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East Fork State Park - Local News
Hikers brave the cold to conquer the Buckeye Trail BY KRISTIN BEDNARSKI Clermont Sun staff
o D D P A G E s
Despite the unusually cold temperatures for the last day of March, three dedicated hikers pulled gear out of their cars, bundled up and prepared to complete the Batavia to Milford portion of the Buckeye Trail. The hikers, Bruce “Poppy” Purdy of Grove City, Richard Morgan of McArthur and Robert Leon of Elyria are dedicated. They have all completed almost half, or more than half, of the 1,444 mile Buckeye Trail that loops the state of Ohio and connects its four corners. “We'll be out for about three days,” said Morgan about their hike. “We'll complete a good portion in this area today.” The trio hiked from Batavia to Milford March 31 where they dropped off Purdy's car. They drove to the park office in East Fork State Park and then hiked back to Batavia and spent April 1-2 at East Fork State Park. Both Purdy and Morgan are at about the halfway point, and Leon has completed close to three-fourths of the
Buckeye Trail. “I am just doing what I wanted to do when I was young,” said Morgan. “But work and life got in the way.” Morgan, Purdy and Leon all pursued hiking later in life. Leon retired and hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2004 and Purdy said he started hiking in 2008 and discovered the Buckeye Trail in 2009 with a Boy Scout group. Morgan also said that hiking the trail was a way of pushing himself, and all three hikers agreed that health benefits were a major reason they pursued the trial. “I started for health,” Purdy said. “I took a physical test that said I was 72 years old. Now I am 42, and I feel like it.” All three men have been working toward completing the Buckeye Trail for over two years. The trail, which is the only long distance hiking trail in the state of Ohio, traverses over 40 of Ohio's 88 counties. Purdy said it is currently the longest loop trail until proven otherwise. Purdy, Morgan and Leon are all members of the Buckeye
Spring 2011 JOHN KASICH Governor
DAVID MUSTINE Director - ODNR
CHRIS DAUNER Park Manager East Fork State Park
CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO Learn More About East Fork State Park’s Camping, Boating & Wildlife
OHIO - America’s Finest State Park System www.ohiostateparks.org - email: east.fork.parks@dnr.state.oh.us Park Office (513) 734-4323 Camp Office (513) 724-6521 Dedicated trail hikers, from left, Richard Morgan of McArthur, Bruce “Poppy” Purdy of Grove City, and Robert Leon of Elyria, traipse along the Batavia Township portion of the Buckeye Trail. Trail Association, and became hiking buddies as a result. “The main purpose, other than personal,” Purdy said about hiking the trail, “Is our association does trail maintenance. Saturday we are meeting up with a group of people to clean up
some of the winter damage.” Other than maintenance, the volunteer-only association provides trail maps and information, hosts events and works to both preserve existing trails and create new trails. Purdy also said the trail gives hikers a taste
In This Issue • Spring Activities & Events • Boar Report • Corps of Engineers Information • East Fork Information • Bridle Trails, Campsite, Park and Hunting Maps
of Ohio's history. The trail features caves, gorges, national parks, valleys and other landmarks. “Plus, what better way to see your country than by hiking it.” Leon said.
‘FIRE WOOD ALERT’ It is illegal to move firewood and ash tree materials out of Ohio’s quarantined areas. These materials may harbor Emerald Ash Borer, a major threat to Ohio’s ash trees. For more details please call: 1-888-OHIO EAB (1-888-644-6322)
‘CAMPING’ For camping reservations call or go online to the following: 1-866-644-6727 or www.ohiostateparks.org
East Fork Camp Office: (513) 724-6521 Stonelick Camp Office: (513) 625-6593 NOTE: Both parks campground offices have seasonal and varied hours of operation For more details, maps and other brochures for East Fork State Park and Stonelick State Park call or e-mail the main office at the following:
(513)734-4323 or East.Fork.Parks@dnr.state.oh.us DON’T FORGET TO GRAB A PARK MAP FOR BOTH PARKS FOR SOME NATURAL AND HISTORICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE AREAS THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING OHIO STATE PARKS
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Sun Group
NEWSPAPERS
Some of the beautiful colors found at the Corps Visitor Center.
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EAstfork stAtE PArk NEws • PAGE 7
THE BOAR REPORT MIKE ARNOLD - The BoarsHead Bait & Carryout
EAST F ORK S TATE P ARK C AMPSITE GUIDE
East Fork Fishing & Hunting Report
orange so you are seen. schedule for the 2011 shinners and nitroworms. Thanks! Crappie Tournament. This Turkey season starts is the first year for April 18th to May 15th, Saturday Tournaments. So should be a very good far crappie are doing very year. Eeryone seeing a lot good - 8 to 9 inch this time of birds and it also starts of year. Now they are 9 to the new check-in system 10.5 which shows the new online or by phone. Until next time, good size limit is working already. Its only going to fishing and hunting to all get better and better. Now and always be safe - wear don’t forget those strip- that life jacket and wear pers. They will make a run up Tunnel Mill and chicken liver, rooster tail and crank bait will get you some of those hard fighting fish. Large mouth bass will get on fire, also as they come AT EAST FOR AFTON RAMP • ALL DATES 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM in to spawn, soft plastic jigs SATURDAY DIVISION SUNDAY DIVISION and crank and spinner bait will net you some very nice March 26 March 27 fish. Look for Bluegill April 16 April 10 around stumps and laying May 7 April 17 trees on waxworm redJune 4 May 8 worm and nightcrawlers. Catfish will be looking for June 11 June 12 nightcrawlers, cut bait like June 25 June 19 skip jack, shad, goldfish,
Mike Arnold Boar’s Head Bait & Carryout 513-724-1211
Boar’s Head Report Mike Arnold, Owner 724-1211 Howdy Everyone, Welcome to East Fork, we are looking to have a good year of fishing. The spring rains are here. They reded the boat ramp, making it 20 feet longer, so this will help in the fall when the water goes down, looks good. My friend Don did the work, good job Donald! Below you will find the
BOAR’S HEAD BAIT & CARRYOUT 2011 CRAPPIE TOURNAMENT
August 27 September 10 September 24 October 8
AUTO HOME BUSINESS BONDS Call us for all your insurance needs
August 28 September 11 September 25 October 9
Championship Tournament - Two Days: October 22nd and 23rd Cost $75.00 per team - $15.00 goes to the championship fund - $5.00 goes toward Big Crappie 100% payback with the rest of the money. To qualify for the championship tournament, you must fish 8 out of the 10 tournaments. You may use subs if needed. Call Mike at 724-1211 for more information.
E AST FORK S TATE P ARK B RIDLE TRAILS Rules and Regulations to Remember • All riders must stay on designated trail • No new trails, short cuts, or modifications shall be made • Do not detour around muddy areas • Pack out your garbage • Do not tie horses to trees • Dogs must be kept on leashes
Life Jacket Loaners for Children Boaters who need child sized Life Jackets may borrow them from the Corps Visitor Center for the day or weekend
122 Water Street, Milford, OH
513-831-7900 www.lovins-ins.com
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Wear Your Life Jacket – It’s Your Friend for Life! It won’t work if you don’t WEAR IT!
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E AST FORK STATE PARK - PARK MAP
o D D P A G e S
E AST FORK STATE PARK HUNTING MAP NOTE This map is representative of the Official Hunting Map and should be used as a guide only. The official map is available for review at the park office. No hunting within 400 feet of any picnic area, construction area, residence, barn, service building, shelter house, beach, backpack trail, parking lot, road of other structure of driveway within any area administered by the Division of Parks and Recreation. No Sunday hunting on Park Administered land. Hunting of all game, except waterfowl, is prohibited on state park administered areas on Sunday. HUNTING IS PROHIBITED WITHIN 200 FT. OF THE STEVE NEWMAN WORLDWALKER PERIMETER TRAIL ON THE WILDLIFE AREA.
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Preventative procedures the best defense against heartworms For many Americans, the most cherished childhood memories revolve around time spent with a favorite family pet. While time spent using a string to play with your cat or running across a field with your dog are indeed happy memories, the sudden death of a pet can be a sorrowful time for youngsters and adults alike. Each year, thousands of family pets fall ill due to the presence of illness caused by parasites, but such problems ca be treated or prevented with a little education and tender loving care. Heartworm, a slow-developing parasitic infection affecting dogs throughout North America, involves the infestation of a dog’s heart by up to hundreds of long, thin, white worms that reproduce and grow until a dog’s heart can no longer pump enough blood to keep the dog alive. The infection can take up to two years to show any physical signs, and even then it could be overlooked. “The first sign of heartworm disease is that there is no sign, the dog looks perfectly healthy,” said Dr. Debbie Chalker with Georgetown Animal Hospital. After that, usually the next sign is weight loss and coughing. It can cause organ failure including heart, kidney, or liver failure. Heartworms spread from dog to dog by mosquitos. The heartworm reproduces through young worms that live in the blood stream. When bitten by the insect, some of these young are then consumed and transported by bites to healthy dogs. Eventually, the young worms grow into adults and the cycle begins anew. “We always have dogs tested, starting at five months or older. You can actually kill the dog if you start it on certain types of prevention before being tested. Depending on the size of the dog and if you want flea protections, it runs from $5 to $20 a month.” The best step to take is pre-
vention, which can begin with puppies. It is estimated that 30% of dogs and cats in the area have heartworms. “If a dog already has heartworm, they need to be treated with medicine to treat it. It can be complicated, they can take a preventive medicine to keep the dog from getting more until it can be treated, but it won’t treat what’s already there. When a dog is diagnosed with heartworm, the procedure to eliminate the infection can be time consuming and expensive. Typically, Chalker said that clearing up an infection takes a week of rest at the vet’s office, plus an additional six weeks of rest at home to prevent secondary problems. The worm is actually killed with medicine, so no surgery is involved, but the procedure must be followed up with preventative medicine to keep the dog from getting heartworm in the future. “If the dog is infected, it’s an injection in the back a day for two days,” said Chalker. The six weeks of rest prevent pulmonary embolisms which could potentially kill the dog. Then they come back in two weeks after the treatment to start on prevention.” Chalker said that, while rare, some cases of heartworm have been found in humans. Preventative medicine is also available for cats. What are heartworms? Heartworms are long, thin, white worms that live in the heart and adjoining blood vessels. During the adult life cycle, the female produce young called microfilariae. These microfilariae live in the dog’s bloodstream. How do dogs get heartworms? Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitos. When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it feeds on the blood which contains microfilaria. After 10 to 30 days in the mosquito’s system, the microfilariae become infected larvae. When the mosquito bites a healthy dog, the animal is infected with larvae which then grow
PREVENT FLEA INFESTATIONS ON YOUR PETS AND IN YOUR HOME.
into adult heartworms. Even if a dog has a thick coat, that is no protection against heartworm disease. Mosquitoes can bite into areas with less hair - in the stomach area or on the face and nose. Indoor dogs have as much chance of getting heartworms as dogs that live their lives outside. Most dogs are outside at some time during the day, and mosquitoes can enter houses also. Is heartworm disease widespread? Because the disease is transmitted my mosquitoes, it is especially serious where mosquitoes are predominant. The disease is now present all across the U.S. and Canada. What are the symptoms? By the time symptoms appear, heartworm disease has reached an advanced condition. It may take a number of years for symptoms to develop. Coughing, difficulty in breathing, fatigue, and weight loss are all typical signs. Severely infected dogs may die suddenly during exertion or excitement. How are dogs tested for heartworms? The test most frequently used involves drawing a blood sample form the dog. The sample is examined under a microscope for the presence of microfilariae. A snap heartworm antigen test is performed to test for adult heartworms. If a dog is diagnosed to have heartworm disease, a treatment program is set up to remove both adult worms and microfilariae. Can heartworms be prevented? After a dog is tested and found to be negative, it can be started on a preventative medication. This medication keeps the dog form getting infected if it is bitten by mosquitoes carrying the heartworm larvae. Your veterinarian will advise you about type of preventatives and corrct dosages.
Because 95% of the flea population in your home is made up of eggs, pupae, and wormlike larvae, the only way to stop infestations and prevent new ones from occurring is to break the flea life cycle at an immature stage. “Call us so we can help you prevent or treat flea infestation.”
N.S. Lodwick, D.V.M. • J.E. Gish, D.V.M. • D.C. Chalker, D.V.M. Office Hours by Appointment 9242 Hamer Rd., Georgetown, Ohio
(937) 378-6334
G EORGETOWN ANIMAL HOSPITAL “The Vet With a Heart” Trucking & Excavating Co. LLC 1275 W. Ohio Pike, Amelia, OH (513) 753-9186 Celebrating 53 Years Serving Clermont County and Neighboring Residences
★
TOP SOIL and MULCH ★ Now consolidated into one convenient location at 1275 Ohio Pike
Shredded Top Soil • Triple and Double Shredded Mulch Red and Black Dyed Mulch • Sand and Gravel Dump for Yard Waste • Pick up or Local Delivery
Bring in this ad for $3 OFF per yard of mulch
(we will match competitor’s coupons)
“A Great Place To Learn”
Full or Part-Time Classes
Grant Career Center www.grantcareer.com
734-6222
Call Rene or Randy To Advertise In The EAST FORK STATE PARK N.E.W.S.
Phone: (513) 732-2511
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1 (800) 404-3157
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Begin Your Day at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Visitor Center Spring means balmy temperatures, wonderful wildflowers, and beautiful birdsong. Begin your exploration of the park at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Visitor Center open daily. Conveniently located off SR 222 between the north and south entrances of East Fork State Park, you can pick up trail and park maps, a calendar of events, and other information. Displays allow you to discover the natural history of the park and missions of the Corps. The Crabapple blossoms grace the center in late April. The Deer Ridge Trail, an Overlook and reservable Picnic Shelter are located near the Visitor Center. For more information about programs, volunteer opportunities, shelter reservations, etc. call the Park Ranger at (513) 7976081. The Corps Operations area also has fishing access, a boat ramp, hiking trails, and a second reservable shelter in the Tailwater. The Emergency Spillway is popular for flying kites, hunting fossils, and flying model airplanes. Views from the Saddle Dam attract walkers and joggers. And this is all just fifteen minutes from East Fork State Park!
Visitor Center Hours 7:30 am to 3:30 pm M - F 7:30 am to 4:00 pm S&S
Openings now available for ages 6 weeks to 12 years Over 20 years experience Hot lunches prepared daily Cold breakfast and afternoon snack also provided Call now for our new discounted rates
1263 W. Ohio Pike, Amelia, Ohio 45102 • 753-9184
A & A MINI STORAGE • Resident Manager • 24 Hr. Surveillance • Outside & Inside
• Fenced & Lighted • RV/Boat Storage
513 528-6118
4317 Mt. Carmel - Tobasco Rd., Mt. Carmel, Ohio
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2011 Calendar of Events
East Fork Regional 2011 Events
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - William H. Harsha Lake
(East Fork and Stonelick State Parks) • More detailed information is available by calling (513)734-4323
Get Outdoors to Enjoy your Parks! Most programs listed in this Calendar of Events are offered free of charge by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and will meet at the Corps Visitor Center on Slade Road near the Main Dam unless stated otherwise. For more information and to register for any program or event marked with an RR, call the Corps Ranger at 513-797-6081. Note: schedule is subject to change so please call ahead to confirm the program is still being offered. April 30 . . . Butterflies 101 - 10 am presentation, 1 pm Butterfly Safari - You’ve invited butterflies into your world by planting native wildflowers and prairie grasses. Now you want to learn the names of your guests! From 10 am to noon we’ll explore the common butterflies found in southwest Ohio and tackle the Hairy Hairstreaks and Scary Skippers. After lunch on your own, take a Butterfly Safari to put your new-found ID skills to the test! Note: you may attend either or both sessions. The morning class will be geared towards adults. Butterfly Safari is open to families with children aged 7 and up. MAy TBD Gold rush Campout - Go back to the 1800’s and enjoy friendship stew. Who knows, maybe you’ll find gold in them, thar hills! Camping fees apply. Call East Fork State Park 513-734-4323 for more information and to confirm dates. 14 . . . Scout Badge Day 9 – 11 am rr - Calling all scout leaders, sign up your troop, pack or den now for this exciting round robin of activities that will help your scouts earn their Girl Scout Wildlife or Webeloes Naturalist Badge. To register, call the ranger at 513-797-6081. Expanded Visitor Center Hours Memorial Day through Labor Day 7:30 am to 3:30 pm Weekdays - 7:30 am to 4:30 pm Weekends 30 . . . Water Safety Blitz! - Just where will you find the Corps Ranger today? At the Visitor Center, Boat Ramp or Beach you say? Wherever she may be, she’ll have cool give-aways for you and for me! Fun books, tattoos, key tags and more will be yours from 10 ‘til 4. June 11 . . . East Fork Butterfly Count 9 am rr - Get Outdoors and join in the first-ever Butterfly Count in Clermont County! Styled after Christmas Bird Counts, all butterflies in a 15 mile circle are counted. With so much territory, we need you! Meet at the Corps Visitor Center at 9 am to break into groups led by veteran butterfliers who are happy to share their knowledge and visit locations filled with flowers and butterflies. Bring water and snacks. This count is sponsored by the North American Butterfly Association, an organization that promotes awareness of butterfly conservation, observation and education. A $3.00 participation fee is collected by NABA. For more information and to register, call 513-797-6081. 27-30 . . . Junior Rangers 9 – 11 am rr - Children aged 8-12 earn the highly-coveted Junior Ranger patch by attending this four-day series of hands-on programs about the Corps of Engineers and our natural world. Topics may include Avian Adventures, Hoppin’ Herps, Tree-mendous Trees and Ranger Ready. Registration is required, call 513-797-6081. July - December will be published in the East Fork State Park NEWS Summer Issue.
Attention Educators! Are you a teacher, home-school educator, or scout leader? Are you searching for stimulating and fun activities for your garden club, senior center or other organized group? Look no further! The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offers programs free of charge on a variety of topics. Schedule an interpretive program for your class, club, group, troop or den on the following topics: Awesome Animals • Avian Adventures • FBBI-Butterflies • Garlic Mustard Blasters! ree-mendous Trees • Fantastic Fossils • Frogs Float • Kids Don’t • Geology Rocks Habitats are Homes • Bugs Don’t Bug Me • Lepidopterist Lady • Movin’ Monarchs The Mating Game • Wet and Wild • Wildflowers • Wildlife in Your World • and Winter Organized groups may also schedule a Control Tower Tour and go behind the scenes of a modern Flood Reduction Dam. Programs can be designed for pre-schoolers through high-schoolers and adults. We also offer service projects for those students and scouts needing community service hours or wanting to earn badges.
April 2011
August 2011
23 .........Cincinnati Youth Regatta: (East Fork State Park) Main beach. 30 .........18th annual River Sweep: (East Fork & Stonelick) 9:00am–1:00pm. Call to sign up.
6&7 ......HFP Men’s & Women’s Triathlon: (East Fork State Park) South side off of St. Rt. 125. 6&7 ......Antique Machinery Show: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
May 2011 7 ...........Spring Campout: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 7&8 ......Ohio Free Fishing Day: Available everywhere fishing is allowed. For more details call 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543) 7&8 ......Gold Rush Days Campout: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 14&15 ..Scholastic Rowing Regatta: (East Fork State Park) Main beach. 21&22 ..Midwest Junior Rowing Regatta: (East Fork State Park) Main beach. 28 .........Derby Days: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
June 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EITHER EAST FORK OR STONELICK STATE PARK SUCH AS OUR CAMPING FEES, RESERVATION INFORMATION AND MORE PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US DIRECTLY AT:
(513) 734-4323 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 8AM-5PM WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MAJOR HOLIDAYS THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING OHIO STATE PARKS
September 2011 24 .........Camper Appreciation: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
October 2011
11 .........Kids Fishing Day: (East Fork State Park) 11:00a.m.-3:00p.m. Call to sign up. 11 .........Off Road Triathlon: (East Fork State Park) http://www.topoadventuresports.org/tri.html
July 2011 16 .........Christmas in July: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 23 .........Christmas in July: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
1&8……6 or 12 hour Adventure Race: (EastForkStatePark) www.topoadventuresports.org/2011toad.html 14-16…Halloween Campout: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 14-16…Not Quite Halloween campout: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 21-22…Halloween Campout: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
OTHER EVENTS ‘EAST FORK FISHING TOURNAMENTS’ BOAR’S HEAD CRAPPIE TOURNAMENTS: Call (513)724-1211 for details and to enter. TUESDAY EVENING BASS TOURNAMENTS: Call (513)706-0175 for details and to enter.
‘STONELICK’S ANNUAL STARGAZE’ STONELICK STARGAZERS: Go to (www.cincinnatiobservatory.org/freestargazes.html) or call the Observatory at (513)321-5186 for more details.
Trester Auto Parts 995 Highway 28 (1 mile north of 275) Milford, Ohio PHONE:
(513) 831-9141
To Schedule a Program, just Call the Ranger at 513-797-6081!
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Begin Your Day at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Visitor Center Spring means balmy temperatures, wonderful wildflowers, and beautiful birdsong. Begin your exploration of the park at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Visitor Center open daily. Conveniently located off SR 222 between the north and south entrances of East Fork State Park, you can pick up trail and park maps, a calendar of events, and other information. Displays allow you to discover the natural history of the park and missions of the Corps. The Crabapple blossoms grace the center in late April. The Deer Ridge Trail, an Overlook and reservable Picnic Shelter are located near the Visitor Center. For more information about programs, volunteer opportunities, shelter reservations, etc. call the Park Ranger at (513) 7976081. The Corps Operations area also has fishing access, a boat ramp, hiking trails, and a second reservable shelter in the Tailwater. The Emergency Spillway is popular for flying kites, hunting fossils, and flying model airplanes. Views from the Saddle Dam attract walkers and joggers. And this is all just fifteen minutes from East Fork State Park!
Visitor Center Hours 7:30 am to 3:30 pm M - F 7:30 am to 4:00 pm S&S
Openings now available for ages 6 weeks to 12 years Over 20 years experience Hot lunches prepared daily Cold breakfast and afternoon snack also provided Call now for our new discounted rates
1263 W. Ohio Pike, Amelia, Ohio 45102 • 753-9184
A & A MINI STORAGE • Resident Manager • 24 Hr. Surveillance • Outside & Inside
• Fenced & Lighted • RV/Boat Storage
513 528-6118
4317 Mt. Carmel - Tobasco Rd., Mt. Carmel, Ohio
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2011 Calendar of Events
East Fork Regional 2011 Events
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - William H. Harsha Lake
(East Fork and Stonelick State Parks) • More detailed information is available by calling (513)734-4323
Get Outdoors to Enjoy your Parks! Most programs listed in this Calendar of Events are offered free of charge by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and will meet at the Corps Visitor Center on Slade Road near the Main Dam unless stated otherwise. For more information and to register for any program or event marked with an RR, call the Corps Ranger at 513-797-6081. Note: schedule is subject to change so please call ahead to confirm the program is still being offered. April 30 . . . Butterflies 101 - 10 am presentation, 1 pm Butterfly Safari - You’ve invited butterflies into your world by planting native wildflowers and prairie grasses. Now you want to learn the names of your guests! From 10 am to noon we’ll explore the common butterflies found in southwest Ohio and tackle the Hairy Hairstreaks and Scary Skippers. After lunch on your own, take a Butterfly Safari to put your new-found ID skills to the test! Note: you may attend either or both sessions. The morning class will be geared towards adults. Butterfly Safari is open to families with children aged 7 and up. MAy TBD Gold rush Campout - Go back to the 1800’s and enjoy friendship stew. Who knows, maybe you’ll find gold in them, thar hills! Camping fees apply. Call East Fork State Park 513-734-4323 for more information and to confirm dates. 14 . . . Scout Badge Day 9 – 11 am rr - Calling all scout leaders, sign up your troop, pack or den now for this exciting round robin of activities that will help your scouts earn their Girl Scout Wildlife or Webeloes Naturalist Badge. To register, call the ranger at 513-797-6081. Expanded Visitor Center Hours Memorial Day through Labor Day 7:30 am to 3:30 pm Weekdays - 7:30 am to 4:30 pm Weekends 30 . . . Water Safety Blitz! - Just where will you find the Corps Ranger today? At the Visitor Center, Boat Ramp or Beach you say? Wherever she may be, she’ll have cool give-aways for you and for me! Fun books, tattoos, key tags and more will be yours from 10 ‘til 4. June 11 . . . East Fork Butterfly Count 9 am rr - Get Outdoors and join in the first-ever Butterfly Count in Clermont County! Styled after Christmas Bird Counts, all butterflies in a 15 mile circle are counted. With so much territory, we need you! Meet at the Corps Visitor Center at 9 am to break into groups led by veteran butterfliers who are happy to share their knowledge and visit locations filled with flowers and butterflies. Bring water and snacks. This count is sponsored by the North American Butterfly Association, an organization that promotes awareness of butterfly conservation, observation and education. A $3.00 participation fee is collected by NABA. For more information and to register, call 513-797-6081. 27-30 . . . Junior Rangers 9 – 11 am rr - Children aged 8-12 earn the highly-coveted Junior Ranger patch by attending this four-day series of hands-on programs about the Corps of Engineers and our natural world. Topics may include Avian Adventures, Hoppin’ Herps, Tree-mendous Trees and Ranger Ready. Registration is required, call 513-797-6081. July - December will be published in the East Fork State Park NEWS Summer Issue.
Attention Educators! Are you a teacher, home-school educator, or scout leader? Are you searching for stimulating and fun activities for your garden club, senior center or other organized group? Look no further! The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offers programs free of charge on a variety of topics. Schedule an interpretive program for your class, club, group, troop or den on the following topics: Awesome Animals • Avian Adventures • FBBI-Butterflies • Garlic Mustard Blasters! ree-mendous Trees • Fantastic Fossils • Frogs Float • Kids Don’t • Geology Rocks Habitats are Homes • Bugs Don’t Bug Me • Lepidopterist Lady • Movin’ Monarchs The Mating Game • Wet and Wild • Wildflowers • Wildlife in Your World • and Winter Organized groups may also schedule a Control Tower Tour and go behind the scenes of a modern Flood Reduction Dam. Programs can be designed for pre-schoolers through high-schoolers and adults. We also offer service projects for those students and scouts needing community service hours or wanting to earn badges.
April 2011
August 2011
23 .........Cincinnati Youth Regatta: (East Fork State Park) Main beach. 30 .........18th annual River Sweep: (East Fork & Stonelick) 9:00am–1:00pm. Call to sign up.
6&7 ......HFP Men’s & Women’s Triathlon: (East Fork State Park) South side off of St. Rt. 125. 6&7 ......Antique Machinery Show: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
May 2011 7 ...........Spring Campout: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 7&8 ......Ohio Free Fishing Day: Available everywhere fishing is allowed. For more details call 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543) 7&8 ......Gold Rush Days Campout: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 14&15 ..Scholastic Rowing Regatta: (East Fork State Park) Main beach. 21&22 ..Midwest Junior Rowing Regatta: (East Fork State Park) Main beach. 28 .........Derby Days: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
June 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EITHER EAST FORK OR STONELICK STATE PARK SUCH AS OUR CAMPING FEES, RESERVATION INFORMATION AND MORE PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US DIRECTLY AT:
(513) 734-4323 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 8AM-5PM WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MAJOR HOLIDAYS THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING OHIO STATE PARKS
September 2011 24 .........Camper Appreciation: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
October 2011
11 .........Kids Fishing Day: (East Fork State Park) 11:00a.m.-3:00p.m. Call to sign up. 11 .........Off Road Triathlon: (East Fork State Park) http://www.topoadventuresports.org/tri.html
July 2011 16 .........Christmas in July: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 23 .........Christmas in July: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
1&8……6 or 12 hour Adventure Race: (EastForkStatePark) www.topoadventuresports.org/2011toad.html 14-16…Halloween Campout: (Stonelick State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 14-16…Not Quite Halloween campout: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply. 21-22…Halloween Campout: (East Fork State Park) Regular camping fees apply.
OTHER EVENTS ‘EAST FORK FISHING TOURNAMENTS’ BOAR’S HEAD CRAPPIE TOURNAMENTS: Call (513)724-1211 for details and to enter. TUESDAY EVENING BASS TOURNAMENTS: Call (513)706-0175 for details and to enter.
‘STONELICK’S ANNUAL STARGAZE’ STONELICK STARGAZERS: Go to (www.cincinnatiobservatory.org/freestargazes.html) or call the Observatory at (513)321-5186 for more details.
Trester Auto Parts 995 Highway 28 (1 mile north of 275) Milford, Ohio PHONE:
(513) 831-9141
To Schedule a Program, just Call the Ranger at 513-797-6081!
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PAGe 6 • eASTForK STATe PArK neWS
E AST FORK STATE PARK - PARK MAP
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E AST FORK STATE PARK HUNTING MAP NOTE This map is representative of the Official Hunting Map and should be used as a guide only. The official map is available for review at the park office. No hunting within 400 feet of any picnic area, construction area, residence, barn, service building, shelter house, beach, backpack trail, parking lot, road of other structure of driveway within any area administered by the Division of Parks and Recreation. No Sunday hunting on Park Administered land. Hunting of all game, except waterfowl, is prohibited on state park administered areas on Sunday. HUNTING IS PROHIBITED WITHIN 200 FT. OF THE STEVE NEWMAN WORLDWALKER PERIMETER TRAIL ON THE WILDLIFE AREA.
eASTForK STATe PArK neWS • PAGe 3
Preventative procedures the best defense against heartworms For many Americans, the most cherished childhood memories revolve around time spent with a favorite family pet. While time spent using a string to play with your cat or running across a field with your dog are indeed happy memories, the sudden death of a pet can be a sorrowful time for youngsters and adults alike. Each year, thousands of family pets fall ill due to the presence of illness caused by parasites, but such problems ca be treated or prevented with a little education and tender loving care. Heartworm, a slow-developing parasitic infection affecting dogs throughout North America, involves the infestation of a dog’s heart by up to hundreds of long, thin, white worms that reproduce and grow until a dog’s heart can no longer pump enough blood to keep the dog alive. The infection can take up to two years to show any physical signs, and even then it could be overlooked. “The first sign of heartworm disease is that there is no sign, the dog looks perfectly healthy,” said Dr. Debbie Chalker with Georgetown Animal Hospital. After that, usually the next sign is weight loss and coughing. It can cause organ failure including heart, kidney, or liver failure. Heartworms spread from dog to dog by mosquitos. The heartworm reproduces through young worms that live in the blood stream. When bitten by the insect, some of these young are then consumed and transported by bites to healthy dogs. Eventually, the young worms grow into adults and the cycle begins anew. “We always have dogs tested, starting at five months or older. You can actually kill the dog if you start it on certain types of prevention before being tested. Depending on the size of the dog and if you want flea protections, it runs from $5 to $20 a month.” The best step to take is pre-
vention, which can begin with puppies. It is estimated that 30% of dogs and cats in the area have heartworms. “If a dog already has heartworm, they need to be treated with medicine to treat it. It can be complicated, they can take a preventive medicine to keep the dog from getting more until it can be treated, but it won’t treat what’s already there. When a dog is diagnosed with heartworm, the procedure to eliminate the infection can be time consuming and expensive. Typically, Chalker said that clearing up an infection takes a week of rest at the vet’s office, plus an additional six weeks of rest at home to prevent secondary problems. The worm is actually killed with medicine, so no surgery is involved, but the procedure must be followed up with preventative medicine to keep the dog from getting heartworm in the future. “If the dog is infected, it’s an injection in the back a day for two days,” said Chalker. The six weeks of rest prevent pulmonary embolisms which could potentially kill the dog. Then they come back in two weeks after the treatment to start on prevention.” Chalker said that, while rare, some cases of heartworm have been found in humans. Preventative medicine is also available for cats. What are heartworms? Heartworms are long, thin, white worms that live in the heart and adjoining blood vessels. During the adult life cycle, the female produce young called microfilariae. These microfilariae live in the dog’s bloodstream. How do dogs get heartworms? Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitos. When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it feeds on the blood which contains microfilaria. After 10 to 30 days in the mosquito’s system, the microfilariae become infected larvae. When the mosquito bites a healthy dog, the animal is infected with larvae which then grow
PREVENT FLEA INFESTATIONS ON YOUR PETS AND IN YOUR HOME.
into adult heartworms. Even if a dog has a thick coat, that is no protection against heartworm disease. Mosquitoes can bite into areas with less hair - in the stomach area or on the face and nose. Indoor dogs have as much chance of getting heartworms as dogs that live their lives outside. Most dogs are outside at some time during the day, and mosquitoes can enter houses also. Is heartworm disease widespread? Because the disease is transmitted my mosquitoes, it is especially serious where mosquitoes are predominant. The disease is now present all across the U.S. and Canada. What are the symptoms? By the time symptoms appear, heartworm disease has reached an advanced condition. It may take a number of years for symptoms to develop. Coughing, difficulty in breathing, fatigue, and weight loss are all typical signs. Severely infected dogs may die suddenly during exertion or excitement. How are dogs tested for heartworms? The test most frequently used involves drawing a blood sample form the dog. The sample is examined under a microscope for the presence of microfilariae. A snap heartworm antigen test is performed to test for adult heartworms. If a dog is diagnosed to have heartworm disease, a treatment program is set up to remove both adult worms and microfilariae. Can heartworms be prevented? After a dog is tested and found to be negative, it can be started on a preventative medication. This medication keeps the dog form getting infected if it is bitten by mosquitoes carrying the heartworm larvae. Your veterinarian will advise you about type of preventatives and corrct dosages.
Because 95% of the flea population in your home is made up of eggs, pupae, and wormlike larvae, the only way to stop infestations and prevent new ones from occurring is to break the flea life cycle at an immature stage. “Call us so we can help you prevent or treat flea infestation.”
N.S. Lodwick, D.V.M. • J.E. Gish, D.V.M. • D.C. Chalker, D.V.M. Office Hours by Appointment 9242 Hamer Rd., Georgetown, Ohio
(937) 378-6334
G EORGETOWN ANIMAL HOSPITAL “The Vet With a Heart” Trucking & Excavating Co. LLC 1275 W. Ohio Pike, Amelia, OH (513) 753-9186 Celebrating 53 Years Serving Clermont County and Neighboring Residences
★
TOP SOIL and MULCH ★ Now consolidated into one convenient location at 1275 Ohio Pike
Shredded Top Soil • Triple and Double Shredded Mulch Red and Black Dyed Mulch • Sand and Gravel Dump for Yard Waste • Pick up or Local Delivery
Bring in this ad for $3 OFF per yard of mulch
(we will match competitor’s coupons)
“A Great Place To Learn”
Full or Part-Time Classes
Grant Career Center www.grantcareer.com
734-6222
Call Rene or Randy To Advertise In The EAST FORK STATE PARK N.E.W.S.
Phone: (513) 732-2511
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1 (800) 404-3157
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EAstfork stAtE PArk NEws • PAGE 7
THE BOAR REPORT MIKE ARNOLD - The BoarsHead Bait & Carryout
EAST F ORK S TATE P ARK C AMPSITE GUIDE
East Fork Fishing & Hunting Report
orange so you are seen. schedule for the 2011 shinners and nitroworms. Thanks! Crappie Tournament. This Turkey season starts is the first year for April 18th to May 15th, Saturday Tournaments. So should be a very good far crappie are doing very year. Eeryone seeing a lot good - 8 to 9 inch this time of birds and it also starts of year. Now they are 9 to the new check-in system 10.5 which shows the new online or by phone. Until next time, good size limit is working already. Its only going to fishing and hunting to all get better and better. Now and always be safe - wear don’t forget those strip- that life jacket and wear pers. They will make a run up Tunnel Mill and chicken liver, rooster tail and crank bait will get you some of those hard fighting fish. Large mouth bass will get on fire, also as they come AT EAST FOR AFTON RAMP • ALL DATES 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM in to spawn, soft plastic jigs SATURDAY DIVISION SUNDAY DIVISION and crank and spinner bait will net you some very nice March 26 March 27 fish. Look for Bluegill April 16 April 10 around stumps and laying May 7 April 17 trees on waxworm redJune 4 May 8 worm and nightcrawlers. Catfish will be looking for June 11 June 12 nightcrawlers, cut bait like June 25 June 19 skip jack, shad, goldfish,
Mike Arnold Boar’s Head Bait & Carryout 513-724-1211
Boar’s Head Report Mike Arnold, Owner 724-1211 Howdy Everyone, Welcome to East Fork, we are looking to have a good year of fishing. The spring rains are here. They reded the boat ramp, making it 20 feet longer, so this will help in the fall when the water goes down, looks good. My friend Don did the work, good job Donald! Below you will find the
BOAR’S HEAD BAIT & CARRYOUT 2011 CRAPPIE TOURNAMENT
August 27 September 10 September 24 October 8
AUTO HOME BUSINESS BONDS Call us for all your insurance needs
August 28 September 11 September 25 October 9
Championship Tournament - Two Days: October 22nd and 23rd Cost $75.00 per team - $15.00 goes to the championship fund - $5.00 goes toward Big Crappie 100% payback with the rest of the money. To qualify for the championship tournament, you must fish 8 out of the 10 tournaments. You may use subs if needed. Call Mike at 724-1211 for more information.
E AST FORK S TATE P ARK B RIDLE TRAILS Rules and Regulations to Remember • All riders must stay on designated trail • No new trails, short cuts, or modifications shall be made • Do not detour around muddy areas • Pack out your garbage • Do not tie horses to trees • Dogs must be kept on leashes
Life Jacket Loaners for Children Boaters who need child sized Life Jackets may borrow them from the Corps Visitor Center for the day or weekend
122 Water Street, Milford, OH
513-831-7900 www.lovins-ins.com
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Wear Your Life Jacket – It’s Your Friend for Life! It won’t work if you don’t WEAR IT!
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East Fork State Park - Local News
Hikers brave the cold to conquer the Buckeye Trail BY KRISTIN BEDNARSKI Clermont Sun staff
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Despite the unusually cold temperatures for the last day of March, three dedicated hikers pulled gear out of their cars, bundled up and prepared to complete the Batavia to Milford portion of the Buckeye Trail. The hikers, Bruce “Poppy” Purdy of Grove City, Richard Morgan of McArthur and Robert Leon of Elyria are dedicated. They have all completed almost half, or more than half, of the 1,444 mile Buckeye Trail that loops the state of Ohio and connects its four corners. “We'll be out for about three days,” said Morgan about their hike. “We'll complete a good portion in this area today.” The trio hiked from Batavia to Milford March 31 where they dropped off Purdy's car. They drove to the park office in East Fork State Park and then hiked back to Batavia and spent April 1-2 at East Fork State Park. Both Purdy and Morgan are at about the halfway point, and Leon has completed close to three-fourths of the
Buckeye Trail. “I am just doing what I wanted to do when I was young,” said Morgan. “But work and life got in the way.” Morgan, Purdy and Leon all pursued hiking later in life. Leon retired and hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2004 and Purdy said he started hiking in 2008 and discovered the Buckeye Trail in 2009 with a Boy Scout group. Morgan also said that hiking the trail was a way of pushing himself, and all three hikers agreed that health benefits were a major reason they pursued the trial. “I started for health,” Purdy said. “I took a physical test that said I was 72 years old. Now I am 42, and I feel like it.” All three men have been working toward completing the Buckeye Trail for over two years. The trail, which is the only long distance hiking trail in the state of Ohio, traverses over 40 of Ohio's 88 counties. Purdy said it is currently the longest loop trail until proven otherwise. Purdy, Morgan and Leon are all members of the Buckeye
Spring 2011 JOHN KASICH Governor
DAVID MUSTINE Director - ODNR
CHRIS DAUNER Park Manager East Fork State Park
CLERMONT COUNTY, OHIO Learn More About East Fork State Park’s Camping, Boating & Wildlife
OHIO - America’s Finest State Park System www.ohiostateparks.org - email: east.fork.parks@dnr.state.oh.us Park Office (513) 734-4323 Camp Office (513) 724-6521 Dedicated trail hikers, from left, Richard Morgan of McArthur, Bruce “Poppy” Purdy of Grove City, and Robert Leon of Elyria, traipse along the Batavia Township portion of the Buckeye Trail. Trail Association, and became hiking buddies as a result. “The main purpose, other than personal,” Purdy said about hiking the trail, “Is our association does trail maintenance. Saturday we are meeting up with a group of people to clean up
some of the winter damage.” Other than maintenance, the volunteer-only association provides trail maps and information, hosts events and works to both preserve existing trails and create new trails. Purdy also said the trail gives hikers a taste
In This Issue • Spring Activities & Events • Boar Report • Corps of Engineers Information • East Fork Information • Bridle Trails, Campsite, Park and Hunting Maps
of Ohio's history. The trail features caves, gorges, national parks, valleys and other landmarks. “Plus, what better way to see your country than by hiking it.” Leon said.
‘FIRE WOOD ALERT’ It is illegal to move firewood and ash tree materials out of Ohio’s quarantined areas. These materials may harbor Emerald Ash Borer, a major threat to Ohio’s ash trees. For more details please call: 1-888-OHIO EAB (1-888-644-6322)
‘CAMPING’ For camping reservations call or go online to the following: 1-866-644-6727 or www.ohiostateparks.org
East Fork Camp Office: (513) 724-6521 Stonelick Camp Office: (513) 625-6593 NOTE: Both parks campground offices have seasonal and varied hours of operation For more details, maps and other brochures for East Fork State Park and Stonelick State Park call or e-mail the main office at the following:
(513)734-4323 or East.Fork.Parks@dnr.state.oh.us DON’T FORGET TO GRAB A PARK MAP FOR BOTH PARKS FOR SOME NATURAL AND HISTORICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE AREAS THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING OHIO STATE PARKS
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NEWSPAPERS
Some of the beautiful colors found at the Corps Visitor Center.
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