderate, some hills, 2 miles 216-341-3152 Woodlands of Bedford: Leprechaun Hunt Search for the elusive Bedford “Leprechaun” on this hike through the woodlands around Sagamore Creek. We will also try to locate his rainbow leading to the hidden pot of gold. Volunteer Naturalist Fred Losi will lead this magical adventure through the late winter beauty.

2 - 4 p.m. BeR Alexander Road bike lot Terrain: rugged, hilly 216-341-3152

Cabin Fever Hike Spring is coming soon! Beat the winter blues with a hike on the Deer Lick Cave Trail.

Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis to search for signs of spring.

2 - 4 p.m. BNC Terrain: hills, slippery 4 miles History of Maple Sugaring (see page 2 for details) Frostville Museum Pancake Breakfast (see page 8 for details)

15 • Tuesday Winter Walk This Winter Walk could be quite windy. We will follow the towpath over the bridges of the hidden valley. Perhaps we will spot some signs that spring is coming.

1 p.m. OECR Bacci parking lot Terrain: two bridges, paved 216-206-1000 Trout Unlimited (TU) Trout in the Classroom (TIC) - Rochelle Gandour, TIC National Coordinator, will discuss TU’s premier cold-water conservation and youth education program, Trout in the Classroom. TIC is a handson educational program that can be adapted to any grade level and can incorporate any curriculum.

7 - 9 p.m. RRNC Annual Return of the Buzzards (see page 3 for details)

26 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

16 • Wednesday Trail Trackers: Geology Rocks Every rock and pebble tells a story of how the Earth was shaped and changed. Let’s explore rocks, dirt and erosion with hands on activities. Wear clothes that can get dirty.

10 - 11 a.m. or 1 - 2 p.m. NCNC Ages: 3 years - K with adult Terrain: uneven, dirt trail, 0.5 mile Register beginning March 1 440-473-3370

Leprechaun Hunt On St. Patrick’s Day sneaky little leprechauns are hiding in the forests of Garfield Park Reservation. Join Naturalist Stacey Allen for a story about how the leprechauns give us the trees. Then go on a short self-guided leprechaun hunt.

You will be rewarded with “gold”!

3:30 - 4:30 p.m. GPNC Ages: 3 - 8 years with adult Registration required 216-341-3152 Inviting the Planet to Dinner: The World According to Monsanto The race is on to genetically engineer and patent the world’s food supply. Come and learn more about a major world corporation’s impact on our food, health, environment and economy with this film. A short discussion will follow. Free.

7 - 9 p.m. RRNC

Outdoor Education for Homeschoolers: Gross Nature Come study the gross, but cool side of nature! We will take a closer look at some local plants and animals that are slimy, stinky, and simply gross through a slide show, activity and more.

12:45 - 2:15 p.m. NCR Nature Education Building 18 • Friday Ages: 6 - 12 years Register beginning March 1 Hidden Valley 440-437-3370 Homeschoolers: Celebrating Women’s 17 • Thursday History Month March is Women’s History Cocoa with the Beavers Join Naturalist Min Keung Month and this year’s nato walk to the beaver lodges. tional theme is “Our History Come back to the nature is our Strength.” Activities center after our walk for a during this program will fowarm cup of cocoa to finish. cus on local women whose strength and perseverance 2 - 3:30 p.m. RRNC have made a big impact in Terrain: may be snowy, the history of our commusome stairs, 1.5 miles nity and beyond.

1 - 2:30 p.m. CWC Ages: 7 - 11 years Register beginning March 1 216-206-1000

CanalWay CoffeeHouse We are still celebrating St. Patrick’s Day! Come prolong the fun with The Terriers.

This folk band will bless us with traditional Irish music and raise our spirits with American folk music selections too! Bring your friends and family and settle in for a Celtic evening.

7:30 - 9 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000 Friday Movie Night – The Cold Blooded Truth Join us tonight as we explore the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians. Come discover the amazing parental and breeding behaviors of these creatures as displayed with breathtaking footage and amazing action photography. Popcorn will be served.

Doors open at 7:15 p.m.

7:30 -8:45 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, 10 years & over with adult

19 • Saturday Monthly Morning with the Birds Take a walk in the wilds with Naturalist Ken Gober in search of residents and early migrants. Bring binoculars, friends and your favorite field guide.

9 - 11 a.m. RRNC Coffee at the Feeders Winter time is a great time to drink coffee and watch the birds. Which ones stay in our area the entire year and which ones are just visitors?

We will sit inside by the windows and watch as the birds visit the feeders. Stop in for a few minutes or sit and stay a while.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. CWC

Swamp Hike Join Naturalist Tim Krynak as we hike to the swamp to search for migrant waterfowl and early redwing blackbirds.

We will be hiking off trail through wet and muddy conditions.

1:30 – 3 p.m. NCR Wilson Mills Rd. parking lot Ages: adults & teens Terrain: hills, mud & off-trail

Survival Adventure Heading West Play the real “Survival Game”.

Your family from “back east” in Connecticut has decided to pack up and move to the rich new land of Ohio’s Western Reserve. Tonight, find out if you will survive the dangers faced on the trail.

7 - 8:30 p.m. RRNC Ages: families with school age children Registration required Heritage Hobbies: Spinning 440-734-6660 Come learn to drop spindle the modern way! We will Cleveland Natural compare modern fibers with Science Club traditional fibers. Everyone “Life and Times of the you will get a drop spindle, Honeybee” with Walter and and several fibers to spin. Linda Jorgensen During the first class we will 7:30 p.m. SCR learn to spin. During the sec- Look About Lodge ond class on April 2 we will learn to ply and finish the Twenty-Five Years yarn, and try other fibers. No of Waterfowl experience is necessary, but Over the past quarter cenpatience is required. Supplies tury, there have been some will be limited, so register dramatic changes in local early to ensure a space. waterfowl populations. Learn 2 - 4:30 p.m. GPNC which ones were planned Ages: 16 years & older, adults and which were natural. We Fee: $30 will go outside to see how Registration required many waterfowl are around 216-341-3152 tonight.

7:30 - 8:30 p.m. NCNC The Turkey Vulture: Terrain: paved, level, .05 mile Buzzard, Bird-of-Prey, or Stork?

Froggy Full Moon!

With the help of our live Join Naturalist Bethany turkey vulture, we’ll explore Majeski for a fun night hike. the misconceptions and fas- If the weather’s right, we may cinating truths about this hear some of the first amcommonly misunderstood animal. Director of Wildlife phibians singing their spring Dave Wolf will explain how breeding songs. Dress for rain this animal suddenly changed and mud! ancestors. We’ll also discuss 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. RRNC vomiting, bed-wetting, even Ages: adults, families nose-picking! Are we talking Terrain: muddy, some stairs, about children or wildlife? 1.5 miles Not for the weak of stomach but everyone welcome! Free.

“3-D” Drawing Nature 3 p.m. LENSC Workshop: Part 2 440-871-2900 (see 3/5 for details)

27

20 • Sunday Pine Tree ID What better time of year to learn to identify your coniferous trees? Join a naturalist as we look at cones, needles and bark to distinguish pine trees from our firs and spruces. Dress for the weather.

1 - 2:30 p.m. GPNC Terrain: gravel, some hills, 1.5 miles Nature 101: Let’s Make a Walking Stick Nothing like a sturdy staff to support your steps while hiking hills and valleys. Spend the afternoon creating your own walking stick, making it as ornate or simple as you like. We’ll try them out on the trail when complete.

1 - 3 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: adults, 10 years & up with adult Terrain: moderate, some hills, 1 mile Register by March 16 440-247-7075 In Search of…

Skunk Cabbage What is “skunk cabbage”?

Is it a cabbage that stinks?

Where can it be found? Join Naturalist Traci Williams to find out the answers as we go searching for spring’s first wildflower.

2 - 3 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults, 8 years & over with adult Terrain: paved and dirt trails, off-trail, extremely muddy, 0.75 mile

School of the Wilds Invasion of the Aliens!

Plants, of Course Jennifer Hillmer, Cleveland Metroparks invasive plant removal czar, brings us up to speed on the top 10 invaders, the difference between nonnative and invasive, and how we can bring some balance back into our ecosystem. After her presentation, we will search for some aliens.

2 - 5 p.m. RRNC Terrain: muddy, 1 mile Sing in the Spring Spring is here at last. If the temperature is moderate we may hear the voices of newly awakened frogs. The season’s earliest frogs are adapted to cope with alternate warmer or freezing nights.

7:30 - 9 p.m. NCNC Terrain: muddy, incline, 2.5 miles Buzzard Sunday! (see page 3 for details) Frostville Museum Pancake Breakfast (see page 8 for details)

21 • Monday

Little Explorers Salamanders, our voiceless amphibians, are among the most common but rarely seen forest residents. Learn about them through a story, craft and short walk.

10 - 11:15 a.m. or 1 - 2:15 p.m. RRNC Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult Terrain: flat with a few steps, Spring Book Review 0.5 mile Join Naturalist Joni Norris Registration required and the Rocky River Read- 440-734-6660 ers to review The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey.

2 - 4 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults

28 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

Cleveland Metroparks Southwest Camera Club Digital projection and slide competition. Categories are “bridges” and “nature.”

7:30 - 9:30 p.m. RRNC Cleveland Metroparks Photography Club East “Tips on Technique: Foreground, Midground, Background” - It’s a basic for all good landscapes. Bring in 10 images to show how you handled or mishandled all three at once.

8 - 10 p.m. NCNC

22 • Tuesday Stroller Science Bring your precious little one out to look for clues of the coming spring. Some animals are starting to wake up, looking for food and a place to have their young. Strollers are recommended.

10:15 - 11:15 a.m. NCNC Ages: 2 years & under with adult Register beginning March 1 440-473-3370 Little Explorers (see 3/21 for details)

23 • Tuesday Animal Crackers This month you and your preschooler will explore the fascinating world of rocks and fossils. Remember, the kids will discover today’s topic using the clues from the mystery bag.

10 - 11:15 a.m. or 1 - 2:15 p.m. BNC Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult, no siblings Register beginning March 1 440-526-1012

Secret Salamanders Young children will love learning more about the shy, secretive salamander. We will hear a story, take a short hike to our favorite salamander spot, look for some slippery salamanders and then return to the nature center for a fun craft.

10:30 - 11:30 a.m. GPNC Ages: 3 - 5 years with adult Register beginning March 1 216-341-3152

24 • Thursday Around the Emerald Necklace Cleveland Metroparks naturalists are excited to share their favorite trails around the Emerald Necklace with you. These hikes will rotate throughout most of the reservations within Cleveland Metroparks. Our hope is to introduce you to a few spots that will become your favorites as well.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m. HiR Hinckley Lake Boathouse Terrain: hills, 3 - 4 miles 440-526-1012 Preschoolers: The Lorax Bring your preschooler to CanalWay Center to listen to the story of the Lorax and the Once-ler. We will ‘speak for the trees’ after the book, make a craft and go on a short hike.

10 a.m. CWC Register beginning March 1 216-206-1000

Urban Explorations: Burke Lakefront Airport Join Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak to learn about the history and workings of Burke Lakefront Airport.

We’ll also tour the International Women’s Air & Space Museum in the airport. Details will be sent in confirmation letter.

10 a.m.

Ages: adults Register beginning March 1 216-206-1000

Family Friday Night: The Princess and the Frog Help kick-off our awesome amphibian weekend with a showing of The Princess and the Frog, a Walt Disney movie. This modern day retelling of the classic story The Frog Prince is great for the entire family. Join us to see if waitress Tiana and Prince Naveen break the spell and fulfill their dreams.

6 - 8 p.m. NCNC

Green Time Preschoolers that love nature will love coming to this twopart nature program. This month we’ll talk about amphibians - frogs amd salamanders. The second part of this program will be on March 31.

Arrive up to 30 minutes early to play and socialize.

10:30 - 11:30 a.m. or 1 - 2 p.m. SCR Look About Lodge Ages: 3 years - pre-K with adult Register via email LALreg@ clevelandmetroparks.com

Amphibian Adventure As winter’s long hold breaks, many Ohio amphibians emerge to begin their breeding migrations. These first few weeks of spring are the best time to view a variety of frogs and salamanders. Join Naturalist Bethany Majeski for an exploration of the wetlands of Rocky River Reservation.

7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC Ages: adults, older children Terrain: muddy, wet, some stairs, 1.5 miles Registration required 440-734-6660

25 • Friday

26 • Saturday

Urban Explorations: Idea Center Join Doug Kusak for a peek inside Idea Center, which houses Ideastream®: the studios for television’s WVIZ/ PBS and radio’s 90.3/WCPN. It is a center of the arts, technology, education, ideas. Details will be sent in confirmation letter.

10 a.m.

Ages: 12 years to adults Register beginning March 1 216-206-1000

Hike & Soup Join us for a hike along the Towpath. We will hike north to the flood pole and back to the Center. When we return homemade soup will be waiting for us to warm us up. Each person will receive a Cleveland Metroparks mug to take home.

11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. CWC Fee: $6 Terrain: one hill, all purpose trail, 3 miles Register beginning March 1 216-206-1000

Acoustic Players Circle Join this well-established player’s circle while singing songs to a theme each month and swapping songs, chords and styles of playing. Professional abilities not needed, just a desire to have fun and learn from fellow musicians. Theme for this month is Songs by Duos.

Listeners welcome.

1 p.m. CWC 216-206-1000

27 • Sunday

Art in the Park - Sketching the Signs of Spring Join us as we hike into Garfield Park Reservation looking for artistic inspiration.

Bring your sketch pad and favorite drawing medium as we head out into the park looking for signs of spring to capture on paper. Feel free to bring a snack and stay for Poetry in the Park.

Hike for your Supper 1- 2:30 p.m. GPNC Come to the Lodge this eve- Ages 8 years & up with adult ning and learn more about our spring amphibians. You Moving Toward a More can choose between joining Positive Climate an energizing hike or a more Discussing global climate relaxed pace hike. When you change can make people call to register you will be as- cringe. Feel in the dark or signed a food item to bring frustrated about this problem? as your price of admission. Naturalist Bethany Majeski When the hikers return to the leads a frank chat about facts, Lodge, we’ll all enjoy a warm causes, and effects. Learn how supper prepared by our vol- climate change affects lounteers. cal habitats and share tips to 5 – 7 p.m. SCR move toward a better, healthLook About Lodge ier world.

Terrain: rolling hills, 0.5 mile 2 - 3 p.m. RRNC Register by noon on March 24 Ages: adults, older students 440-247-7075 Amphibian Exploration Cinema Saturday Night The end of March is often a John James Audubon: good time to search the wetDrawn From Nature lands for breeding amphibJohn James Audubon’s ians. Join a naturalist in exachievements are monumen- ploring a wetland for these tal. An American pioneer, fascinating and rarely seen artist and naturalist, this is creatures. Wear wettable the story of the man who shoes or boots. came to stand for the Ameri- 2 - 3:15 p.m. NCR can wilderness and all things Wilson Mills Rd. parking lot wild. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Terrain: muddy, slight hill, 7:30 - 9 p.m. RRNC 0.5 - 1 mile Ages: families with older children, adults 5-Mile Sunday Looking for something to do this afternoon? Hike with Naturalist Sharon Hosko from Lake Abram to Lake Isaac and back. We’ll look for resident birds on our brisk hike.

2 - 4:30 BCR Eastland Road Trailhead Terrain: paved, flat 440-526-1012

29

Poetry in the Park The stillness of winter is a wonderful canvas for the thoughts and feelings of your heart and mind. Escape to the woods and let the natural world inspire you to write poetry in the park. Bring a pencil and a notebook. Dress for the weather.

3 - 4 p.m. GPNC Terrain: gravel, off trail, 1.5 miles Bird Banding at Rocky River Nature Center (see 3/13 for details)

30 • Wednesday History & a Brown Bag Lunch: Women’s History Month Bring yourself and a woman in your life to this program celebrating the accomplishments of women in history.

Cultural History Interpreter Karen Lakus will introduce you to some notable local ladies whose contributions to society have made a difference in Northeast Ohio and beyond.

Noon CWC

29 • Tuesday

31 • Thursday

Hidden Story Hike Join Naturalist Sharon Hosko to learn about the history of the Lake to Lake trail that stretches from lake Isaac to Fowles Marsh 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. MSRR Lake Isaac parking lot Terrain: paved, flat, 2.5 miles 440-526-1012

Walk to the Beaver Lodges Join Naturalist Min Keung to visit all the beaver lodges within walking distance. We will see beaver chews and weave some beaver tales.

2 - 3:30 p.m. RRNC Terrain: may be muddy, 2 miles

Spring-in at West Creek Join Naturalist Jen Brumfield and welcome spring in fields and forests of West Creek. We’ll be on the lookout for resident birds, like titmice, juncos, and bluebirds, and more. Binoculars recommended.

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. WCR Ages: adults, families Terrain: moderate, mostly flat, 1.25 miles 216-341-9225 Woodcock Watch Each spring the male woodcock returns to northern Ohio and begins a nightly performance of calls and aerial dances to attract a mate.

Join us as we search for this common, but elusive bird and watch his “skydance.” Wear hiking footwear and dress for the weather.

7 p.m. CWC

Preparation of Spring It is time to review and refresh our spring bird, wildflower, amphibian and reptile natural history. Join Naturalist Tim Krynak for this indoor visual and audio review session as spring leaps into full swing!

7 - 8:30 p.m. NCNC Ages: adults & teens March of the Amphibians The annual spring amphibian migration is an amazing phenomenon. Join Naturalist Kelly McGinnis to learn about frogs and salamanders and why they make this trek.

We will caravan to a site to witness part of this, weather permitting.

7 - 8:30 p.m. BNC Register beginning March 3 440-526-1012

30 Emerald Necklace, March 2011

The Sky Dance of the Woodcock Some people call it the bogsucker or the timberdoodle, (but you might know it as the woodcock.) This intriguing bird is making its annual mating flight at this time. This is one for the bucket list, a must see! Dress for the weather.

7:45 - 8:45 p.m. BCR Main Street Ballfield 440-734-6660

Cleveland Metroparks is proud to serve the following products

EMERALD NECKLACE KIDS CORNER

New for 2011! Each month will feature a puzzle or quiz just for kids! Answers will appear in the following month’s issue.

Amphibians are animals that start their lives in water, such as a pond or stream, and then completely change into airbreathing animals when they grow into adults. Salamanders, frogs and toads are amphibians that live in the reservations of Cleveland Metroparks.

Fill in the answers to the clues below, then use the coded letters from your answers to identify the amphibians pictured below.

A vernal pool is a temporary woodland pool, formed by rain and melting

___ ___ ___ ___ .

4 10 16 1

Some salamanders emerge from underground in late winter and travel, or ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ , ___ .

14 8 11 7 3 9 2 to vernal pools, where they ___ ___ ___ their eggs.

5 3 13 Salamanders don’t make any sounds, but male frogs and toads announce that they’re looking for a mate by giving a ___ ___ ___ ___ , such as that of the green frog, which sounds like someone’s plucking a banjo string.

6 3 5 5 Frogs and toads are the only animals whose eggs hatch into ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___, with tails but no legs.

9 3 17 12 16 5 2 4 It’s fun to look for amphibians, but don’t touch them, because oils on your ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 15 8 10 11 2 7 4 are harmful to their skin.

Need help? Come to “Toad”-ally Awesome Amphibians at North Chagrin Nature Center (see page 8), or ask a naturalist at any nature center.

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 4 12 16 9 9 2 17

Jen Brumfield

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 4 3 5 3 14 3 10 17 2 7

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 4 12 7 8 10 11

___ ___ ___ ___ 1 16 16 17

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 12 2 2 12 2 7

___ ___ ___ ___ 15 7 16 11

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 3 14 2 7 8 6 3 10 ___ ___ ___ ___ 9 16 3 17

Sharon Hosko

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 5 2 16 12 3 7 17

Jared Mizanin

___ ___ ___ ___ 15 7 16 11

Jared Mizanin

Kevin Metcalft

Jared Mizanin

___ ___ ___ 7 2 17

- ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 4

12

16

9

9

2

17

___ ___ ___ ___ 10 2 1 9 Jared Mizanin

Answers to February’s Kids Corner puzzle: 1. Red-tailed hawk, 2. Eastern screech-owl, 3. Peregrine falcon, 4. Cooper’s Hawk, 5. Bald Eagle

31

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

printed on recycled paper Administrative Offices

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

TTY 216-351-0808 4101 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com 24-hour Job Hotline 216-635-3211 Office of the Executive Director 216-635-3214 Office of the Treasurer 216-635-3231 Human Resources 216-635-3228 Marketing 216-635-3268 Planning/Engineering 216-635-3237 Brochures/Maps/Emerald Necklace 216-635-3200 Permits/Picnic Area Reservations 216-635-3200 Volunteer Services 216-635-3258

Ranger Headquarters Ranger Chief 4600 Valley Parkway Fairview Park 440-331-5530 Accidents or Emergencies 440-333-4911 Parkway Alert Line (PAL) 440-331-5963

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

TTY 216-661-1090 3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH 44109 clemetzoo.com Office of the Zoo Director 216-635-3330 Education Programs/Volunteers 216-635-3391 Travel Programs 216-635-3331 Marketing & Public Relations 216-635-3338 School Group Reservations 216-635-3308 Groups/Parties/Private Events/ Facility Rentals 216-635-3389 Cleveland Zoological Society 216-661-6500, ext. 4421

Winter Recreation 216-635-3200

Chalet/Tobogganing Mill Stream Run Reservation Strongsville 440-572-9990

Golf

Cleveland Metroparks Directory

Golf Tee Reservations (24 hours) and directions, hours, fees etc.

216-635-3673 clevelandmetroparks.com Golf Services – for general course info and inquires 440-232-7247 Big Met Golf Course 4811 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation Fairview Park 440-331-1070 Food Service/Catering: Big Met Grille 440-333-5575 Little Met Golf Course 18599 Old Lorain Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-941-9672 Food Service/Catering: Fairway Grille 216-252-6533 Manakiki Golf Course 35501 Eddy Road North Chagrin Reservation Willoughby Hills 440-942-2500 Food Service/Catering: Sammy’s of Manakiki 440-946-1140 Mastick Woods Golf Course 19900 Puritas Road Rocky River Reservation Cleveland 216-265-3666 Food Service/Catering: Eagle’s Nest Cafe 216-265-3660 Shawnee Hills Golf Course 18753 Egbert Road Bedford Reservation Bedford 440-232-7184 Food Service/Catering: Double Bogey Grill 440-439-1068 Sleepy Hollow Golf Course 9445 Brecksville Road Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-4285 Food Service/Catering: Theo’s of Sleepy Hollow 440-546-1555 Washington Golf Learning Center 3841 Washington Park Blvd.

Washington Reservation 216-641-1864 The First Tee of Cleveland 216-641-7799

Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education Administration 216-341-9225 Institute of the Great Outdoors 216-341-1704 Historical Interpretation 440-786-8530 Voyageur Canoe Paddle Wallace/Hinckley Lakes 440-786-8530 West Creek Reservation 216-341-9225 Youth Outdoors 216-206-1010

Outdoor Education Facilities CanalWay Center E. 49th Street entrance Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000 Brecksville Nature Center Rt. 82 entrance Brecksville Reservation Brecksville 440-526-1012

Swimming

440-331-8111 Hotline 216-635-3383 Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Huntington Beach Huntington Reservation Bay Village

Garfield Park Nature Center 11350 Broadway Avenue Garfield Park Reservation Garfield Heights 216-341-3152

Ledge Pool & Recreation Area Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township Ledge Rock Café

North Chagrin Nature Center Sunset Lane Entrance North Chagrin Reservation Mayfield Village 440-473-3370

Wallace Lake Mill Stream Run Reservation Berea Quarry Rock Café

John J. Donnelly Rocky River Nature Center 24000 Valley Parkway Rocky River Reservation North Olmsted 440-734-6660

Cleveland Metroparks Affiliates and Clubs

Look About Lodge Miles Rd., east of Rt. 91 South Chagrin Reservation 440-247-7075 EarthWords Nature Shops CanalWay Center Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1003 North Chagrin Nature Center Mayfield Village 440-449-0511 Rocky River Nature Center North Olmsted 440-734-7576 NatureTracks Education Unit 216-341-1707 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Lake Erie Nature & Science Center Bay Village 440-871-WILD

Boating

Emerald Necklace Marina 1500 Scenic Park Drive Rocky River Reservation Lakewood 216-226-3030 Food Service/Catering: Sweetwater Landing 216-228-2233 Kayak Rentals 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures Rocky River Reservation 1-866-529-2541 Hinckley Boathouse West Drive, Hinckley Lake Hinckley Reservation Hinckley Township 330-278-3132 Wallace Lake Off Valley Parkway, south of Bagley Road Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea Quarry Rock Café

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.

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 Brilla House Slavic Village Development Mill Creek Falls Garfield Park Reservation 216-429-1182, ext. 116 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 Northeast 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 440-779-0280 www.olmstedhistoricalsociety.org Rocky River Stables Rocky River Reservation 216-267-2525 (lessons & boarding – no trail rides)