SPECIAL ISSUE FIELD GUIDE DURING COVID-19 ®

MAY Special Edition 2020

Wildflowers Spring has sprung with natural beauty

Zoo’s Alpaca New residents at Australian Adventure

Family Fishing Let’s get hooked on a new adventure

Bloodroot wildflower adorns the spring landscape A LETTER FROM BRIAN ZIMMERMAN

Hello everyone, I hope this letter finds you and your families well. The impact of COVID-19 on daily life has been challenging for everyone across our community. Typically, in May we would be in the midst of popular spring programming like wildflower hikes and bird walks, as well as gearing up for our big summer special events. And while many CONTENTS programs and events have been canceled or postponed for everyone’s 2 Letter from Brian safety, I want to assure you that we are doing everything we can to 3 Wildflowers in Bloom prepare for those events once it’s safe for us to again gather as a community. 4 Nesting Wood Ducks & In the meantime, I hope you have been able to participate in some of Northeast Ohio’s Birding with Jen spring highlights like the bluebells blooming at Bridal Veil Falls, the natural beauty of our golf courses and the spring greening of the Emerald Necklace. For this special edition 5 Ten Scenic Overlooks of the Emerald Necklace, we want to provide you with a field guide of what’s going on to Explore across Cleveland Metroparks. Hopefully you’ll learn something that will inspire your own 6 Virtual Classrooms & adventure and individual exploration of the park district. Virtual Reality As you know, the Ohio Director of Health has deemed outdoor activities like visiting 7 Native Plants for Ponds Cleveland Metroparks as an essential service. During this time of social distancing, 8 Nature Shop and Tips & Tricks we know that parks provide an important connection to the natural world as well as for Exploring Nature with opportunities for physical activity that can reduce stress and improve mental health. We Children believe that getting out in nature can be more important now than ever. 9 Arrival of Alpacas As your park system, we want to continue to be an important outlet for you and your & Update in Rwanda families during this time. And we want to make sure that everyone is using the parks in a safe manner. It is critically important that everyone practices social distancing at all times 10 2020 Trail Challenge & while in the parks. That includes providing other guests with proper space of at least six New Water Trails feet and please don’t forget to share the trail and warn others as you pass. 11 Spring Fishing with Kids During this time, be prepared for limited access to restrooms and water fountains that 12 Word Puzzles may be closed for your safety. Bring a water bottle that can sustain you for your visit. 14 Directory Please also follow the “pack in, pack out” mentality and help protect our employees by not leaving trash behind in the parks. Finally, avoid all playgrounds and outdoor fitness PLEASE HELP US TO KEEP OUR PARKS OPEN stations as well as other railings or touchpoint surfaces where the virus could easily spread. These areas will be closed until they are deemed safe to use again by health professionals. DO If you’re looking to connect with nature from home, don’t forget to tune into our Virtual Classrooms YOUR PART sponsored by Raising Cane’s. Join us on Facebook Live each weekday to visit with animals from the Zoo, virtually explore the Emerald Necklace, and learn new skills for your next adventure. STAY 6 FEET APART While this disease has impacted every part of our daily lives, we want to remain a place where everyone can find peace and restoration as we have for the past 100+ years. Be safe and we’ll see you soon! For updated closures and program cancellations visit clevelandmetroparks.com/COVID-19

It is critically important that everyone practices social distancing at Brian Zimmerman “ all times while in the parks. That includes providing other guests with Cleveland Metroparks CEO proper space of at least six feet and please don’t forget to share the trail and warn others as you pass. — Brian Zimmerman 2 Emerald Necklace May 2020 | Vol. 69 #5 ” FEATURE ARTICLE Spring Has Sprung Bloom timeline for wildflowers

efore the trees leaf out, the forest floors are covered with Ba variety of spring wildflowers. Did you know it can take up to seven years for some of these flowers to bloom? These ephem- erals are fleeting, some blooming Bloodroot Cut-leaved toothwort Hepatica Purple cress for only a few days, like bloodroot and twinleaf, while others last several weeks. While there are many more, here are some of the

common beauties you may find – MidEarly April many of these bloom into May of these bloom into many within Cleveland Metroparks, but please make sure to leave them Spring beauty Trout lily Twinleaf Wild blue violet be and for everyone to see! Here is a list of some great wildflower locations in Cleveland Metroparks Reservations: Bedford: Hemlock Loop Trail (trail along Tinker’s

Creek) Blue cohosh Bluets Dutchman’s breeches Great white trillium Brecksville: Wildflower Loop Trail Hinckley: Buckeye Trail heading south from

Johnson’s Picnic area across West Drive – Mid April May Late Huntington: Marsh marigold Red trillium Squirrel corn Wild blue phlox Hemlock Loop Trail Mill Stream Run: Red and Yellow mountain bike trails North Chagrin: Scenic Loop Trail

South Chagrin: Golden alexanders Foam flower Jack-in-the-pulpit Mayapple Jackson Field (along Wiley Creek and Chagrin River Trail), Sulphur Springs Picnic Area Rocky River: Mid – Late MayMid – Late Spring wildflower garden near nature center, West Channel Pond Loop Virginia bluebells White baneberry Wild geranium Wild hyacinth

clevelandmetroparks.com 3 BIRDSEYE VIEW Wonderful Wood Ducks sleek, feathered missile slices Dapper Drakes through the forest and lands high Easily one of the world’s most beautiful Aup in an old sycamore tree along birds, the colorful male, or drake, wood the river. Tilting her crested head, the duck is a spectacular sight when decked out female wood duck carefully inspects a dark, in full breeding plumage. With his iridescent oblong cavity in the tree’s massive trunk: feathers, flamboyant crest and blood-red it is perfect. Moving closer, she drops into eyes, it’s hard not to be impressed by the provide and maintain wood duck nesting the hole and disappears to begin preparing male Aix sponsa. A female wood duck may boxes in suitable wetland habitats. For the nest cavity for a clutch of 9 – 12 eggs. be taken by a male’s flashy good looks, easier monitoring and maintenance, these After incubating for about 30 days, the but after breeding has little use for him, artificial nesting sites are often placed in eggs will hatch. Driven by instinct, each and goes about the business of raising her open water just a few feet above the water’s of her tiny ducklings will climb on wobbly offspring solo. Keeping her ducklings warm, surface. The babies get a much easier start legs to the entrance hole and then bravely safe and hidden is the job of the female. to life; they simply climb to the hole’s edge drop to the hard ground Her subtle camouflage colors are well and plop gently to the water below. From some 40 feet below. The suited to the task, but snapping turtles, around Mother’s Day onward, broods of fall seems dangerous, but herons and hawks are always on the wood ducklings may be seen patrolling most ducklings survive lookout for an unsupervised wood thickets of wetland plants growing in and unharmed. Safely on the duckling. Many ducklings do not make around the marshes, ponds, and rivers forest floor, they follow it to adulthood. of Cleveland Metroparks, giving us a their mother to the river or rare glimpse into the secret lives of these a nearby wetland to grow Nesting Sites normally shy and secretive birds. and develop the ability to Natural nesting sites can be scarce, Jeff Riebe – Naturalist fly and live independently. Photo by Tim Krynak and Cleveland Metroparks biologists North Chagrin Nature Center May’s Irresistible Invitation April is a promise For all of April’s joys and wonders, of revival. April is the opening ceremony to Lengthening the natural world’s headliner: May. daylight, warm May invites us to wholly immerse winds and steady rains ourselves in a completely transformed persuade the resurrection and reinvigorated natural world. The pace stars, rivers, ridges and a genetic GPS code of life we’ve craved while is hurried: May is spirited and impatient. that directs them to their destination. enduring winter’s grip. Warm southwest winds find their way to Day by day, thousands of warblers, vireos, The first wildflowers determinedly emerge Lake Erie’s shore. Day by day the forests and tanagers, orioles, hummingbirds, thrushes, from a barren forest floor. A robin’s evening wetlands and fields hum with newly risen sparrows, gnatcatchers, kinglets, and kin serenade returns to complement each life. Day by day, a bursting of new color and arrive in Cleveland Metroparks reservations sunset. The first thunderstorms rumble our hue from the tree canopy to stream edge for rest and refueling, bound for northern souls, the first muddy trails slosh around to hillside and valley. Day after day, a new territories. Their visits are short. Hours, our boots, the first frogs and salamanders awakening of butterflies and dragonflies, or an afternoon, or an evening, before they march victoriously to and from vernal pools. bees, and moths take to the air to pollinate rise to the skies again. Just like the month Our re-acquaintance with beloved Spring. the burgeoning blossoms that blanket the of May, they are spirited and impatient. A reunion with a friend. woods and fields. Might as well sleep with your boots on, The symphony of bird song surges to a to catch the next day’s wave of newly frenzy. Millions of migrant birds take to the arrived birds and blooms. night skies on their remarkable journeys RSVP for May’s invite, now. New discoveries north, some flying from the southern await by the hour. In the forests and fields, points of South America to the Alaskan we belong. wilderness and everywhere in between. Jen Brumfield – Naturalist Their miraculous flights are guided by Photo by Jen Brumfield Rocky River Nature Center 4 Emerald Necklace May 2020 PLACES TO EXPLORE

Astorhurst Overlook: Bedford Reservation Skyline Overlook: West Creek Reservation Sylvan Loop: North Chagrin Reservation Ten Scenic Overlooks to Explore this May

leveland Metroparks Ten to Explore Chagrin Overlook Loop: Ohio and Erie Canal Overlook: presented by Wayside Furniture South Chagrin Reservation Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation Cinspires exploration across all areas Park in the lot on Chagrin Boulevard Located at the 6-mile mark along the of the park district. This month, Cleveland close to where it intersects with Chagrin Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, this Metroparks invites you to explore ten spots River Road. Hike east along the road and overlook features a dramatic bend in that overlook the scenic beauty of the over the bridge crossing the Chagrin River. the Cuyahoga River and a symphony of Emerald Necklace. A short distance from the bridge is the songbirds. Frequented by a nesting pair of Astorhurst Overlook: Bedford Reservation Chagrin Overlook Loop trail. The trail will bald eagles, countless waterfowl and the cross a creek and ascend up to the loop occasional beaver. This overlook makes If you’re searching for a new overlook, trail with fantastic views of the valley for a great spot to stop, sit, and take in the try taking a hike at Astorhurst Park in below. Cuyahoga River Valley. Bedford Reservation. Located up the hill above the ponds near the entrance to the Chippewa Scenic Gorge Overlook: Skyline Overlook: West Creek Reservation park, this overlook provides a wonderful Brecksville Reservation Skyline Overlook holds a stunning position view of Tinker’s Creek as it winds through Located at the Route 82 entrance to up on the hillside. From this nestled deck the landscape. Brecksville Reservation, Chippewa Creek atop Lookout Ridge trail, Skyline Overlook Berea Falls Scenic Overlook: Gorge holds the earth’s history in its rocks. offers views of Cleveland’s stunning skyline Rocky River Reservation Chippewa Creek, in the northern section and Lake Erie. of Brecksville Reservation, flows through a View two railroad bridges as well as the Sylvan Loop: North Chagrin Reservation remarkable gorge that was left behind by East Branch of the Rocky River tumbling Park in the A.B. Williams Memorial Woods the glaciers that once covered this area. over Berea sandstone boulders and layers parking lot and start on the Museum The top layer of rock along the Chippewa of shale at this scenic spot. A nearby Trail until you reach the Sylvan Loop Trail. Creek Gorge is Berea Sandstone, which parking lot off of Valley Parkway provides Here, you’ll find an overlook that provides forms large boulders as it breaks off and easy access to take in Berea Falls from this spectacular views of Dinger’s Marsh and tumbles into the creek. wooden deck. the Chagrin River Valley below. Brookside Overlook: Brookside Reservation My Mountain Scenic Overlook: Brecksville Reservation Tinker’s Creek Gorge Overlook: Venture out to one of the oldest urban Overlook the oak-hickory forest in Bedford Reservation parks in Cleveland history, formerly known Brecksville Reservation at My Mountain Just a few steps from Gorge Parkway in as Brookside Park. From Meadow Ridge Scenic Overlook. Park in the Plateau Picnic Bedford Reservation, the Tinker’s Creek Picnic Area, follow the All-Purpose Trail Area or Oak Grove Picnic Area and follow Gorge Overlook offers awe-inspiring views west as you loop past a series of small the Salamander Trail to the My Mountain of the massive valley below. The occasional wetlands. Be treated with a hilltop peak spur and overlook. bald eagle flyover adds to the majesty of over Big Creek’s valley, which feeds into the this scenic hotspot. Cuyahoga River just three miles to the east. Continue your hike through the mature canopy, and downhill, to find Cherry Tree Visit our website clevelandmetroparks.com/tentoexplore Grove along John Nagy Boulevard. to inspire your next adventure in Cleveland Metroparks.

clevelandmetroparks.com 5 VIRTUAL EXPERIENCES

Continue Learning with Cleveland Metroparks Virtual Classrooms

hen schools across the country Each Virtual Classroom offers something In addition, families and teachers can were impacted by the corona- new and unique for families: take advantage of extra resources such as trivia, coloring pages and fun nature Wvirus in March, Cleveland At 11 a.m., on Cleveland Metroparks stories accessible on the webpage. Metroparks launched its Virtual Classroom Zoo’s Facebook Page, biologists share to offer families continued learning how they are working to secure a future opportunities. The free Virtual Classroom for wildlife at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. sponsored by Raising Cane’s airs three The weekday sessions offer viewers a times each weekday on Facebook Live chance to check-in with their favorite Zoo offering families the chance to learn animals and learn about what it takes to about nature and engage with animals at care for some of the most endangered Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. species in the world. “The community response to our virtual At 1 p.m., on Cleveland Metroparks classrooms has been overwhelming as Facebook Page, park naturalists explore Introducing daily life has quickly changed across our the Emerald Necklace and look for early Cleveland Metroparks region,” said Cleveland Metroparks CEO signs of spring, learn about the forest Brian Zimmerman. “By tuning into these floor, birds and more. Virtual Reality App sessions in real time, families can ask At 3:30 p.m., on Cleveland Metroparks If you own a virtual reality headset questions and engage with our experts, Facebook Page, recreation experts teach or Google cardboard viewer, you can giving them an opportunity to learn and outdoor adventure skills. Topics include now connect with nature through grow and connect with nature from their backpacking, watersports, cycling and Cleveland Metroparks own home.” park exploration. VR application. Enjoy Cleveland Metroparks Virtual Classroom a walk around Hinckley All Virtual Classrooms, including is sponsored by Raising Cane’s, as part of Lake, stroll past episodes, are available on its commitment to investing through the Cleveland Metroparks website in the community and education. Cherry at clevelandmetroparks.com/ Parents of children 12 and under who Blossoms virtualclassroom. Past highlights include participated in the Facebook Live have and more! meeting the Zoo’s newest arrivals — a chance to earn an achievement award three alpacas, sight-seeing two resident that can be exchanged for free food and Bald Eagles in their nest at Rocky River drink. Download the app at Special thanks to our Reservation and meeting animals at the clevelandmetroparks.com/mobileapps Virtual Classroom sponsor nature centers.

Visit our Virtual Classroom at clevelandmetroparks.com/virtualclassroom or on our Cleveland Metroparks & Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Facebook pages.

6 Emerald Necklace May 2020 NATIVE PLANTS Native Plants for Aquariums and Water Gardens

s the world hums to life with May’s plants to natural areas. Hydrilla, known as – one is invasive hydrilla and the other warmer temperatures, homeowners one of the worst water weeds, was likely is native Elodea canadensis. These two Abegin to plan special water features introduced to Cleveland Metroparks by plants look similar, but hydrilla will take for their backyards. Water garden and an aquarium dump in the late 2000’s. over a waterbody and the Elodea will aquarium owners know that a big part Hydrilla can grow an inch a day and coexist as part of a balanced ecosystem. If of any picture-perfect water feature are restrict boating, fishing, and swimming. It aquarium owners purchase native plants the plants! Fragrant water lilies burst with is a warrior species that quickly becomes and use scientific names to identify them, snow-white petals, blue flag iris attracts the only plant in an underwater forest. we can all create a culture that demands pollinators, and underwater native plants native aquatic plants and guards against like Elodea provide scaffolding and food for Proper Disposal is Vital accidental introductions. an underwater ecosystem. Invasive plants I should mention it is prohibited to can quickly disrupt the delicate nature of release any wild or domestic animal (or Ohio Takes Action these unseen “underwater forests”. So, as plant) in Cleveland Metroparks. Re-home Ohio has taken strides to defend our you purchase new plants this May, pause unwanted aquarium pets responsibly waters from invasive plants. In January to consider the ways that aquariums and — do not release them in the outdoors. 2018, Ohio added 38 species to the list backyard water gardens are connected to Dispose of non-native plants safely in the of invasive plants – not to be sold or natural areas. trash. propagated. Invasive plants still enter

Native water lilies Hydrilla (left) and Elodea Pickerelweed

For starters, water gardens may hold Support Local Ecosystem our state via online trade and new, exotic invasive plants with Houdini-like The right plants in water gardens can species appear for sale regularly. adaptations to escape into a nearby support a local, native ecosystem. waterway. Yellow floating heart Check out Ohio Wetland Association or Rich, indigo flowers of pickerel weed (Nymphoides peltata) has seeds like OSU Extension’s Pond Updates for good (Pontederia cordata) provide food for Velcro, designed to hitchhike on recommendations on native plants. pollinators as they bloom through duck feathers from one waterbody to Protect your waters. Ask for native plants summer and into fall. Native water lilies another. Fragments of European frogbit only for your aquarium and water garden! (Nymphaea odorata) will survive an Ohio (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) escaped from winter and return with brilliant, white Mark Warman a research farm in Ottawa, Canada in the blooms next year. Plants in the genus Aquatic Invasive Species 1930s, and now threatens Ohio’s coastal Potamogeton, the “river neighbors,” can Project Coordinator marshes. The plants have lily pad mats be an excellent addition to any water so thick they actually reduce the oxygen garden and support good fish habitat. available in the water below.” Alerts & Closures: Cleveland Aquariums can also benefit from native, Metroparks has implemented several Avoid Aquarium Dumping of green foliage. Rooted eel grass (Vallisneria park restrictions to encourage social Non-Native Plants americana), coontail (Ceratophyllum distancing and help prevent the spread Live aquarium plants can also be demersum), and Elodea provide color and of COVID-19. All park visits should connected to natural waterways, though diversity to any tank. For every exotic anticipate impacts that are necessary to they require a little help from humans to species there is a beautiful, Ohio-native help mitigate crowding. For updates on get there. Aquarium dumps of unwanted plant for an aquarium or water garden. closures and cancellations visit: pets often introduce live, non-native Take the photo of two plants in my hand clevelandmetroparks.com/COVID-19

clevelandmetroparks.com 7 All locations currently closed. Shop online for merchandise.

APRIL SPECIAL MAY SPECIAL Online Spring Merchandise

Hooded Jacket $40

$ 10 $10 T-shirt Bird Feeder Regular price $20 Offer valid 4/1/20 – 4/30/20. Online at Offer valid 5/1/20 – 5/31/20.Online at clevelandmetroparks.com/parks/shop clevelandmetroparks.com/parks/shop Tees $20

Hats All Nature Shops are currently $20 closed. Visit our website for a great selection of park apparel and general merchandise! Shop online at clevelandmetroparks.com/parks/shop Tips & Tricks For Exploring Nature with Children Having a plan to guide family exploration can help • Fill a backpack with a small container to look make it a fun adventure for everyone! Check out at bugs, a magnifying glass, small binoculars these tips and tricks for how to start exploring nature or make your own simple pair with empty with your family: toilet paper rolls to help small children focus. • Dress for the weather. Suggested gear includes a • Snap a photo to look it up instantly on an raincoat, rain boots, hiking boots or sneakers that app. Some apps are available for free like can get muddy, sunscreen and sunglasses, then you Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab, PictureThis- can explore despite the weather. Plant Identifier, Picture Insect – Insect ID Pro • Bring a water bottle for drinking and hand sanitizer or Night Sky. and paper towels for cleaning hands. Protect our • Try a different perspective. Look high, look employees by not leaving trash behind. low, stand right up next to a tree and follow • Know how to spot poison ivy. You will notice three its branches up to the sky, look for shapes in leaves and, if it is climbing up a tree, a hairy vine will the clouds, look at things from upside down. be easy to see. Check the area before letting children • Anything you examine should be left as it and pets explore. was found. Remember, the natural world is for all to enjoy. 8 Emerald Necklace May 2020 ZOO NEWS Australian Adventure? Alpaca My Bags!

lpaca (Vicugna pacos) are the By way of a community partner’s Adventure. Here they live alongside smallest type of camel uniquely generous donation, three female alpaca other typical Australian farm animals such Aknown for their luxurious hair coats. now call Cleveland Metroparks Zoo home. as sheep, goats, miniature horses and Despite their long necks, they are compact The three girls are less than a year old, donkeys. Visitors can also observe how animals that are calm, alert and personable having been born in August of 2019. they communicate through their soft due to their herding nature. Those Alpaca generally live to be 15 to 20 years hums, expressive heads, necks, ears and characteristics lead to their domestication old. As adults they can be expected to tails. Australian Adventure is bound to be nearly 6,000 years ago in South America. weigh in the range of 100 to 150 pounds an all-time favorite for the Zoo’s youngest Alpaca were introduced to Australia as with a shoulder height of approximately visitors when they get the opportunity to farm animals; shorn for their fleece used 36 inches. There are minimal differences get up-close to this new species. in textiles. Today there are hundreds of between the sexes, with males being thousands of alpaca around the world, larger with a few differences in teeth including Australia and even in Ohio. structure. Being solid brown, brown/ Ohio has long been an favorite site white and solid white, the three represent for alpaca farms due to its centralized just some of the natural varieties of fleece location, abundant pasture land and colors. suitable climate. Even though they are a The alpaca can be appreciated in the regionally important species, alpaca are contact barn area within Australian new to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Building Conservation Capacity in Rwanda: The Memoirs Program Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (CMZ) has been they collected on mountain gorillas, partnering with the Dian Fossey Gorilla while Augustin surveyed tree cavities Fund (DFGF) in Rwanda since 2014 to inside and outside VNP. Clarisse and provide advanced training in conservation Alexis learned to apply GIS mapping science for biology majors at the University techniques to investigate bamboo of Rwanda (UR). Laura Bernstein-Kurtycz density in VNP and land use in Gishwati- (Graduate Research Associate, CMZ), Mukura National Park. Stephen Mather (Geographic information Finally, Steve and I were honored to be Systems [GIS] Manager, CM) and Dr. Kristen invited to present a research seminar on Lukas (Director of Conservation & Science, week, they had the opportunity to practice “Photogrammetry for Conservation” at CMZ) recently returned from Rwanda where their oral presentations and receive the Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity they were working with UR students on the feedback, meet individually with advisors, and Natural Resource Management. We students’ senior research thesis projects, or and work with the three of us on editing spoke on the theme of “Photogrammetry memoirs. Here Laura shares her perspective and polishing final presentations. for Conservation” and we each on the latest Memoirs Program activities All ten students in the Memoirs Program described projects involving the use of and outcomes: presented an impressive array of projects. measurements taken from videos and Constantin and Jeanette worked in the he students arrived at the Fossey photos for conservation research. Overall, community around Volcanoes National Fund campus in Musanze, Rwanda, this year’s trip was highly successful, and Park (VNP), surveying individuals on on Monday morning, fresh from their we are grateful to Cleveland Metroparks T conservation knowledge and bamboo midterm exams. Last summer, they had Zoo and the Cleveland Zoological usage. Diogene, Donath, and Celine spent six to eight weeks here, collecting Society for making it possible. presented results from their work in data for their senior research projects, and the wetlands of VNP. Jonas and Godfrey Laura Bernstein-Kurtycz now they were back to analyze data and analyzed hours of behavior data Graduate Research Associate, CMZ prepare their preliminary results. Over the

clevelandmetroparks.com 9 VIRTUAL EXPERIENCES Embrace the Challenge... the Trail Challenge

any of us have faced new Water Trails in Your Backyard challenges recently, and for some Mof us, nature has been the calm In Northeast Ohio, we are fortunate to the more technical river sections featuring in the storm. We want to offer another have miles of paddling opportunities. whitewater or open water paddling challenge to you, but we promise it will be From the calm inland waters of Hinckley that links to the Lake Erie Water Trail a fun, rewarding one! Join us for Cleveland and Wallace Lakes to the newly state near Rivergate Park. In the latter section, Metroparks Trail Challenge and complete designated Cuyahoga River Water Trail paddlers should be aware of freighters a variety of trails using any form of exercise to the open views of Lake Erie. Work in this busy shipping channel. you prefer from hiking, cycling, paddling, continues to officially designate the Lake Help us celebrate National Safe and more. Earn different prizes when you Erie Water Trail, which will trace the great Boating Week, May 16-22, by being complete 10 or 20 of the 25 listed trails. In lake’s shoreline from the western border an informed paddler: celebration of two national movements, of Huntington Reservation to the eastern trails range from paved, natural surface, border of Sims Park in Euclid. Paddlers • Dress for submersion. Water steals body and water. May is National Bike Month and should be aware of the wind and wave heat 25x faster than air. May 16-22 is National Safe Boating Week. conditions on Lake Erie and only paddle within their ability. Look for additional • Minimize the water’s cold effects by To get started visit signage and safety brochures as the trail wearing paddling specific clothing clevelandmetroparks.com/trailchallenge develops. (wetsuit, drysuit, layers of non-cotton clothing, etc.) When wet, cotton loses The Cuyahoga River Water Trail offers an the ability to keep you warm. experience for all paddlers regardless of their level of experience. Newer paddlers • Always wear a life jacket, especially in cold should seek the calm, nature rich section water. Cold water is a game changer. Even of the Upper Cuyahoga River. Paddlers good swimmers’ muscles stop working in with added experience can find intrigue in cold water. A lifejacket is a lifesaver.

Find out more at clevelandmetroparks.com/paddlesafety. Stay Bike Aware during National Bike Month Whether you’re completing the Trail other vehicle, make sure to pass only when more technically Challenge or getting on your bike for it is safe to do so, allowing 3 feet on the challenging some fresh air, Cleveland Metroparks side and enough distance in front to pass, mountain bike offers a variety of biking opportunities. as those biking on the road are probably trails with greater When riding on the all-purpose trails, be going faster than you think. elevation gain especially considerate of others as you pass. and longer Lastly, Cleveland Metroparks offers Remember to “Stay Right, Pass Left.” Calling distances. Check trail conditions online or numerous places to mountain bike. If you’re this out when passing can be helpful. onsite as these trails close to all users based new to biking off-road, consider Bedford or on rain levels. No matter how you get out If going faster or road biking, the parkway is West Creek Reservations as your first trails. this spring, we hope you enjoy National a better place to be. If you’re driving a car or Royalview Trail and Ohio & Erie Canal are Bike Month from the saddle of a bike!

10 Emerald Necklace May 2020 FISHING Family Fishing: [ Perfect for Social Distancing [ ooking for something new to try or basement collecting dust when to set the hook and giving just a fun way to get out with your can work well too, with kids a focal point for their attention. Lfamily this spring? Look no further cleaning and new line. A Bait Tips for Beginners than fishing! Fishing is a great way to get good all-around hook When deciding what bait to use, out in nature, learn something new, and to start with is a #6 worms are a good choice. Kids spend meaningful time with your family. long shank Carlisle or enjoy looking for them in the lawn Best of all, anglers younger than 16 do not Aberdeen style hook. with a flashlight at night following need a fishing license. Everyone else can Simple Set-Up a drenching rain. Worms can also purchase a license online at wildohio.gov. Setting up a rod doesn’t be purchased at bait and many As a bonus, you can keep your limits of fish need to be complicated. convenience stores. A benefit of and enjoy them for dinner as a family. First, you will need to going to a bait store is that you First Time Fishing is Easy string the fishing line will have additional bait options Whether you’ve never fished before or through the guides (little metal loops) from maggots to minnows, as well as fish together regularly, there’s always along the rod. Next, you will attach the being a great place to pick up fishing tips. something new to learn that can hook at the end of the line using a clinch Other options that you may already have help make your trips more rewarding. knot. There are tutorials for tying this at home are canned corn or cut up pieces Getting started is easy. All you need is a knot on YouTube. Give a pull to make of hot dogs. An important lesson with beginner’s spincast rod and reel combo sure the hook is secure and then attach bait is to always dispose of all worms you equipped with a hook, bobber, a couple 2-3 BB size split shot about a foot from purchase in the trash. Worms should not of split shot, 6-10 lb. monofilament line the hook to keep the bait down deeper be released in the woods or your yard, as and bait. For young children, the Dock in the water. Finally, attach the bobber they are not native and harm the native Demon is an affordable and durable rod about 3-4 feet from the hook. Change plants and animals. and reel combo that is available at many the bobber placement until you start Park Fishing Locations retailers, including online for under $20. getting bites. The bobber serves as a bite There are many great places to fish However, the rod that has been in the indicator, allowing the angler to know within Cleveland Metroparks. Family- friendly spots include Wallace Lake, Ledge Lake, Ohio and Erie Canal, Shadow Lake and Strawberry Pond. For a complete list of fishing areas Always Follow CDC’s Guidance visit clevelandmetroparks.com. Also, When Heading to Cleveland Metroparks Cleveland Metroparks fishing report is uploaded every Thursday — fall through spring and monthly in summer. It includes fishing updates for the different bodies of water, fish stocking updates Think First Wash Hands Social Distancing Do not use the parks or Wash your hands often, carry hand Provide other park users with throughout the park and photos from trails if you are exhibiting sanitizer, avoid touching surfaces with proper space of at least six feet local anglers. Please send photos from symptoms. bare hands such as railings or benches. at all times during your visit. your outing to Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at md@clevelandmetroparks. com to be included in the fishing report! Also contact Mike if you would like a Prepare for Your Trip Share the Trail Playgrounds copy of our Fishing Areas of Cleveland Be prepared for limited access Share the trail and warn other Closed Metroparks booklet. to public restrooms and trail users of your presence as All playgrounds and water fountains that may be you pass. outdoor tness stations Elizabeth Kresse closed for your safety. are closed for safety. Recreation Specialist, Youth Outdoors

3/23/2020 Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Report is available at ForFor updated closures and program cancellations visit clevelandmetroparks.com/COVID-19 clevelandmetroparks.com/fishing-report

clevelandmetroparks.com 11 PUZZLES Zoo Animals Word Scramble WORD SEARCH Use the letters scrambled to spell the animal’s name next to each picture. Find Cleveland Metroparks 18 reservations scrambled in the letter above. Words can be found in the following directions: Across, Down and Diagonal. 1. ➔ ➔ ➔ ______R T W A O I W E S T C R E E K N R I L O L A G O H I N C K L E Y B E D F O R D C R E R W A S H I N G T O N I A K E R R M R C Y L N C A M R O O 2. Y K N N O T A I O I G L I D H I ______R I O O V D A G A I I V L O U R P A L E T E N H I L T E R A A C D O V I L S N B V B R A D L E Y W O O D S V T I E U C L I D C R E E K R T U I G R H G A R F I E L D P A R K N C 3. ______M H B R E C K S V I L L E K G R O O H I O E R I E C A N A L T E F A G I R E F B R O O K S I D E O I T M K O E R B E N O R T H C H A G R I N K L A K E F R O N T I Y N U C K B 4. E S O U T H C H A G R I N I O B ______

WORDS TO FIND: There are no spaces between words in puzzle. N D E I R E R E B O I N I R G A H C H T U O S E

B K C U N Y I T N O R F E K A ACACIA HUNTINGTON L

K N I R G A H C H T R O N E B R

WESTCREEK

E O K M T I O E D I S K O O R BEDFORD LAKEFRONT B

WASHINGTON

E T L A N A C E I R E O I H O O SOUTHCHAGRIN

BIG CREEK MILL STREAM RUN ROCKYRIVER

R G K E L L I V S K C E R B H M

OHIOERIECANAL

C N K R A P D L E I F R A G H R

BRADLEY WOODS NORTH CHAGRIN NORTHCHAGRIN

MILLSTREAMRUN G I U T R K E E R C D I L C U E

LAKEFRONT

I T V S D O O W Y E L D A R B V

BRECKSVILLE OHIO ERIE CANAL HUNTINGTON

B N S L I V O D C A A R E T L I HINCKLEY

GARFIELDPARK

R U O L V I I A G A D V O O I

BROOKSIDE ROCKY RIVER R

EUCLIDCREEK 5.

I H D I L G I O I A T O N N K Y BROOKSIDE

BRECKSVILLE O O R M A C N L Y C R M R R E

EUCLID CREEK SOUTH CHAGRIN K

BRADLEYWOODS ______

A I N O T G N I H S A W R E R C

BIGCREEK

BEDFORD D R O F D E B Y E L K C N I H GARFIELD PARK WASHINGTON O

ACACIA N K E E R C T S E W I O A W T

HINCKLEY WEST CREEK R

WORD SEARCH WORD N O G K O A A R PAT PARKS

12 Emerald Necklace May 2020 Shown: Euclid Creek Reservation ANSWERS: 1. GORILLA 2. ELEPHANT 3. GIRAFFE 4. REINDEER 5. KANGAROO 5. REINDEER 4. GIRAFFE 3. ELEPHANT 2. GORILLA 1. ANSWERS: FISHING Zoo Animals Word Scramble Use the letters scrambled to spell the animal’s name next to each picture.

1. ______

R I L O L A G

2. ______

P A L E T E N H

3. ______

F A G I R E F

4. ______

N D E I R E R E

5. ______

N O G K O A A R

clevelandmetroparks.com 13 ANSWERS: 1. GORILLA 2. ELEPHANT 3. GIRAFFE 4. REINDEER 5. KANGAROO 5. REINDEER 4. GIRAFFE 3. ELEPHANT 2. GORILLA 1. ANSWERS: 4101 Fulton Parkway PRSRT STD Cleveland, Ohio 44144-1923 U.S. POSTAGE PAID DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY Cleveland, Ohio Permit No. 2911

printed on recycled paper

Emerald Necklace® Directory Published monthly by: Board of Park Commissioners Cleveland Metroparks Volunteer Services Cleveland Metroparks Bruce G. Rinker Dan T. Moore Administration Offices 440-331-8237 President Vice President 216-635-3200 216-635-3200/24-hour info clevelandmetroparks.com/ Debra K. Berry Brian M. Zimmerman 4101 Fulton Parkway volunteer clevelandmetroparks.com Vice President Chief Executive Officer Cleveland, OH 44144 clevelandmetroparks.com Rental Facilities 216-635-3304 Cleveland Metroparks Police Accidents or Emergencies Nature Centers: 440-333-4911 Brecksville Nature Center Cleveland Metroparks Zoo & 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive The RainForest Brecksville, OH 44141 216-661-6500/24-hour info Brecksville Reservation 3900 Wildlife Way 440-526-1012 Cleveland, OH 44109 futureforwildlife.org CanalWay Center 4524 E. 49th Street Cleveland Metroparks Golf Cuyahoga Heights, OH 44125 Golf Services/440-232-7247 Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation (general course info & inquiries) 216-206-1000 clevelandmetroparks.com/golf North Chagrin Nature Center The Chalet Recreation Area 401 Buttermilk Falls Parkway 16200 Valley Parkway Mayfield Village, OH 44094 Strongsville, OH 44136 North Chagrin Reservation Mill Stream Run Reservation 440-473-3370 440-572-9990 Rocky River Nature Center Lakefront Reservation 24000 Valley Parkway Administration Building North Olmsted, OH 44070 8701 Lakeshore Blvd. Rocky River Reservation Cleveland, OH 44108 440-734-6660 216-881-8141 Watershed Stewardship Center Outdoor Recreation 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive 216-341-1704 Parma, OH 44134 West Creek Reservation Cleveland Metroparks app available for download for iPhone® and Android®. clevelandmetroparks.com/or 440-887-1968 iPhone®and iPad® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Outdoor Experiences Android® is a trademark of Google LLC 216-881-8141 Cleveland Metroparks does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age or disability in employment, services or access to programs or activities. Cover photo: Wildflower in bloom at a Cleveland Metroparks reservation. Emerald Necklace is also available online at clevelandmetroparks.com Additional photos courtesy of Cleveland Metroparks photo archive, unless © Registered trademarks of Cleveland Metroparks. otherwise noted.