spring 2011 FREE parkways

Photo by Elzora.com Photography Get Out and Bike! Spring is here; get in gear! Check out our cycling guide. See full story on pages 20–23.

Cycling is good for you and the environment cycle safely: we show you how See pages 10–11 See pages 12–15 2 save the date Reb mem er to Sv a e the Date Be sure to mark your calendars for these upcoming Five Rivers MetroParks Events!

M arch 5 M arch 12 Miami valley S t. patrick’s day gardening conference at the market S inclair Community College PN C 2nd Street Market

April 15 April 16 tree seedling adopt-a-park giveaway Check locations at PN C 2nd Street Market metroparks.org/Adopt

April 30 - April 30 May 1 wildflower and mayfair plant sale native plant sale Cox Arboretum MetroPark W egerzyn Gardens MetroPark

My a 7 My a 13 kids’ fishing derby urban nights P ossum Creek MetroPark R iverScape MetroPark

My a 20 June 4 national bike paddle in the park to work day pancake breakfast E astwood MetroPark (Lake) R iverScape MetroPark

For more information about these upcoming events or any of the programs and events offered by MetroParks each month, check the back section of this issue of ParkWays or visit www.metroparks.org metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. in this issue of parkways 3 IN THIS ISSUE S pring 2011 spring is spectacular at metroparks! Feature Profile EDUCATION bike safety tips a healthy cycle Stay safe when you’re This beginner’s guide to enjoying a bike ride by cycling in the Miami Valley following these handy tips. has you covered. See pages 12–15 See pages 20–23

special features RECREATION volunteerism bike voyage Learn about MetroParks’ MetroParks lines up best volunteer patrol. bets for cycling day trips. See pages 6–7 See pages 16–17

Top Ten bumpy ride Things To Do Mountain biking is a great Check out the variety of way to be active in nature. spring fun waiting in your See pages 18–19 MetroParks! See page 4

CONSERVATION nature bike Get the lowdown on activities going on in your adventures MetroParks! Connect with us on Facebook at Check out these best bets www.facebook.com/fiveriversmetroparks. for discovering nature from You can also get updates by following us on the seat of your bike. Twitter:www.twitter.com/metroparkstweet . See pages 8–9

pedaling the environment O nline extra Find out how cycling makes Visit metroparks.org/cycling a positive impact on the ParkWays is your guide environment. to find an guide to buying a See pages 10–11 to all the great activities and bike and a list of local cycling programs MetroParks offers retailers. Turn to page 20 for every month. Check out the Activity Guide beginning on page more tips and a buyer’s guide. 26 and get outside!

M etroParks Commissioners Five Rivers MetroParks is dedicated to the protection and stewardship of Greater Dayton’s natural heritage and to inspiring appreciation and understanding of these treasures through nature-based outdoor recreational and educational opportunities and experiences. This is all made possible through your levy support. Thank you!

Alan F. Pippenger Karen L. Davis Irvin G. Bieser, Jr. 4 there is always something to do at five rivers metroparks

#2 Visit the new Bike Hub at RiverScape MetroPark and learn about the exciting amenities 3 especially for cycling commuters.

1 #1 Try a group ride, like Bike for the Health of It. Check out metroparks.org/BikeHealth for a #3 Use the bike lanes to travel between your complete list of times and places. 2 favorite downtown Dayton locations. Top Ten Things to enjoy by bike in your five rivers MetroParks Photo by Elzora.com Photography TS HI spring #5 Plan a group ride in your neighborhood. Find interactive maps at www.miamivalleytrails.org.

5

4 Photo by Amanda Barbosa 7 #4 Use the Great Miami River Bikeway to visit #7 Swap a bike for your car to complete one kid-friendly destinations like Carillon Historical short errand this week. Park or the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery.

#8 Spend an afternoon biking on the Mad River Bikeway riding from Dayton to Eastwood 6 MetroPark. #6 Test drive a child seat or kid trailer from Ride the River Rentals, open weekdays and holidays Memorial Day through Labor Day at RiverScape MetroPark’s rental booth.

#9 Take a lap around MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA) at Huffman 10 MetroPark. #10 Log on to metroparks.org/cycling to get the latest on local biking activities, clubs, cycling 8 Photo by Elzora.com Photography 9 resources and upcoming events. metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. thoughts from the board 5 3 Friends, We have come to a very exciting access to park programs and juncture in the history of Five features, or developing nature Rivers MetroParks. Choosing a new play areas for children, Five Rivers executive director is no easy task, MetroParks is committed to creating but we are confident in our selection an independent outdoor lifestyle for of the right person to stand at the our fellow residents and delivering helm of this agency as we tackle new a personal, long-lasting natural challenges and work together to experience with every park visit. protect our region’s natural heritage. We promise to enrich this region’s Charlie Shoemaker has provided vitality. Five Rivers MetroParks Five Rivers MetroParks with solid will continue to collaborate with leadership as executive director community partners to promote Alan F. Pippenger MetroParks Board of for nearly 10 years. In selecting the region and showcase outdoor Commissioners President his successor, the Board of Park opportunities that advance Greater Commissioners seeks to continue Dayton’s image and vibrancy. We the progress Charlie has made will also continue to offer rewarding during his tenure while leading this volunteer opportunities that foster agency to new heights. Regardless learning and hands-on application in of who sits behind the executive a variety of MetroParks settings and director’s desk, there are certain disciplines. values to which any leader of this We promise to respect your trust organization must adhere, including a and continue as a model of public commitment to our mission and the fiscal responsibility and integrity, founding principle of conservation. giving good return on your tax We promise to protect our natural investment. Five Rivers MetroParks heritage. Five Rivers MetroParks will, where appropriate, aggressively was founded in 1963 to preserve seek alternate funding sources to our natural spaces. We will continue stretch local tax dollars and keep this tradition, managing wildlife and spending focused on our strategic this region’s natural habitats using priorities while maintaining flexibility the most practical and ecological to respond to the ever-changing methods available to ensure long- community environment. term health and survival. Five Thank you for your continued Rivers MetroParks will continue support of Five Rivers MetroParks. to protect land and waterways, We are as excited about our new nurture partnerships for local land leadership as we are grateful for conservation and habitat restoration, those who built this agency and and support conservation-based earned the respect and trust of this educational programs and volunteer community over the past 48 years. opportunities. We look forward to introducing our We promise to connect people new executive director to you soon to nature. Whether it’s through and continuing our important work updating park areas to improve with the excellence you have come visitor experiences, increasing to expect.

it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 6v fi e rivers metroparks volunteer cameo

MVP PROGRAM OFFERS FUN AND PURPOSE TO AREA CYCLIST

Jim Kinney and Cliff Maxwell. “They Columbus recumbent riders at told me that the MVP program was RiverScape MetroPark in 2010. “I just getting started and suggested escorted them on a slight detour and I sign up,” Chris explains. “Training into Eastwood MetroPark. I really After years of spending thousands was pretty easy. Radio training might like helping people I meet.” of dollars on automobile fuel and have been the most intimidating Being an MVP is rewarding for Chris, maintenance, Chris Brown realized at first, but the instructor, Lt. Mark all he got in return was a bigger who encourages anyone interested Arendt, made it was very clear and in combining an activity they enjoy waistline. That’s when he returned to simple.” The street cycling training bicycling. He has enjoyed a healthy, with volunteer service to give it a Chris received was perhaps the most try. “Talking on the radio is not as happy experience ever since, making useful bit of instruction, he says. new friends, meeting new people, intimidating as you think, and first “The Road-I course truly made me aid usually involves handing out and new, exciting challenges. “I more confident riding in traffic. Being like being able to ride farther than Band-Aids more than it does any real ‘eyes and ears’ for the Rangers and emergencies,” he says. “It’s a great I think I can, like from my house, developing friendships with them is south of downtown Dayton, to way to help others while you get out one of the most rewarding parts of and ride.” Taylorsville MetroPark or even Troy!” the program.” The MVPs have As a member of the MetroParks since expanded to include hikers Chris can sympathize with those Volunteer Patrol (MVP) program and and equestrians. who lost interest in cycling. After Bikeways Director for the Dayton getting his driver’s license he didn’t Cycling Club, Chris gets to share his As an MVP, Chris patrols the ride a bike for over 18 years. But passion for cycling with others. bikeways for a little over 50 hours he says it’s never too late to return. per session, and he says the best “Start slow and ride with a friend During a 2001 overnight cycling trip, part about being on duty is the sponsored by MetroParks, Chris met or group of friends—preferably ability to help others. “In 2003, we someone who have just started escorted the GOATS—Greater Ohio riding again, himself,” Chris suggests. Area Tandem Society—and the Mad “Contact the Dayton Cycling Club, River Bikeway was flooded. We had MetroParks, Miami Valley Regional to get some people over the flooded Planning Commission or the Miami area, then re-route the rest of them Conservancy District for information on a detour,” he recalls. “I also got and maps. Try MetroParks’ “Bike to lead a group of Boy Scouts from for the Health of It” series, but be Kentucky, who had come up to earn aware that riding in a group requires their cycling merit badges on our practice. And stop to eat a lot! That trails in 2005.” Another memorable makes it fun! You’ll burn off the experience was running across the calories on the way home.” metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. volunteer opportunities 7

B ECOME an mvp Those who are interested in learning more about the MVP (MetroParks Volunteer Patrol) program, would like to be included on the list to receive information about upcoming training sessions, or have other questions about the program adopt-a-park should contact Rachel Brand at (937) 564-5431 or e-mail SATurday, april 16 [email protected]. Attention volunteers, local businesses and service clubs: Join us for a day of regional cleanup of Five Rivers MetroParks and waterways throughout the county. O nline extra Five Rivers MetroParks Volunteers of all ages, from young children to seniors, cycling page are invited to help us make our parks and river corridors www.metroparks.org/cycling healthier and friendlier places to visit. Each volunteer will Miami Valley Regional receive a free lunch. MetroParks will also Planning Commission www.mvrpc.org provide gloves, trash bags and drinking water. Miami Conservancy District For more information or to sign up, contact the www.miamiconservancy.org volunteer service manager at (937) 275-PARK Dayton Cycling Club or visit metroparks.org/adopt. www.daytoncyclingclub.org

it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 8 “cycle” of nature PLENTY OF WILDLIFE TO Explore the lagoon at Eastwood MetroPark. The Mad River Bikeway runs DISCOV ER on thE BIKEWAYS right next to this habitat that’s perfect for Hooded warblers. Floodplain forests. bird watching. Look for migrant waterfowl, Rainbow darters. Prairie forbs. These plants gulls, terns, and swallows. Don’t forget to and animals can be found as you hike observe this park’s grassland openings— through your favorite MetroPark. But they former prairies that retain the rich prairie also can be experienced from the seat of soil and lend themselves to prairie a bicycle. Here are a few suggestions for restoration. experiencing nature as you explore the Ride the Stillwater River Bikeway region’s extensive bikeways. to Englewood MetroPark and take Have you ever visited the Dull Woods advantage of additional fishing Conservation Area? It’s one of the opportunities since the removal of the “secret” MetroParks, and one of the low dam. Not only has the health of best ways to access these wonderful the river increased, the abundance of 8-acre woods in Clay Township is via the common carp has diminished, allowing Wolf Creek Bikeway. Take in wildflower the emergence of other species, such and tree and shrub diversity in this tiny as bluegill, golden redhorse, channel remnant of the vast swamp forests that catfish, green sunfish, northern hognose once covered northwest Montgomery sucker, and 17 additional species recently County. You’ll even run into one of the identified in these waters. biggest trees in the MetroParks—an oak Huffman MetroPark hosts a variety of tree that stands 122 feet high and 209 natural wonders to visit when you ride the inches around! Wright Brothers-Huffman Prairie Bikeway. Check out picturesque Huffman Lake, where you can observe aviary mainstays such as double-crested cormorants, herons, Canada geese, and ducks. In the spring, be on the lookout for rare species, such as Western grebe, osprey, and white-winged scoter. Nearby MoMBA, MetroParks Mountain Biking Area, is home to beautiful hardwood forests. Find the best view in the house from

conservation the observation deck at Taylorsville MetroPark. The Great Miami River metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. cons ervation 9

O nline extra To plan your bicycling nature discovery, log on to www.mapmyride.com and chart your next ride.

NATURAL ADVENTURES BOX PROGRAM TRAINING SESSIONS NOW AVAILABLE Child care facilitators looking for a way to incorporate more outdoor time for their students now have an easy way to get kids outside playing and learning—the Natural Adventures Box program! Any childcare facility interested in participating in the program must attend a free training session to gain access to the boxes. Only those present at the training will Bikeway connects you to this Wolf Creek at Wesleyan be authorized to reserve a Natural Adventures Box. Once training is fantastic viewing platform where MetroPark makes a great, complete, facilitators can access you can look out over this mature refreshing stop on a warm day the boxes and their content upland forest, featuring colorful when you ride the Wolf Creek for FREE. spring wildflowers, second-growth Bikeway. Keep your eyes peeled Upcoming training dates include: woodlands, natural succession for rainbow and greenside darters, areas, a few managed grasslands, rosefin shiners and crawfish as you My a 15, 1-4pm, and extensive floodplain forests. splash around to cool off. If you’re Sugarcreek MetroPark Be on the lookout for both bringing the kids along, grab some May 21, 1-4pm, riparian and upland forest birds at nets from home and don’t waste Englewood MetroPark Taylorsville MetroPark. Frequent a fantastic opportunity for them park guests include Kentucky and to experience nature while they May 22, 1-4pm, hooded warblers, and long-eared explore the world around them Germantown MetroPark and northern saw-whet owls. from the seat of a bike! For more information or to register, contact Joshua York at (937) 277-4178, or e-mail [email protected]. MetroParks applauds these child care centers for taking advantage of the Natural Adventures Box program in 2010: Early Beginnings of Centerville Inspire Center for Learning Wilma Valentine Creative Learning Center Evergreen Children’s Center Observation deck at Taylorsville MetroPark. it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 10 conservation pd e al your way toleaner c air BICYCLING CONTRIBUTES TO AT BET ER ENVIRONMENT It’s no secret that bicycling promotes physical health. Swapping one or two short trips a week using a bike rather than a car has been shown to make significant impacts on overall health of the rider, but it’s not just our bodies that can benefit from each ride: The environmental gains accumulated per person, per trip According to the Nationwide Here are further arguments in favor can be staggering. The League of Personal Transportation Survey, of parking the car and hopping American Bicyclists (who recently 25 percent of all trips are made on a bike for that quick trip to the designated Dayton with the bronze- within a mile of the home, 40 Post Office around the corner, or level bike-friendly city status) has percent of all trips are within when you need to swing by the collected impressive statistics with two miles of the home, and 50 Andersons up the street to drop off regard to how cycling is better for percent of the working population the DVD copy of the Little League the environment than driving: commutes five miles or less to championships. Keep these stats Motor vehicle emissions work. Yet more than 82 percent (courtesy our friends at the Bikes represent 31 percent of total of trips five miles or less are made Belong Coalition): carbon dioxide, 81 percent of by personal motor vehicle. Bicyclists in Philadelphia ride carbon monoxide, and 49 percent A Rodale Press survey found 260,000 miles daily, saving 47,450 of nitrogen oxides released in that Americans want to have tons of CO from being emitted the U.S. (The Green Commuter, 2 the opportunity to bike to by cars each year. — Bicycle a publication of the Clean Air work instead of driving, with 40 Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, Council). A short, four-mile round percent of those surveyed saying 2008 trip by bicycle keeps about 15 they would commute by bike if pounds of pollutants out of the If 5% of New Yorkers commuting safe facilities were available. air we breathe (WorldWatch by private car or taxi switched Institute). According to the Bureau of to biking to work, they could Transportation Statistics (BTS) save 150 million pounds of CO2 October 2000 Omnibus emissions per year, equivalent to Household Survey, some the amount reduced by planting 79.1 million (38 percent) of a forest 1.3 times the size of all Americans feel that the Manhattan. — Transportation availability of bikeways, walking Alternatives, 2008 paths, and sidewalks for getting to If the number of kids who walk work, shopping, and recreation is and bike to school returned to very important in choosing where 1969 levels, it would save 3.2 to live. metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. cons ervation 11 billion vehicle miles, 1.5 million tons of CO2 and 89,000 tons of O nline extra other pollutants annually. This is Learn more about the League of American Bicyclists, read their mission, the equivalent of keeping more and catch up on the latest research at www.bikeleague.org. than 250,000 cars off the road Find out how the Bikes Belong Coalition is helping more people have for a year. — Pedroso, M., “Safe the ability to choose biking over other forms of transportation at Routes to School: Steps to a www.bikesbelong.org. Greener Future,” 2008 A 5% increase in the walkability of a neighborhood is associated with a per capita 32.1% increase in active travel, 6.5% fewer miles driven, 5.6% fewer grams of NOx emitted, and 5.5% fewer grams of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted. —Frank, L., et al., “Many Pathways from Land Use to Health: Associations between Neighborhood Walkability and Active Transportation, Body Mass Index and Air Quality,” Journal of the American Planning Association, 2006 If all Americans between 10 and 64 were to bicycle instead of drive for 60 minutes a day, the resulting reduction in CO2 emissions would be 11% of 1990 net US emissions. — Higgins, P., and M. Higgins, Energy Policy, 2005 Photo by Elzora.com Photography If 20% of Madison, Wisconsin, commuters biked to work, it and walking from 12% to 15% would save 16,687 tons of carbon could lead to fuel savings of 3.8 dioxide emissions, a value of billion gallons a year and reduce $366,577. If 20% of Milwaukee greenhouse gas emissions by commuters biked to work, it 33 million tons per year. This is would save 40,718 tons of carbon equivalent to replacing 19 million dioxide emissions, a value of conventional cars with hybrids. — $821,282. If 20% of short car Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, 2008 trips were replaced by bicycle A NASA analysis found that trips in Milwaukee and Madison, motor vehicles are the greatest Wisconsin, it would prevent contributor to atmospheric 57,405 tons of carbon dioxide warming because they release from being emitted, a value of $1.2 pollutants and greenhouse million. — Grabow, M., et al., 2010 gases that promote warming, Increasing the mode share while emitting few aerosols that of all trips made by bicycling counteract it. — NASA, 2010 Photo by Elzora.com Photography it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 12 cycling safe

EARS: Make sure the straps of the helmet YOUR FAmily’S form a “V” under your ears when buckled. GUID E to biking The strap should be snug but comfortable. Encourage your kids to start cycling from MOUTH: Open your mouth as wide as you an early age and help instill habits that lead can. Do you feel the helmet hug your head? to an active and healthy life. The pediatric If not, tighten those straps and make sure experts at The Children’s Medical Center the buckle is flat against your skin. of Dayton have a few tips and suggestions Remember, bike helmets are for biking. to ensure your children’s safety while Kids should not wear bike helmets on they ride. the playground (where the straps can get caught on equipment and cause injury) HELMETS or for activities that require specialized Make sure the helmet fits—a helmet should helmets (such as skiing or football). sit on top of the head in a level position and should not rock forward and backward THE RIGHT BIKE or side to side. The helmet straps must The bike needs to be the right size for always be buckled, but not too tightly. the child. There should be about 1 inch of Practice with your kids so they know how clearance between the bike frame and the to put their helmet on correctly. child’s groin when the child’s feet are flat Dayton Children’s recommends the on the ground. Also, make sure the bike is “Eyes, Ears and Mouth” test: in good repair—secure reflectors, properly EYES: Position the helmet on your head. working brakes, smooth gear shifts, and Look up and you should see the bottom secure and properly inflated tires. rim of the helmet. The When in doubt, ask for help. The sales staff rim should be one to two at any bicycle shop or outdoor recreation finger-widths above the store should be able to provide expert education eyebrows. advice on fitting and adjusting bikes and helmets. metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. e ducation 13 SAFE CLOTHING What kids wear when riding a bike is also very important for safety. Fluorescent or bright-colored clothes will help kids be visible on the road. (Avoid dark clothes, especially during early dusk and twilight hours.) Lightweight clothes will help them avoid becoming overheated. Pant legs shouldn’t be too loose-fitting or flared. These can get caught up in the chain while riding. If your child wears a backpack while riding, make sure the straps are tied up and can’t get tangled in the spokes of the wheels. Choose shoes Photo by Kathleen Conklin that grip the bike’s pedals. Cleats, shoes with heels, or flip-flops can all HAND SIGNALS create problems while riding. Kids Be predictable when you ride by should never ride barefoot! using the correct hand signals. Use KNOW THE RULES your left arm to display these signals: OF THE ROAD Left turn: After checking behind Model and teach proper bicyclist you, hold your left arm straight out behavior. Ride on the right side of to the left and ride forward slowly. the road, with traffic, not against Stop: After checking behind you, it. Stay as far to the right as bend your elbow, pointing your possible, or in marked bike lanes. arm downward in an upside down Use appropriate hand signals and “L” shape and come to a stop. respect traffic signals, stopping at all stop signs and stop lights. Yield Right turn: After checking behind to pedestrians, and be especially you, bend your elbow, holding careful at intersections. Don’t ride your arm up in an “L” shape, and too close to parked cars—doors can ride forward slowly. Or, hold your right arm straight out from open suddenly. When riding in a Photo by Ed Yourdon group, always ride single file on the your side. street. When passing other bikers or people on the street, always pass to their left and call out “On your left!” so they’ll watch for you. Never share the seat with a friend or ride on the handlebars; only one person should be on a bike at a time. It’s easy to lose balance or suddenly swerve into traffic when riding with a passenger. Leave the ear buds at home—it’s essential to hear everyone else on the road at all times while biking. Finally, don’t be a daredevil: Never stand up while riding a bike or hitch a ride on a moving vehicle. Photo by Eyeliam it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 14 education

Photo by Elzora.com Photography

RANGERS AND MVPs: A CYCLIST’S BEST FRIENDS There are hundreds of miles of trainers can instruct our own officers park visitors regularly walk, bike, and bikeways sprawling across the region, in house and other police officers,” hike,” Zimmerman says. “It also allows and through the combined efforts of Zimmerman says. “There are also two us to patrol bike paths and parks like MetroParks Rangers cycling patrol and bike maintenance officers who have Island MetroPark more efficiently MetroParks Volunteer Patrol (MVP), been certified to work on the bikes of without disrupting the public’s use of the parks and bikeways remain safe. all the rangers in the mountain biking the area.” If a park patron is in an area Rangers receive special training program.” that is not easily accessed by vehicle, to work on the cycling patrol. “All MVPs also receive special training a bike officer could be the best bet for bike officers are trained through for their bike patrols. “MVPs responding to the call for assistance in the International Police Mountain communicate information about trail case of an emergency. Bikes also help Biking Association,” says Community conditions and foster positive public officers navigate around large-scale Resources Officer Lynne Zimmerman. interactions,” says MVP Volunteer events (such as Cityfolk or Dayton “This specialized training teaches Coordinator Rachel Brand. “If a tree Celtic festivals) more easily. “Another officers how to ride different terrain, root buckles a bikeway, they’ll let us great reason to use bike patrols is including down levees and stairs.” know. If a park patron flags them down to help save fuel in the patrol cars,” Officers are also instructed in bike for help, they’ll be there. Even if a Zimmerman says. “It contributes to maintenance, how to ride on the guest is just curious about the type of the officer’s health while reducing roadway using hand signals, and night bike our MVPs are riding, they’re here emissions and stretches our financial riding. “One of the most important to help and be extended stewards of resources. Bike patrols are a win-win- aspects of this training gets the officer our staff members.” Those who are win!” into shape so he or she is able to ride interested in becoming an MVP should There are at least two bike officers on a bike for an entire shift, with duty contact Brand at (937) 277-4374 or every shift, and at least one working gear on weighing over 30 pounds,” e-mail [email protected]. every day of the week. If you are Zimmerman says. Relying solely on cruiser patrols can in a MetroPark and are in need of There are 11 Five Rivers MetroParks be limiting, which is why rangers emergency assistance, call 9-1-1. If Rangers currently trained as bike use bikes as well as ATVs, boats and you are in a non-emergency, call the officers. This includes three officers horses to patrol the parks. “The bikes Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office who are certified trainers. “These give us access to many areas that at (937) 535-2580, and a Ranger will be dispatched to your location. metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. e ducation 15

PR- E RidE chECKLIST I nflate tires to the pressure that’s recommended on the sidewall of the tire. Oil the chain regularly and remove dirt. Bike Rodeo For Kids S aturday, June 18 from 9am to 1pm Adjust handlebars for height as Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark your child grows and tighten all Join Five Rivers MetroParks Rangers along with the MetroParks Volunteer bolts. Patrol for a day of fun with bicycle safety. Bring your bicycle to participate Check brakes for frayed cables in a special course in Wegerzyn’s parking lot. Before riding, students are and replace worn-out brake encouraged to come inside and receive a free bike helmet properly fitted to pads. each child (while quantities last). The bicycle course is designed to give all students the ability to learn the rules of the road in a safe environment. Keep the seat level and adjust For more information, call Officer Lynne Zimmerman weekdays at for height as needed. (937) 275-PARK ext. 1416. tips to encourage kids’ helmet use Establish the helmet habit early when Give your child a short course in your child get his or her first bike. If bike safety. Consider attending the they learn to wear helmets whenever upcoming Bike Rodeo program set for they ride, it will become a habit for a 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 18 at Wegerzyn lifetime. Gardens MetroPark. This program offers a helmet fitting session and Let them pick the helmet out. If they defensive driving techniques specially make the decision, they are more geared for children. likely to buy into the idea. Take your child to a bicycle race where Wear one yourself. Provide a role they will see really cool riders all using model for your kids; they learn best by helmets. observing you. Reward your kids for wearing helmets. Encourage their friends to wear Praise them; give them a special treat helmets. Peer pressure can be used in or privilege when they wear them a positive way if several families in the without having to be told to. neighborhood start making helmet use a regular habit at the same time. Don’t let them ride their bikes unless they wear their helmets. Be consistent. Talk to them about why you want them If you allow your children to ride to protect their heads. Let them know: occasionally without their helmets, they Their bikes are not toys, but their will not believe your messages about first vehicles. the importance of wearing them. You love them and value them and Plan bicycle outings together when all their intelligence. family members wear their helmets. They can hurt their heads Ride with a local bike club if you permanently or even die from a can, where all riders will probably be head injury. wearing helmets and many of them, like

Photo by Elzora.com Photography the racers, are accomplished riders. it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 16 h u b t r e x: m etroparks best bets for cycling day trips NEW RIDERS If you’ve never taken your bike outside your neighborhood or even to the end of your block, you can get started cycling on the 70-plus miles of paved trail managed by MetroParks staff. One great way to begin your bicycling hobby is by riding with a group. Bike for the Health of It meets every Saturday from April through October for a group ride lead by MetroParks Volunteer Patrol (MVP) riders. Flip to page 44 for this spring’s lineup, or visit metroparks.org/ BikeHealth for a complete schedule. Frequent riders are given prizes for incentives. Contact MetroParks Officer Lynn Zimmerman at (937) 275-7275 ext. 1416 for details about Bike for the Health of It awards and upcoming rides. B ESt bETS Do you own a bike but are a little intimidated Five Rivers MetroParks encourages Photo by Elzora.com Photography Elzora.com by Photo by the seemingly overwhelming mileage of everyone to engage in a healthy, active bikeways covering the region? Have you lifestyle—at your own pace. Whether you’re started riding the trails and are looking for starting out on a short ride, pushing your your next challenge but aren’t sure where to abilities on a longer ride, or challenging begin? Are you a veteran cyclist in search of yourself to a long trip, here are some a new high-mileage destination to conquer? “best bets” we’ve made into easy-to-use Your MetroParks have the answer: Hub Trex. Hub Trex. Hub Trex connect you with various SHORT RIDES destinations throughout the region via Bike Hub to the Boonshoft Museum of bikeway or cycling-friendly streets. Each Discovery (2.6 miles): Take the Great trip begins and ends at the new Bike Hub Miami River bikeway from the Hub and at RiverScape MetroPark. Here you will then take the Stillwater bikeway where find ample on-street parking, easy access it intersects at Triangle Park and follow it to bike lanes and paved paths, and visitor to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. amenities such as lockers, restrooms, and This ride will be great for young children, concessions. The Bike Hub is located toward and you can enjoy hands-on physics, the intersection of Patterson and Monument chemistry and biology experiments and streets near the covered pavilion where demonstrations at the Oscar Boonshoft visitors enjoyed ice skating all winter long. Science Central and the Do Lab, or You can pick up a Hub Trex trip sheet, view dynamic images of Earth and complete with a map and activities you space at Science On a Sphere, where can enjoy at each destination, from the stunning visuals meet a unique learning information kiosk outside or download it opportunity for explorers of all ages. Let

recreation from metroparks.org/cycling—your source your imagination run wild in Explorer’s for biking information and resources. Crossing, where children can become a metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. r ec eation 17 veterinarian, an attorney or an auto mechanic. Bike Hub to the Dayton Art Institute (3.2 miles): Follow the Great Miami River bikeway from the Hub and follow it around the loop to the Dayton Art Institute. While you’re visiting, view more than 1,000 works of art from around the world. Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is free. The museum’s interactive gallery for families, Experiencenter, features thematically based exhibitions plantings. You could even bring a that stimulate curiosity and lunch and picnic at a shelter or in a creativity. Stop by the museum’s grassy area. Consider riding to the Café Monet for lunch, 11:30 annual Paddle in the Park event AM - 2:30 PM Tuesday through taking place Saturday, June 4, at Saturday, and noon to 2:30 PM Eastwood Lake. Sunday. LONG RIDES INTERMEDIATE RIDES Bike Hub to Taylorsville MetroPark Bike Hub to Carillon Park (3.6 (10.7 miles): Take the Great Miami 2,000 acres of trails at Glen Helen miles): Ride the Great Miami River bikeway north from the Hub Nature Preserve, John Bryan River bikeway south from the to Taylorsville MetroPark. Explore State Park and Clifton Gorge. Hub to Carillon Historical Park. the site of Tadmor, a small village Experience the arts and culture Visit the John W. Berry Sr. that was Montgomery County’s on display throughout downtown Wright Brothers Aviation Center busiest crossroad in the 1800s. Yellow Springs. Visit the eclectic featuring a replica of the famous Today, remnants of this once- assortment of shops, cafés and Wright Cycle Company, dozens bustling community have been restaurants that make Yellow of original Wright artifacts, and identified as a significant site Springs unique and lively. the original 1905 Wright Flyer along the original route of the III. Stop at the Dayton Cyclery National Road. Visit the site of a These trails can connect you to many building and view over two dozen massive rock fall at Taylorsville locations throughout the county and vintage bicycles. Take a trip MetroPark. Walk up the stone the region. There are more than 270 back in time at Newcom Tavern, stairs and examine the small miles of connected trail throughout Dayton’s oldest building. Built in caverns that were created by southwest Ohio, and that number 1796, the two-story log structure water traveling through the stone continues to grow. Build yourself up has served as a home, a tavern, over extended time. Check out the to riding longer distances simply by a church, Dayton’s first store, newly revamped sustainable hiking riding short loops. Ride for a couple and Montgomery County’s first trails in the south end of the park miles and then turn around and go courtroom. before heading back to RiverScape back. Expand your mileage each time. The more you ride, the better Bike Hub to Eastwood MetroPark MetroPark. it will be for your body, helping you (3.6 miles): Start from the Great Bike Hub to Yellow Springs (26 feel great and live a long, Miami River bikeway at the miles): Take the Great Miami River healthy life. Hub, then follow the Mad River bikeway, then get on the Mad bikeway to Eastwood MetroPark. River Trail. Take the Creekside Trail Take advantage of over 3 miles located just outside of Eastwood O nline extra of wooded and open meadow MetroPark, then follow the Little trails for walking and hiking. Enjoy Visit metroparks.org/cycling Miami Scenic Trail north from the for cycling resources and to scenic views of the Mad River, intersection at Xenia Station and download your own Hub Trex. Eastwood Lake and native prairie finish in Yellow Springs. Hike the it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 18r rec eation Get out & ride METROPARKS OFFERS SPECIAL MOUNTAIN BIKING FACILITY Looking to push your cycling experience to the next level? Consider the challenge of riding not on paved paths but along rugged trail through beautiful forested areas. Mountain biking is becoming an increasingly popular activity across all ages and skill levels—and you can take advantage of this for free at MoMBA, MetroParks Mountain Biking Area. Mountain biking got its start in the mid 1970s, so it is still a fairly recent development, considering bikes have been around since the early 1800s! Mountain biking is generally done close-to-home opportunities to “Mountain biking grew from people off-road, on trails specifically ride after school, and work and on putting wider tires on typical bikes designed with the mountain biker in weekends. Five Rivers MetroParks and starting to ride in the woods, on mind. “Mountain biking isn’t as crazy Outdoor Recreation office runs dirt, and up and down mountains,” as some think it is; you can enjoy a programming at MoMBA, providing says Five Rivers MetroParks day in the woods, just like you would opportunities for residents to try Outdoor Recreation Coordinator enjoy a ride on the bikeways. The mountain biking for free, advance Dan Sahli. “Most children tend to scenery is just different,” Sahli says. riding skills, and enjoy friendly start riding on mountain bikes, with “Sure, you can get really good and competition in races. Turn to page wide, knobby tires, that sometimes go fast, jump off roots and rocks, and 44 and check out spring’s offerings have suspension. These types of start racing, but most people are for mountain biking programming, bikes are versatile training tools for just out to have fun and get some or visit metroparks.org/MoMBA. kids because they can ride them off- exercise.” “We have programs developed for road, on the bikeways, and around children as well as adults,” Sahli says. the neighborhood.” If you’re looking to get into mountain biking, the MoMBA facility is a great “If you got your child a mountain place to get your start. MoMBA is M oMba hours located up the road from Huffman MetroPark. There are over 8 miles April 1 - Oct. 31: 8 AM - 10 PM of sustainable single-track trails in a Nov. 1 - Feb. 1: 10 AM - 8 PM 111-acre area. “Some trails are short, Feb. 2 - March 31: 8 AM - 8 PM beginner-friendly trails, and some are more difficult, longer trails,” Sahli For up-to-date trail conditions says. “There really is something for and closures at MoMBA, please everyone.” MoMBA was designed to call (937) 277-4374. provide the area’s mountain bikers

metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. r ec eation 19

O nline extra Log on to metroparks.org/MoMBA to find an interactive map, learn more about mountain biking and get links to upcoming events taking place at MoMBA. Going for a ride in Ohio? Check out Joinomba.org if you’re planning a mountain biking excursion.

trails. There are over 800 feet of elevated bridge trail, armored water crossings, and a large 45-foot-long bridge over a 35-foot-deep ravine. MoMBA is the only MetroParks mountain biking facility; however, there are a few additional locations in this area for mountain bikers to test their skills. John Bryan State Park near Yellow Springs, Ohio, is a family-friendly ride, featuring mostly bike for Christmas and are looking easier, flat, fun trails. You could also for ways to get lots of use out of head south of Waynesville to Caesar that purchase, consider attending Creek State Park for another local a mountain biking program where mountain biking facility. “Consider your child will receive instruction joining a local group if you’re looking from recreation specialists that will to get started,” Sahli suggests. Cycling Club, or inquire about give them the confidence they need. “They’ve got great resources and groups in your area at any local bike There is a youth race series for are really plugged into the local shop. “Mountain biking is not as children and teens ages 8 to 16. Kids mountain biking scene. They can extreme as soft drink commercials can develop their skills and learn a help you plan trips, pick out gear, and depict it, so give it a try and meet fun outdoor activity they can enjoy offer other tips when you’re getting some new friends,” Sahli says. “Grab with no additional costs for started.” Check out the Miami Valley your bike, head out to MoMBA, and facility use.” Mountain Bike Association or Dayton get out and ride!” MoMBA also serves as a focal point for trail advocates and encourages independent recreation. “Mountain biking is an activity suitable for the whole family,” Sahli says. “It is not uncommon to find a family relaxing in the shade at the trailhead while the parents take turns heading out with their children.” Educational opportunities also exist through volunteer days. Trail maintenance is performed by volunteers who are trained with sustainable trail- building techniques and get hands- on experience working on MoMBA’s it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 20 bike it G E ET grE NER AND LEANER It’s easy to get in the know and join other 2children, teens and adults who bike WH EN you go by bikE Miami Valley. Bicycles and Dayton have a beautiful history together. From the Wright Brothers’ bicycle HOW WILL YOU RIDE? shop to the city’s recent achievement of If you haven’t ridden a bike since you sat on becoming a nationally recognized Bike- a banana seat or stuck a playing card in the Friendly Community, many of this region’s spokes, it’s not too late to start riding again, milestones have rolled in on two wheels. for recreation or commuting purposes. Keeping with this tradition, Dayton has Bicycles come in a variety of styles and sizes. joined the ranks of major cities across the Each type of bike has features that make country where cycling has grown beyond it ideal for a certain kind of ride. Before the scope of pure recreational purposes heading to the shop, consider how you will to a viable and eco-friendly form of use your bike. Are you mostly going to ride transportation. As concerns grow about it on paved trails? Long distances or short non-renewable resource consumption trips? Off-road adventures or relaxed-pace and the obesity epidemic, more and more jaunts? Will you need to carry cargo, and if people are choosing alternative forms of so, how much? Once you determine how transportation—specifically bicycling—as a you will use your bike, you can sort through way to reduce carbon emissions and lead the assortments and find one that best suits a healthier, active lifestyle. If you haven’t your needs. Check out the chart below for caught on to this rising trend, don’t worry. an overview of the different types of bikes available:

characteristics: intended use:

Agressive tires Mountain Suspension Off-road terrain Durable Skinny tires road Lightweight Paved roads / paths Fast Smooth ride hybrid Some front suspension Bikeways and some off-road Upright riding position Simple city Utilitarian Paved or gravel Versatile Smaller tires bmx Built for jumping Dirt, concrete, ramps Durable Smooth ride

get out & live! commuter Lots of gears Gravel and smooth surfaces Racks for cargo metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. spring 21

getting started $ budget $ $$ comfort $$ $$$ luxury $$$

Bike $120 - $275 $275 - $850 $850 and up Helmet $20 - $40 $40 - $100 $100 - $220 next buys Gloves $10 - $15 $15 - $35 $35 - $50 Glasses $10 - $20 $20 - $80 $80 and up just-in-case supplies Spare tube $3 - $5 $6 - $9 $9 and up Bike pump $12 - $20 $20 - $30 $30 and up Multi-tool, for small repairs $10 - $15 $15 - $25 $25 and up if you really like it Cycling shorts $35 - $50 $50 - $90 $90 - $130 Bike jersey $35 - $50 $50 - $75 $75 - $135

Another consideration is gear. A include some reflective material a rack to which you can secure helmet is essential; today’s market for visibility. items with a bungee cord. offers a variety of sizes, styles and Gloves can be a great feature to Battery-operated lights fixed to amenities for comfort. A properly protect your hands, especially if the front AND the back of your fitting helmet should sit straight you start riding longer distances. bike increase your visibility in across your forehead along your If you have the budget, invest in low-light hours. brow line. It should not tilt forward, gloves with gel pads to absorb impeding your vision, or backward, Having a water bottle can help road vibrations and protect you avoid dehydration, especially inadequately protecting your face. your wrists. Once you have your bike and your on hot days or when biking helmet, you’re all set to ride. Listed Sunglasses reduce glare and help long distances. below are some other gear items to keep dirt or other debris out of consider if you’re looking to step up your eyes. Look for a pair with your riding habits. Refer to the chart anti-fog features and no-slip for levels of financial investment. nose pads. Specialized clothing Acc essories Cycling jackets are lightweight and Locks keep your investment safe. provide protection from a light Choose a longer chain if you have chill or gentle rain. Choose one quick-release wheels and need to that is longer in back and has other secure both to a bike rack. special features like pockets for Repair kits can fit easily under storage and reflective tape your seat and will help you get for safety. back on your way quickly if you Straps for your pants will keep get a flat tire. them out of chain and spokes. If you’re going to transport cargo, These can be easy do-it-yourself you’ll need a bag (such as a projects, but make sure you messenger bag or backpack) or it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org 22 spring

shine. Participants will have the opportunity to learn basic bicycle maintenance tips and experience riding on the regional bikeways in a safe, group setting. To give yourself incentive, you can earn a T-shirt by reaching a goal of 125 miles. Families are welcome; parents/guardians must remain with their children during the program. Flip to page 44 for the spring schedule, or visit metroparks.org/BikeHealth for upcoming dates. To learn more about the series, contact Officer Zimmerman at (937) 275-PARK ext. 1416. Courteous Mass also focuses on street cycling safety. These rides, Photo by Agricole Day which take place on the first Friday of every month, are group rides the flow of traffic. Ride as far to the WHERE TO RIDE designed to demonstrate safe riding right as possible, or in a bike lane. Because bicycling has such positive for cyclists and offer a teaching Look for markings for bike lanes or impacts on air quality and personal opportunity for other vehicle drivers. shared lanes in downtown Dayton. health, city planners and developers Check out their Facebook page for Bike riders must follow all traffic are incorporating “complete streets” upcoming events at facebook.com/ laws, including stop signs, traffic into their designs, providing ample CourteousMassDayton. space for all vehicles, including bikes, lights, and turn lanes. Use hand as well as sidewalks for walking. signals when turning. A hand signal COMMUTING BY BIKE That said, it is important to note that can be as simple as pointing in the Using your bike for short trips bicycles ARE considered vehicles; direction you wish to turn. You can or even riding to work reduces therefore, one should NOT ride on also use standard signals: Extend carbon emissions, relieves highway the sidewalk. Ride on the street, with your left arm straight out to indicate congestion, and contributes to better a left turn. Extend your left arm bent personal health—not to mention up at the elbow to indicate a right riding is an enjoyable experience! turn, and bend your arm down to There are a few strategies you can signal you are stopping. use to encourage riding and keep up You can learn more about the rules your habit. of the road and take a course in Storing your bike in an easy-to- bike safety by signing up for Intro access place rather than up in your to Smart Cycling (April 28), Smart garage rafters or behind a wall of Cycling Basics (April 30), or Intro boxes and holiday decorations will to Bike Commuting (May 3). Turn encourage frequent use. Try a wall- to page 44 for the complete list of mount rack or a ceiling pulley rack. cycling activities. Both offer convenient out-of-the-way Another great way to start (or re- storage and are simple to use. Keep start) a cycling habit is to participate your cargo carrying utilities handy in a group ride. Bike for the Health in case you need to make a quick of It is a series of guided bicycle errand. Removing barriers to riding rides that take place Saturdays is an important aspect of promoting April through October, rain or healthy cycling habits. Photo by Jeremy Hughes metr oparks.org (937) 275 PARK (7275) it’s our nature. spring 23

O nline extra Learn more about the region’s extensive bikeway system as well we upcoming cycling activities when you visit M etroparks.org/Cycling. Mapping tools: www.miamivalleytrails.org www.mapmyride.com www.miamiconservancy.org/recreation/montgomery.asp www.mvrpc.org/tr/bikePed.php

BIKE TO WORK PANCAKE BREAKFAST Planning a trip by bike can be easy with digital tools, such as Google’s FRIDAY, MAY 20 bike option for its maps, or using an RIVERSCAPE METROPARK interactive map tool like what you’ll find onwww.miamivalleytrails.org 111 E. MONUMENT AVE., or www.mapmyride.com, which also DAYTON offers apps for smart phones. Leave your car in the garage Downtown Dayton bike commuters and support National Bike have a new amenity to make to Work Day. Ride in on cycling an easy and viable form your own or with a group to of transportation—the new Bike RiverScape MetroPark for Hub at RiverScape MetroPark. For a quarterly fee, members are a free pancake breakfast, given exclusive access to showers then head to work. Live and storage for their bikes and music, cycling-related gear, using an ID badge and exhibitors and a team other security features. Anyone challenge are also part interested in becoming a Bike Hub member should contact the of the fun. Get the full Outdoor Recreation Department to details at metroparks.org/ schedule a tour or learn more about biketowork or call the program. Call (937) 277-4374 (937) 277-4374. weekdays for further details. Photo by Rob Baxter it’s our nature. (937) 275 PARK (7275) metroparks.org G QuUidicke toRE FEEvReEnNtC AEc DtivityIRECTIONS TO YOUR METROPARKS

ADMINISTRATIVE office hours GERMANTOWN METROPARK RIVERSCAPE METROPARK 8 am–5 pm, Mon.–Fri. 7101 Conservancy Rd., Germantown. Follow St. Rt. 111 E. Monument Ave., Dayton. Take I-75 to First 1375 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Take I-75 725 west through Germantown. Turn right onto St. and head east. Turn left on Patterson Blvd. to Wagner Ford Rd./Siebenthaler Ave. Turn left Creek Rd. Take right on Conservancy Rd.; entrance and left on Monument Ave. (937) 274-0126 onto Siebenthaler Ave. off N. Dixie. The entrance is will be on left. To Nature Center (6910 Boomershine on the right past Ridge Ave. (937) 275-PARK (7275) Rd.): Pass Creek & Conservancy roads; turn right SUGARCREEK METROPARK onto Boomershine Rd., park entrance will be on 4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook. From I-675 take ADVENTURE CENTRAL AT right. (937) 855-7717 Wilmington Pike south. Street name changes to Wilmington-Dayton Rd. Continue until it makes WESLEYAN METROPARK N ature Center 2222 James H. McGee Blvd., Dayton. Take St. Rt. sharp turn to the right. Go straight; road turns Hours: Saturdays 1:00pm–4:00pm into Conference Rd. (937) 275-PARK (7275) 35 to the James H. McGee Blvd exit. Travel north Sundays 1:00pm–4:00pm. over 2 miles. Adventure Central is a barn-red The center will also be open for scheduled SUNRISE METROPARK brick building with a small parking lot in front. Call public programs and tours by appointment. to ask about overflow parking. (937) 278-2601 50 Edwin C. Moses Blvd., Dayton. Take Salem Ave. to Riverview Ave. and turn right. AULLWOOD GARDEN METROPARK Twin Valley Backpacking Trail Continue onto Edwin C. Moses Blvd. Sunrise is on 955 Aullwood Rd., Englewood. From I-70 take St. Rt. Overnight parking available by the east side of the road where the Great Miami 48 (Englewood) north to east on permit (937) 277-4374 at River and Wolf Creek meet. (937) 275-PARK (7275) National Rd. (U.S. 40). Cross Englewood Dam; just Boomershine trail head, 6206 Boomershine Rd. TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK after it, turn south onto Aullwood Rd. Drive past the HILLS & DALES METROPARK Aullwood Audubon Center and 2000 St. Rt. 40, Vandalia. From I-75 take U.S. 40 Exit 2655 Patterson Blvd., Kettering. From 741, turn left on (National Rd.) and head east. continue to the sign which says “Garden Parking” Dorothy Lane. Go thru S. Dixie Hwy. entrance on the right. (937) 275-PARK (7275) Continue on 40 where it heads south onto intersection. A few streets east of there is Hilton Dr. Brown School Rd. Then go on Brown School Rd. CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK Turn left. Go 5 blocks north through past U.S. 40 to entrances, or follow U.S. 40 east 7800 E. Shull Rd. From I-70 take St. Rt. residential area. Turn right onto Stockton Ave. then to other entrances. (937) 275-PARK (7275) 201 Exit (Brandt Pike). Turn north on 201 right onto S. Patterson Blvd. Twin Oak Shelter: 1/4 and drive one mile to East Shull Rd. Turn mile past Stockton on Patterson Blvd.; north of TWIN CREEK METROPARK right at park entrance. (937) 278-2609 Patterson Monument. (937) 275-PARK (7275) 9688 Eby Rd., Germantown. Follow St. Rt. 725 west through Miamisburg. Take St. Rt. 4 south through Carriage Hill Riding Center HUFFMAN METROPARK Germantown; turn left on Eby Rd. Park entrance is The Riding Center is on Shull Rd. 4439 Lower Valley Pike, Fairborn. From St. Rt. 4 Exit on the left. (937) 275-PARK (7275) past the farm. (937) 274-3120 at Huffman Dam Rd. Continue onto Lower Valley Twin Valley Backpacking Trail Pike. Entrances are on the right. Overnight parking available by COX ARBORETUM METROPARK (937) 275-PARK (7275) 6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton. From I-75 take St. permit (937) 277-4374 at the High Rt. 725 (Miamisburg-Centerville Rd.) east to St. Rt. A MoMB -MetroPark Mountain Bike Area View trail head, 9688 Eby Rd. 741 (Springboro Pike). Turn north on St. Rt. 741. Cox 4485 Union Road, Fairborn. On Lower Arboretum is on the left approx. 2 miles. Valley Pike pass the main Huffman WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK (937) 434-9005 parking lot. Come to very sharp left-hand 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton. Take I-75 to Wagner Ford Rd./Siebenthaler Ave. Turn left onto Butterfly House turn, pass under St. Rt. 4. Come straight through Union and Baker Rd. intersection. Siebenthaler Ave. off N. Dixie. Pass Risdge Ave. and Open late June through Labor Day, the First left is MoMBA parking lot. (Union Rd. the administrative offices. Turn right into drive at Butterfly House is located on the west side becomes Union Schoolhouse Rd. in bottom of the hill before bridge. Wegerzyn Center is of the park behind the Crab Apple Allée. Montgomery County west of the located in the center of the Cultural Arts Complex; DEEDS POINT METROPARK MoMBA parking lot.) gardens are to the right of the parking lot. 510 Webster St., Dayton. From I-75 take Stanley Ave. (937) 277-6545 ISLAND METROPARK Children’s Discovery Garden west until it dead ends at Helena St. and turn right. 101 E. Helena St., Dayton. From I-75 take the Stanley Directly to the right of the parking At North Bend Blvd. turn left; pass the Kettering Ave. west until it dead ends at Helena St. Turn right lot behind the walled area. Field diamonds until rd. forks to the right. Area to and continue to Island MetroPark, which is on right the right is Deeds Point. (937) 275-PARK (7275) side of the street near Riverside Dr. Use overflow W ESLEYan mETROPARK EASTWOOD METROPARK parking lot east of park. (937) 275-PARK (7275) 1441 Wesleyan Rd., Dayton. From St. Rt. 35 to 1385 Harshman Rd., Dayton. Take Route 4 to the Gettysburg Exit; turn right. Go 3 miles, turn right on PNC 2nd STREET MARKET Cornell Dr. Go 2 blocks to Wesleyan Rd., turn right. Harshman Rd. Exit and head south on Harshman. 600 E. 2nd St., Dayton. Take Keowee St. to Park is on the right side of the street. (937) 278-2601 The first entrance to the right is to the lake; the Third St. and turn left. Turn right at Webster second right is to the park. (937) 275-PARK (7275) St., then right at 2nd St. (937) 228-2088 E NGLEWood mETROPARK POSSUM CREEK METROPARK 4361 National Rd., Butler Twp. From I-70 take St. Rt. 4790 Frytown Road, Dayton. From 48 (Englewood) north to east on National Rd. (U.S. Gettysburg Ave.: Turn west onto Germantown 40). Cross Englewood Dam; the main entrance is St. Route 4. Go about 1.5 miles to Frytown just after it, east of the dam. (937) 275-PARK (7275) Rd. and turn left. Head to main entrance or Englewood MetroPark Disc Golf Course to reservable shelter area. (937) 276-7062 Located at the south end of East Park next to the lake.

24 metr oparks.org Guide to Event Activity Detours& Closings getp u -to-date alerts at www.metroparks.org /detours

Trail Conditions WATER SHUT-OFF For up-to-date conditions and Attention: Some water features in closures at the following trails, call the MetroParks may be shut off the number listed: during the winter months to prevent MetroParks Mountain Biking Area pipe bursts. This includes all water (MoMBA) Trail Conditions: playgrounds, some restrooms (pit (937) 277-4374 toilets will still be available), and some Twin Valley Backpacking Trail drinking fountains. The water will be turned back on after the last frost (TVT) Conditions: (937) 274-3163 of the season and the ground thaws bik eway substantially. Call the park at (937) 275-PARK weekdays if this will Closures affect your trip, such as a shelter Montgomery County Engineer’s reservation or camping experience. Office will be working on a project on the Third Street Bridge this SUSTAINABLE spring. The Great Miami River TRAILS COMING Bikeway goes below the bridge on both sides of the river, and officials TO SUGARCREEK will be making repairs to the bridge METROPARK decking March through July. Workers Learn more about the sustainable will hang netting below the bridge to trails project and how you can help at catch any debris from the project, an open house meeting from 6:30-7:30 and it is their goal to keep the PM April 14, 2011, at the Sugarcreek bikeway open during construction. MetroPark maintenance building, located at 7636 Wilmington-Dayton SUB FAcility Road. After crossing the Sugar Creek, HOURS it will be the first building on the left. Call Sugarcreek Park Manager Ed cycling mvps keep our CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY Gerdeman at (937) 433-0004 for GARDEN SPRING HOURS more information. recreation trails safe March: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Other detours may be in effect or May: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. the schedule of a project may have GERMANTOWN NATURE changed by the time ParkWays has been published. For more information, visit CENTER HOURS the Alerts, Closures and Construction The Germantown MetroPark Nature page at www.metroparks.org. Center hosts open hours from 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, or for programs or by appointment. Call (937) 855-7717 for more information.

metr oparks.org 25 Fveiversi r MetroParks is pleased to present Yo ur guide to spring activities Finding your interests is quick and easy. You can find them in this ParkWays by ACTIVITY or by DATE. Follow the simple instructions below and start filling up your calendar with fun, educational and physical activities for all ages. By Activity Interested in art, cooking, gardening or hiking? Looking to volunteer or maybe just want to find all the seasonal happening in the MetroParks? Check out the activity section. Each program lists the date, name, time, place and description. For more details on programs, check www.metroparks.org. You can register online or by phone.

By Date You can also search events and programs by date. This is a chronological listing of every activity at every park. Pick a date, find an activity that interests you and go to the page listed to find out more information. For more details on programs, check www.metroparks.org. You can register online or by phone.

O NLIne You can also search for events online at www.metroparks.org. Activities by park, interest group or topic can be found under the Get Outside tab. To search by Course Code, click on Things to See and Do under the Get Outside tab, then click on the Course Code Search button on the right side of the page. Metroparks.org helps you get connected to park information, program guides, videos, nature play games and online registration. If you’re a “go on your own” park user, the website is a great place to find maps, park features, trail information and more.

NOT: E Some programs require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation. Those with reservations will be contacted if this occurs. Some outdoor events are weather permitting. The website contains up-to-date information on cancellations. FEES: Fees are required at the time of registration and are non-refundable.

passport to nature! PTN Your child can become an official MetroParks Nature Traveler by participating in eight Passport to Nature programs. Nature Travelers will receive a special backpack. Look for the symbol showing designated passport programs.

How to contact a Ranger in a MetroPark: Emergency contact: 9-1-1 Non-emergency contact: (937) 535-2580 Inform the Montgomery County Sheriff Office dispatcher you are in a MetroParks facility. A MetroParks Law Enforcement Ranger will be notified and respond to the situation as soon as possible. spring flowers wegerzyn at gardens metropark

26 metr oparks.org Gudeo i t Event by date stay connected

FACEBOOK TWITTER METROPARKS.ORG Five Rivers MetroParks recently Follow Five Rivers MetroParks The programs and stories you’re switched to a “fan” page. If you on Twitter! Check out reading in this issue of ParkWays haven’t already done so, visit www.twitter.com/metroparkstweet can be found online. Visit www.facebook.com/ to receive updates about activities metroparks.org and click fiveriversmetroparks and click the going on in your parks. Why not start on the picture of the ParkWays “like” button to keep up to date your own Tweet-up for a hike in cover to download the latest issue, with MetroParks programs and a park? or visit metroparks.org/ events, as well as connect with other parkways to download the PDF or MetroParks users. subscribe to ParkWays if you’re not a Montgomery County resident. Search for programs by date or by activity — click on “Things to See and Do” from the “Get Outside” fly-out menu and start planning your next outdoor adventure!

metroparks.org 27 Gudeo i t Event by date

28 metroparks.org Guide to e vent by date Guide to e vent by date

thu, mar 10, 2011 thu, mar 17, 2011 eVeNts BY Date, tIme 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Sugarcreek Me- 11:30 aM Lunch and Learn: Pruning basics, tue, mar 1, 2011 troPark (see page 39) Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 34) 9:00 aM discovery Stroll, Taylorsville Me- 11:30 aM Fresh Summer Wrap demo, PNC 2nd troPark (see page 38) Street Market (see page 37) sat, mar 19, 2011 6:00 PM intro to Land navigation, Wegerzyn 8:30 aM Family Farm Chores, Possum Creek Wed, mar 2, 2011 Gardens MetroPark (see page 47) MetroPark (see page 33) 7:00 PM environmental Film Series: Short 8:30 aM Morning Chores on the Farm, Car- takes, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 36) Fri, mar 11, 2011 riage Hill MetroPark (see page 33) 12:30 PM Project Feeder Watch, Germantown 10:00 aM in the Garden Series: Cool Weath- thu, mar 3, 2011 MetroPark (see page 39) er Crops & trellises, Wegerzyn Gardens 10:00 aM backpacking babies: nature’s tex- 6:30 PM Woodcock dance, Twin Creek Me- MetroPark (see page 34) tures, Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 40) 10:00 aM take Charge of your Camera 7:00 PM Star-late Skates, RiverScape Me- Series: i Can See Clearly now, Wegerzyn Fri, mar 4, 2011 troPark (see page 48) Gardens MetroPark (see page 43) 10:00 aM tike Hike: animal Homes, Engle- 10:30 aM early Springtime Walk, Englewood wood MetroPark (see page 38) sat, mar 12, 2011 MetroPark (see page 40) 7:00 PM dJ Skates: awesome eighties, River- 8:00 aM Waterfowl Field trip, Possum Creek 12:00 PM become a Green Garden volunteer, Scape MetroPark (see page 48) MetroPark (see page 40) 9:00 aM St. Patrick’s day at the Market, PNC Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 34) sat, mar 5, 2011 2nd Street Market (see page 48) 1:00 PM eureka Lab! experiment with your veg- 7:30 aM Miami valley Gardening Conference: 10:00 aM What’s Growing? Possum Creek gies, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 40) the Future of Gardening, Off Site - Sinclair MetroPark (see page 33) 1:00 PM From tassel to table, Possum Creek Community College (page 33) 10:00 aM take Charge of your Camera: i’m MetroPark (see page 33) 10:00 aM draft Horse driving School, Car- beginning to See the Light, Wegerzyn Gardens 1:00 PM Land navigation basics, Twin Creek riage Hill MetroPark (see page 49) MetroPark (see page 43) MetroPark (see page 47) 10:00 aM biblical Herbs, Carriage Hill Me- 10:30 aM Project Feeder Watch, Germantown 1:30 PM Waterfowl at Huffman, Huffman troPark (see page 36) MetroPark (see page 39) MetroPark (see page 40) 10:00 aM Who and What Makes Maple Syrup, 12:00 PM volunteer: MoMba trail Work days, 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! German- Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 39) Huffman MetroPark (see page 46) town MetroPark (see page 46) 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Possum 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Englewood 6:30 PM beaver Search, Eastwood MetroPark Creek MetroPark (see page 46) MetroPark (see page 46) (see page 40) 2:30 PM Maple Sugaring in your own back- 2:30 PM Signs of Spring, Germantown Me- yard, Germantown MetroPark (see page 39) troPark (see page 40) sun, mar 20, 2011 7:00 PM Star-late Skates, RiverScape Me- 6:30 PM Woodcock dance, Carriage Hill Me- 12:00 PM Corn Shelling & Grinding, Carriage troPark (see page 48) troPark (see page 40) Hill MetroPark (see page 36) 7:00 PM Star-late Skates, RiverScape Me- 1:30 PM Sugarcreek Hike with the Metro sun, mar 6, 2011 troPark (see page 48) dayton Hikers, Sugarcreek MetroPark (see 12:00 PM discovery Stroll, Germantown Me- page 46) troPark (see page 38) mon, mar 14, 2011 1:30 PM Learning from the Landscape: early 2:00 PM Fundamentals of Skating, River- 9:30 aM Children’s tour Guide Workshop Color and interest, Cox Arboretum Me- Scape MetroPark (see page 48) Series: Welcome Spring! Cox Arboretum Me- troPark (see page 34) 1:30 PM Germantown Hike with the Metro troPark (see page 40) dayton Hikers, Germantown MetroPark (see 10:00 aM tike Hike: Hibernating insects, mon, mar 21, 2011 page 46) Taylorsville MetroPark (see page 38) 9:30 aM Children’s tour Guide Workshop Series: bodacious botany, Cox Arboretum mon, mar 7, 2011 tue, mar 15, 2011 MetroPark (see page 40) 3:00 PM Monday Horseback Riding Lessons 9:00 aM discovery Stroll, Carriage Hill Me- (a), Carriage Hill MetroPark (see page 46) troPark (see page 38) tue, mar 22, 2011 10:00 aM Parent and Preschooler: do you tue, mar 8, 2011 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Eastwood Me- Live in a tree? Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Englewood Me- troPark (see page 39) page 40) troPark (see page 39) 9:00 aM Stroller Strut: Warm Winds blow, 10:00 aM tike Hike: Squirrel Search, Sugar- 10:00 aM advanced butterfly Class: Where Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 40) creek MetroPark (see page 38) do butterflies Come From? Cox Arboretum 6:00 PM intro to backpacking for Women, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 41) MetroPark (see page 39) Wed, mar 16, 2011 1:00 PM Little apple Goat, Possum Creek Germantown 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Wed, mar 23, 2011 MetroPark (see page 33) MetroPark (see page 39) 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- 4:00 PM try backpacking! Hills & Dales Me- 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- troPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 43) troPark (see page 38) 10:00 aM tike Hike: Moss, nature’s Carpet, 6:00 PM intro to backpacking for Women, Wed, mar 9, 2011 Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 43) Hills & Dales MetroPark (see page 38) 6:30 PM Compost Kitchen: building better 6:30 PM Compost Kitchen: backyard Compost- 6:30 PM Compost Kitchen: all about Worms, Soil, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 33) ing, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 33) Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 34)

42 metroparks.orgmetroparks.org 329 Guide to e vent by date thu, mar 24, 2011 bikeway (W), Recreational Trails (see page 44) sat, apr 9, 2011 6:30 PM intro to backpacking, Cox Arbore- 10:00 aM Herb Cheeses, Carriage Hill Me- 8:30 aM Family Farm Chores, Possum Creek tum MetroPark (see page 43) troPark (see page 37) MetroPark (see page 33) 7:00 PM Café Sci: native Wildflowers in the 10:00 aM take Charge of your Camera: 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Wolf Creek Landscape, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see Come See about Me, Wegerzyn Gardens Me- bikeway (W), Recreational Trails (see page 44) page 41) troPark (see page 43) 9:00 aM volunteer: backpacking trail Work 10:00 aM Weekend Pony Rides, Carriage Hill days, Germantown MetroPark (see page 44) Fri, mar 25, 2011 MetroPark (see page 46) 9:30 aM Project Wild Workshop, Possum 12:30 PM Project Feeder Watch, German- 12:00 PM backpacking basics, Germantown Creek MetroPark (see page 41) town MetroPark (see page 39) MetroPark (see page 43) 10:00 aM Good Gardening Series: Part 2 7:30 PM Raccoon Search, Hills & Dales Me- 1:00 PM Family nature Walk, Possum Creek building a Rain barrel, Wegerzyn Gardens troPark (see page 41) MetroPark (see page 41) MetroPark (see page 35) 2:00 PM Welcome to Wildflowers, German- 12:00 PM volunteer: MoMba trail Work days, sat, mar 26, 2011 town MetroPark (see page 41) Huffman MetroPark (see page 46) 10:00 aM birds of Prey, PNC 2nd Street Mar- 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Sugarcreek 1:00 PM Woodpecker Walk, Hills & Dales Me- ket (see page 41) MetroPark (see page 46) troPark (see page 41) 10:00 aM take Charge of your Camera Se- 6:00 PM Mammal Study, Carriage Hill Me- 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Taylorsville ries: My Corner of the Sky, Wegerzyn Gardens troPark (see page 41) MetroPark (see page 46) MetroPark (see page 43) 8:00 PM tike Hike: nocturnal adventure, Hills 10:00 aM Good Gardening Series: Part 1 the sun, apr 3, 2011 & Dales MetroPark (see page 39) Joy of dirt, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see 12:00 PM apprentice day, Carriage Hill Me- page 34) troPark (see page 36) sun, apr 10, 2011 10:00 aM tree trivia, Possum Creek Me- 1:30 PM twin Creek Hike with the Metro 11:00 aM discovery Stroll, Germantown Me- troPark (see page 41) dayton Hikers, Twin Creek MetroPark (see troPark (see page 38) 10:30 aM Project Feeder Watch, Germantown page 46) MetroPark (see page 39) mon, apr 11, 2011 12:00 PM Feed Milling demonstration, Possum mon, apr 4, 2011 11:00 aM discovery bike Ride, Island Me- Creek MetroPark (see page 33) 8:00 aM volunteer: Stick Sculpture volunteer troPark (see page 38) 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Wegerzyn with Patrick dougherty, Wegerzyn Gardens tue, apr 12, 2011 Gardens MetroPark (see page 46) MetroPark (see page 49) 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Englewood Me- Wesleyan 10:00 aM tike Hike: backyard expedition, 2:00 PM Family nature Games, troPark (see page 39) MetroPark (see page 41) Hills & Dales MetroPark (see page 38) 10:00 aM tike Hike: backyard expedition, sun, mar 27, 2011 tue, apr 5, 2011 Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 39) 11:00 aM discovery Stroll, Twin Creek Me- 9:00 aM discovery Stroll, Taylorsville Me- 1:00 PM Playful Piggies, Possum Creek Me- troPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 33) 6:00 PM advanced Gardening with Janet 4:00 PM youth Garden Club for beginners, mon, mar 28, 2011 Macunovich, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 35) 9:30 aM Children’s tour Guide Series: Wild- page 35) flowers in the Wild, Cox Arboretum MetroPark Wed, apr 13, 2011 (see page 40) Wed, apr 6, 2011 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- 6:00 PM Fly Fishing for bass and bluegill, Five 9:00 aM advanced Gardening with Janet troPark (see page 38) Rivers St. Clair Building (see page 45) Macunovich, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see 5:30 PM Where does all the Rain Go? Off Site page 35) (see page 35) tue, mar 29, 2011 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- 11:30 aM Lunch and Learn: emerald ash borer troPark (see page 38) thu, apr 14, 2011 in ohio, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 10:00 aM tike Hike: backyard expedition, 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Sugarcreek Me- 34) Taylorsville MetroPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 39) 7:00 PM environmental Film Series: deep 11:30 aM Go Green! PNC 2nd Street Market Wed, mar 30, 2011 down, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 36) (see page 36) 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- 4:00 PM advanced youth Garden Club, We- troPark (see page 38) thu, apr 7, 2011 gerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 35) 10:00 aM backpacking babies: Signs of thu, mar 31, 2011 Spring, Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 38) Fri, apr 15, 2011 10:00 aM tike Hike: Woodland adventure, 10:00 aM Parent and Preschooler: Sensing a 8:00 aM twin valley trail backpacking trip, Germantown MetroPark (see page 38) Change, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page Germantown MetroPark (see page 44) 11:00 aM Maple Syrup Maestro, PNC 2nd 40) 11:00 aM tree Seedling Giveaway, PNC 2nd Street Market (see page 37) 4:00 PM try Fly Fishing! Carriage Hill Me- Street Market (see page 49) troPark (see page 45) 11:30 aM Lunch and Learn: attracting birds to sat, apr 2, 2011 the Gardens, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see 9:00 aM Make a difference...Save a Life 5K Fri, apr 8, 2011 page 34) Race/Walk, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see 8:00 PM nocturnal amphibian Search, Sugar- 8:00 PM owl Prowl, Possum Creek MetroPark page 48) creek MetroPark (see page 41) (see page 42) 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Wolf Creek

230 metroparks.orgmetroparks.org Guide to e vent by date sat, apr 16, 2011 11:30 aM Stroller Strut: Wonderfully Wild Flow- 2:00 PM Wildflower Walk, Sugarcreek Me- 8:00 aM tree Seedling Giveaway, PNC 2nd ers, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 41) troPark (see page 42) Street Market (see page 49) 11:30 aM Lunch and Learn: native Wildflow- 8:30 aM Morning Chores on the Farm, Car- ers, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 34) mon, may 2, 2011 riage Hill MetroPark (see page 33) 6:00 PM Horse Camp for adults, Carriage 9:00 aM adopt-a-Park, Eastwood MetroPark Wed, apr 27, 2011 Hill MetroPark (see page 46) (see page 49) 10:00 aM advanced butterfly Class: butterfly tue, may 3, 2011 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Creekside id, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 39) 9:00 aM discovery Stroll, Taylorsville Me- bikeway, Eastwood MetroPark (see page 44) 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- troPark (see page 38) 9:00 aM Wegerzyn Gardens Walkfest, We- troPark (see page 38) 10:00 aM advanced butterfly Class: Garden- gerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 48) thu, apr 28, 2011 ing for butterflies, Cox Arboretum MetroPark 10:00 aM From Sheep to Shawls, Carriage 6:00 PM intro to Smart Cycling, Five Rivers (see page 39) Hill MetroPark (see page 36) St. Clair Building (see page 44) 6:00 PM intro to bike Commuting, Five Riv- 10:00 aM Good Gardening Series: Part 3 7:00 PM Cafe Sci, Cox Arboretum MetroPark ers St. Clair Building (see page 45) Welcome Spring: Weeds and Water, Weger- (see page 41) zyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 35) Wed, may 4, 2011 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Twin Creek Fri, apr 29, 2011 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- MetroPark (see page 46) 8:00 aM arbor day, Cox Arboretum Me- troPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 42) 10:00 aM tike Hike: buds and bugs, Hills & sun, apr 17, 2011 11:30 aM Kids’ Crepe-Making demo, PNC Dales MetroPark (see page 39) 10:00 aM Wildflower Walk, Possum Creek 2nd Street Market (see page 37) MetroPark (see page 42) 7:30 PM amphibian appreciation, Taylorsville thu, may 5, 2011 1:30 PM Learning from the Landscape: MetroPark (see page 42) 10:00 aM backpacking babies: Carpet of Woodland Wildflowers, Cox Arboretum Me- 12:00 PM Red River Gorge backpacking trip Color, Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 38) troPark (see page 34) for Women, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see 10:00 aM tike Hike: beaver Fever, Eastwood MetroPark (see page 39) tue, apr 19, 2011 page 44) 11:30 aM Kentucky derby dish, PNC 2nd 9:00 aM discovery Stroll, Carriage Hill Me- 10:00 aM tike Hike: backyard expedition, Street Market (see page 37) troPark (see page 38) Germantown MetroPark (see page 39) 4:00 PM try Fly Fishing! Cox Arboretum Wed, apr 20, 2011 sat, apr 30, 2011 MetroPark (see page 45) 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Germantown 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Great Fri, may 6, 2011 MetroPark (see page 39) Miami River bikeway, Recreational Trails (see 11:30 aM Lunch and Learn: Contain yourself, 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- page 44) Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 34) troPark (see page 38) 9:00 aM dayton Peace accords 5K Walk Run, 8:00 PM animals at night, Taylorsville Me- 11:00 aM tree blossom tea Party, Wegerzyn Recreational Trails (see page 48) troPark (see page 42) Gardens MetroPark (see page 35) 9:00 aM Smart Cycling basics, Five Rivers St. Clair Building (see page 45) 10:00 PM night Fishing at eastwood Lake, thu, apr 21, 2011 9:00 aM Hooked on Fishing, not on drugs: Eastwood MetroPark (see page 45) 10:00 aM tike Hike: backyard expedition, introduction to Fishing, Possum Creek Me- 10:00 PM night Fishing at Possum Creek Me- Englewood MetroPark (see page 39) troPark (see page 45) troPark, Possum Creek MetroPark (see page 45) 10:00 aM Wildflower and native Plant Sale, sat, may 7, 2011 Fri, apr 22, 2011 Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 49) 8:00 aM derby day dash, RiverScape Me- 6:00 PM discovery bike Ride, Bikeways (see 10:00 aM MayFair 2011 Plant Sale, Wegerzyn troPark (see page 49) page 44) Gardens MetroPark (see page 49) 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Stillwater 10:00 aM aullwood Photography Session, sat, apr 23, 2011 River bikeway (n), Englewood MetroPark (see Aullwood Garden MetroPark (see page 43) 8:00 aM beginning birding Workshop, Ger- page 44) 10:00 aM Wildflower Walk, Englewood Me- mantown MetroPark (see page 42) 9:00 aM Hooked on Fishing, not on drugs: troPark (see page 42) 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Mad River Casting, Possum Creek MetroPark (see page 45) 11:00 aM discovery Stroll, Twin Creek Me- bikeway, Eastwood MetroPark (see page 44) 9:00 aM birding Workshop: Warblers, Ger- troPark (see page 38) 10:00 aM Part 4 Planning the Garden, We- mantown MetroPark (see page 42) 1:00 PM Family Scavenger Hunt, Eastwood gerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 35) 10:00 aM Catnip toys, Carriage Hill Me- MetroPark (see page 42) 1:00 PM bird Song Study, Germantown Me- troPark (see page 36) 2:00 PM drawing at aullwood With david troPark (see page 42) 10:00 aM Kids’ Fishing derby, Possum Creek Leach, Aullwood Garden MetroPark (see page 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Englewood MetroPark (see page 48) 37) MetroPark (see page 46) 10:00 aM beginning birders, Englewood 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Carriage MetroPark (see page 42) Hill MetroPark (see page 46) tue, apr 26, 2011 11:00 aM Make your own Crepe, PNC 2nd 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Eastwood Me- sun, may 1, 2011 Street Market (see page 37) troPark (see page 39) 12:00 PM MayFair 2011 Plant Sale, Wegerzyn 1:00 PM explore insects, Huffman MetroPark 9:00 aM Stroller Strut: Wonderfully Wild Flow- Gardens MetroPark (see page 49) (see page 42) ers, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 41)

metroparks.org metroparks.org 31 Guide to e vent by date

1:00 PM Family nature Games, Possum Creek 12:00 PM Corn Planting on the Farm, Car- mon, may 23, 2011 MetroPark (see page 41) riage Hill MetroPark (see page 36) 10:00 aM tike Hike: Salamander Search, 1:00 PM nature’s incredible edibles, Possum 1:30 PM Hills & dales Hike with the Metro Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 39) Creek MetroPark (see page 35) dayton Hikers, Hills & Dales MetroPark (see 5:30 PM youth Mtb Race Series, Huffman 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Cox Arbo- page 46) MetroPark (see page 47) retum MetroPark (see page 46) 1:30 PM Learning from the Landscape: Renovate & Rejuvenate, Cox Arboretum tue, may 24, 2011 sun, may 8, 2011 MetroPark (see page 34) 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Eastwood Me- 11:00 aM discovery Stroll, Germantown Me- troPark (see page 39) troPark (see page 38) mon, may 16, 2011 9:00 aM Stroller Strut: Garden explorer, 6:00 PM Learn to Row with GRda, Island Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 40) mon, may 9, 2011 MetroPark (see page 48) 6:00 PM Mulching your Garden, Off Site (see 6:00 PM intro to Kayaking, Wegerzyn Gar- page 34) dens MetroPark (see page 47) tue, may 17, 2011 6:00 PM intro to Kayaking, Five Rivers St. 9:00 aM discovery Stroll, Carriage Hill Me- Clair Building (see page 47) tue, may 10, 2011 troPark (see page 38) 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Englewood 10:00 aM tike Hike: Little Sprouts, German- Wed, may 25, 2011 MetroPark (see page 39) town MetroPark (see page 39) 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- 10:00 aM Parent and Preschooler: Step into Sci- 6:00 PM Kayak basics, Eastwood MetroPark troPark (see page 38) ence, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 40) (see page 47) 6:00 PM Green Garden Q&a, Wegerzyn 1:00 PM How now brown Cow? Possum Gardens MetroPark (see page 36) Creek MetroPark (see page 33) Wed, may 18, 2011 7:00 PM volunteer: Paddle in the Park ori- 6:00 PM volunteer: bike to Work day orienta- 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Germantown entation, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see tion, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 45) MetroPark (see page 39) page 47) 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- Wed, may 11, 2011 troPark (see page 38) thu, may 26, 2011 10:00 aM discovery Stroll, Hills & Dales Me- 10:00 aM Golden Gardeners, Wegerzyn Gar- 7:00 PM Cafe Sci, Cox Arboretum MetroPark troPark (see page 38) dens MetroPark (see page 35) (see page 41) 11:30 aM Lunch and Learn: Water-Wise Gar- 6:00 PM volunteer: MoMba trail Work days, thu, may 12, 2011 dens, Cox Arboretum MetroPark (see page 34) Huffman MetroPark (see page 46) 9:00 aM adult nature Walk, Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 39) thu, may 19, 2011 sat, may 28, 2011 4:00 PM try Kayaking! Eastwood MetroPark 11:30 aM naturally Gluten Free, PNC 2nd 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Great (see page 47) Street Market (see page 37) Miami bikeway (C), Wegerzyn Gardens Me- troPark (see page 44) Fri, may 13, 2011 Fri, may 20, 2011 9:00 aM Hooked on Fishing, not on drugs: 5:00 PM urban nights, RiverScape MetroPark 6:00 aM national bike to Work day Pancake Graduation, Possum Creek MetroPark (see (see page 48) breakfast, RiverScape MetroPark (see page page 45) 7:00 PM Frog Chorus, Carriage Hill MetroPark 45) 1:00 PM Family nature Walk, Englewood (see page 42) 10:00 aM tike Hike: Solar Power, Englewood MetroPark (see page 41) MetroPark (see page 39) sat, may 14, 2011 1:00 PM Wildflowers and Woodpeckers, Sugarcreek MetroPark (see page 43) 6:00 aM Spring birding Field trip to Magee sat, may 21, 2011 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Eastwood Marsh, Possum Creek MetroPark (see page 42) 8:00 aM tab-a-PuLL-ooZa, PNC 2nd MetroPark (see page 46) 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Wolf Creek Street Market (see page 48) 7:30 PM Free Summer Concert Series, River- bikeway (W), Recreational Trails (see page 44) 8:30 aM Family Farm Chores, Possum Creek Scape MetroPark (see page 48) 9:00 aM Hooked on Fishing, not on drugs: Knot MetroPark (see page 33) 9:00 PM Screech owl Search, Hills & Dales tying, Possum Creek MetroPark (see page 45) 8:30 aM Morning Chores on the Farm, Car- MetroPark (see page 43) 9:00 aM volunteer: backpacking trail Work riage Hill MetroPark (see page 33) days, Germantown MetroPark (see page 44) 9:00 aM bike for the Health of it: Creekside sun, may 29, 2011 10:00 aM Springtime nature Photography, bikeway, Eastwood MetroPark (see page 44) 10:00 aM twin valley trail Hike with the day- Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 43) 9:00 aM Hooked on Fishing, not on drugs; Fish- ton Metro Hikers, Germantown MetroPark 10:00 aM Good Gardening Series: Part 5 ing Skills, Possum Creek MetroPark (see page 45) (see page 46) Planting the Garden, Wegerzyn Gardens 10:00 aM drawing Workshop with david 11:00 aM discovery Stroll, Twin Creek Me- MetroPark (see page 35) Leach, Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page troPark (see page 38) 12:00 PM volunteer: MoMba trail Work 37) 1:00 PM eco-friendly no-till Corn Planting, days, Huffman MetroPark (see page 46) 10:00 aM Roses and irises and Peonies, oh, Possum Creek MetroPark (see page 33) 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Huffman My! Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark (see page 36) MetroPark (see page 46) 11:00 aM Lemonade on the Lawn: aullwood sat, JUN 4, 2011 2:00 PM Woodman Fen exploration, Wood- open House, Aullwood Garden MetroPark 10:00 aM Paddle in the Park, Eastwood Me- man Fen Conservation Area (see page 42) (see page 36) troPark (see page 49) 2:00 PM Hike for the Health of it! Possum sun, may 15, 2011 Creek MetroPark (see page 46)

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(FRee) FRoM taSSeL to tabLe and learn as we plant this year’s corn crop eDUCatIoN Sat, MaR 19, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM with a cutting-edge approach to no-till crops, POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 which uses no conventional herbicides FaRMinG Frytown Rd. or fertilizers. Talk with the farmer and (FRee) PaRent & PReSCHooLeR: Corn is important to everyday life. Be learn the methods and equipment used, SuStainabLe FaRM PRoGRaMS a-maized at the different products that are and watch as corn crop is planted into a Parents and preschoolers are invited to corn based. Make some corn plastic and weed barrier mat of winter rye and vetch. Possum Creek MetroPark’s sustainable farm eat a corn snack! Reservations required and Ongoing demonstrations. Weather and crop to learn how food gets from the farm to limited, beginning March 1. Call (937) 276- dependent. Reservations requested, walk-ins dinner table. Reservations are required and 7062. Age: 6Y - 15Y. 6362 welcome. Call (937) 276-7062 for details. Age: limited. Age: 3Y - 6Y. 12Y and up. 6374 LittLe aPPLe Goat (FRee) FaMiLy FaRM CHoReS Sat, MaR 19, 8:30 aM-10:30 aM 6368 tue, MaR 8, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Education Sat, aPR 9, 8:30 aM-10:30 aM 6369 GaRdeninG & Center Classroom, 4790 Frytown Rd. Sat, May 21, 8:30 aM-10:30 aM 6370 Join us for the reading of Caroline Church’s POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 LandSCaPinG Frytown Rd. book “Little Apple Goat.” Afterwards there MiaMi vaLLey GaRdeninG Join a farm staff member to feed and brush will be a craft and products provided by ConFeRenCe: tHe FutuRe oF animals, gather eggs, and clean stalls. Get to goats. We will end the program with a trip GaRdeninG know some of the farm animals up close and to the barn and visit our goats. Reservations Sat, MaR 5, 7:30 aM-5:00 PM personal. Meet at farmhouse. Reservations begin February 21; call (937) 276-7062. 6499 OFF SITE, Sinclair Community College, 444 West required and limited, beginning March 1. Call Third St., Dayton PLayFuL PiGGieS (937) 276-7062 for more information or to Discover the future of gardening! Keynote tue, aPR 12, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM register. Age: 6Y and up. speakers include Peter Del Tredici and Jeff POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Education Lowenfels. Your day includes four break-out Center Classroom, 4790 Frytown Rd. (FRee) MoRninG CHoReS on sessions led by area experts with sections Learn about Possum Creek’s pigs. We will tHe FaRM for new, experienced, and vegetable read a book and do a craft, all related to Sat, MaR 19, 8:30 aM-10:00 aM 6491 gardeners. Enjoy hands-on demonstrations pigs. When we are finished, we will take a Sat, aPR 16, 8:30 aM-10:00 aM 6492 and optional cooking sessions by The walk to the pig pen and visit with our pigs. Sat, May 21, 8:30 aM-10:00 aM 6493 Culinary Arts Department of Sinclair. Reservations begin March 9; call (937) 276- CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Farm, 7891 E. Registration includes breakfast, snack, lunch, 7062. 6500 Shull Rd. breaks and parking. Fee: $50, $25 for full- HoW noW bRoWn CoW? Families can help the farm hand with daily time students, due February 18. For more tue, May 10, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM chores on the historical farm. Clean stalls, information or to register, visit POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Education collect eggs or feed the animals. Dress for www.metroparks.org/conference or call Center Classroom, 4790 Frytown Rd. the weather and barnyard work. Meet at (937) 277-6545. Fees: $50 6008 8 Cows are very important to our daily the big red barn. Reservations required nutrition. Learn about all the good things and limited: Call (937) 278-2609 or register (FRee) CoMPoSt KitCHen SeRieS: cattle do for us. We will read a book, do a online. Age: 6Y - 18Y. 8 Compost can be the winning ingredient for craft and enjoy some treats from cows. Then a successful garden. Classes can be taken we will visit the barn so you can meet our (FRee) Feed MiLLinG individually or as a series. Those completing cow. Reservations begin April 13; call (937) deMonStRation all three classes will receive a certificate for 276-7062. 6501 Sat, MaR 26, 12:00 PM-4:00 PM a free composter from Montgomery County POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 Solid Waste District. Reservations are (FRee) WHat’S GRoWinG? Frytown Rd. required and limited; call (937) 434-9005. Sat, MaR 12, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM Stop by to watch as the farmers shell and POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 grind last year’s corn crop for feed for our buiLdinG betteR SoiL Frytown Rd. animals. Watch how the tractor is used to Wed, MaR 9, 6:30 PM-8:30 PM Junior Farmer Series 2 will concentrate on grind corn cobs for animal bedding. Meet COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, the different crops that grow on farms of all at barn. Reservations requested, walk-ins MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. Plants need soil for nutrients. Gardeners will sizes. We will meet two Saturdays a month, welcome: Call (937) 276-7062 to register or learn how to determine their soil type and March through September. Sign up for the for more information. Age: 5Y and up. 6367 entire series and complete 10 classes to how to enhance the soil to ensure gardening success. Age: 18Y and up. 6334 receive a certificate and memento. A list of (FRee) eCo-FRiendLy no-tiLL topics, dates, and times will be provided at CoRn PLantinG baCKyaRd CoMPoStinG the first session Saturday, March 12, 10:00 Sun, May 29, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Wed, MaR 16, 6:30 PM-8:30 PM AM to 11:30 AM. Reservations required and POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, limited, beginning March 1. Call (937) 276- Frytown Rd. MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. 7062. Age: 7Y - 16Y. 6365 Meet at demonstration crop fields to watch During this program, we will discuss the

metroparks.org 33 Guide to e vent aC tivity process involved in creating compost, discover with Brian Jorg, Cincinnati Zoo and Garden volunteer opportunity at the the characteristics of good compost, and Botanical Garden, some of the plants that Sustainable Garden Classroom is right for problem-solve typical concerns of the home will become part of your must-have list. Stay you. Green gardening is about growing your gardener. Age: 18Y and up. 6335 after the program for a guided tour through own food—fresh, flavorful and pesticide-free. 8 aLL about WoRMS the wildflower garden.6342 Reservations required. For details, call (937) 277-6545. 6230 8 Wed, MaR 23, 6:30 PM-8:30 PM Contain youRSeLF COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, FRi, May 6, 11:30 aM-1:00 PM MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third (FRee) LeaRninG FRoM tHe Worms can make fast work of turning trash Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. LandSCaPe SeRieS: into green gold for your garden. Discover Container Gardens are a great way to bring This “walk and talk” program takes place whether the wigglers are your preferred beautiful plants to your doorstep. Bring your on the third Sunday through September. type of composting and how they can do lunch and learn how to create a dramatic Seasonal topics will be discussed within the dirty work for you. Age: 18Y and up. 6336 container garden. Get a sneak peek at Arboretum’s landscape. Dress appropriately the accent plants that can be purchased for the outdoors. Reservations requested, (FRee) LunCH and LeaRn SeRieS: through our Garden Store. 6344 8 call (937) 434-9005 or register online. Enjoy speakers who will give new meaning WateR-WiSe GaRdenS eaRLy CoLoR and inteReSt to the term “power gardening” during this Wed, May 18, 11:30 aM-1:00 PM Sun, MaR 20, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM popular brown bag lunch series. Reservations COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Huffman required and limited; call (937) 434-9005 or Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. Gallery, 6733 Springboro Pk. register online. Age: 18Y and up. Worried to leave your garden even for a Get a closer look at the early signs of PRuninG baSiCS day in the summer for fear of wilting upon new life springing up at Cox Arboretum tHu, MaR 17, 11:30 aM-1:00 PM your return? Bring your lunch and learn the MetroPark. Enjoy the colors and sounds that COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third details to make your garden more water surround you while learning about ways to Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. wise. 6340 8 enhance your garden early in the season. Proper pruning is the key to maintaining Age: 18Y and up. 6337 8 plant health and the desired form. Learn the (FRee) in tHe GaRden SeRieS WoodLand WiLdFLoWeRS basic techniques for caring for your woody Get hands-on experience and gardening tips Sun, aPR 17, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM plants. A portion of the class will consist with seasoned MetroParks horticulture staff COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Huffman of outdoor demonstrations, so bring your at one of the Grow With Your Neighbors Gallery, 6733 Springboro Pk. pruners and dress for the weather. 6345 8 Community Gardens. The spotlight is on the beauty of Ohio’s eMeRaLd aSH boReR in oHio CooL WeatHeR: CRoPS & wildflowers as you learn about identification tue, MaR 29, 11:30 aM-1:00 PM tReLLiSeS characteristics, habitat and cultural requirements. Each walk will last about a COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third Sat, MaR 19, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM half hour. Age: 18Y and up. 8 Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, 6338 The emerald ash borer (EAB) is an exotic Community Garden, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. Renovate & ReJuvenate beetle discovered in Michigan in the Get hands-on experience planting cool Sun, May 15, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM summer of 2002. It continues to wreak season spring crops and building simple COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Huffman havoc on us and the Ash tree communities. trellises for peas. Reservations requested, Gallery, 6733 Springboro Pk. Join us to learn where we are today with walk-ins welcome. For details, call (937) 277- Give your existing landscape a face-lift this menace, who is quarantined as well as 6545. 6228 8 without removing it entirely. During this what that means, and what our options are. MuLCHinG youR GaRden relaxing walk-and-talk program, participants 6341 8 will learn techniques to rejuvenate existing tue, May 24, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM landscapes as well as care for many popular attRaCtinG biRdS to tHe OFF SITE, College Hill Community Garden 8 GaRdenS Save time weeding and save money garden plants. Age: 18Y and up. 6339 FRi, aPR 15, 11:30 aM-1:00 PM watering! Learn to mulch your garden COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third properly. College Hill Community Garden Good GaRdeninG SeRieS: Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. located at the east dead-end of Parkhill (off Join us for a five-part series on sustainable Great gardens have more than beautiful Lanewood), 45406. Reservations requested, gardening, which includes all the aspects of plants. Mirror a healthy natural ecosystem walk-ins welcome. For details, call (937) 277- creating and growing a beautiful and healthy and learn how to invite some of your 6545. 6226 8 garden while being good to the earth as well. favorite birds into your garden. 6343 8 Attend one or all five courses. We will visit the community gardens when applicable for native WiLdFLoWeRS (FRee) voLunteeR: beCoMe a GReen GaRdeneR demonstrations. For more information or to tue, aPR 26, 11:30 aM-1:00 PM reserve a spot, call (937) 277-6545. COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third Sat, MaR 19, 12:00 PM-1:30 PM Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult (FRee) PaRt 1 tHe Joy oF diRt Native wildflowers are often overlooked Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. Sat, MaR 26, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM for the shade garden. Bring your lunch and Join us for lunch and learn which Green WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult

34 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity

Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. by-step from planting seeds and seedlings to (FRee) advanCed youtH MetroParks’ Mark Davis, who also teaches staking and installing support system, as well GaRden CLub at Clark State, will tell you all you need to as watering systems. We’ll talk creative plant tHu, aPR 14 - tHu, SeP 8, 4:00 PM-5:30 know about soil and how to make and keep combinations as well as ingenious vegetable PM it healthy. Because good soil is the beginning pairings. Learn the best use of space, color, WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, of any good garden, this is a program and texture for the most beautiful garden Community Garden, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. you won’t want to miss! Reservations are you’ve ever had! 6247 Each Thursday, participants get an requested and walk-ins are welcome. 6240 in-depth look at how the garden works and PaRt 2 buiLdinG a Rain baRReL advanCed GaRdeninG WitH how to manage it. Activities coincide with Sat, aPR 9, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM Janet MaCunoviCH garden needs and include skill building, hands-on work, games, cooking, and fun! WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult tue, aPR 5, 6:00 PM-9:00 PM 6332 Participants are expected to commit to Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. Wed, aPR 6, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6348 A rain barrel is a great way to get free COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, the whole season. A random drawing water for your landscape! We will offer MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. will be used to fill club spaces.drawing three options this year: 1) Pay for the barrel, Garden designer and author Janet registration is open until March 15. completed; pick it up the day of class: $70, Macunovich is bringing a series of classes Registrations received after this date will be 2) Come to class and build it with help: $30, to help make a new garden or improve added in the order they are received; call 3) Come to class, pick up materials and one you already have. Those who attend (937) 277-6545. Age: 9Y - 12Y. 6482 8 build it at home: $20. Reservations required the series are given the special offer of a and limited. Please call (937) 277-6545 for personal review by the instructor. This is (FRee) tRee bLoSSoM tea PaRty information. Fees: $20-$70 6241 not a beginner series. Fee is required at Wed, aPR 20, 11:00 aM-12:30 PM time of reservation. Reservations required WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Garden (FRee) PaRt 3 WeLCoMe SPRinG: Green, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. and limited; call (937) 434-9005 or register Every year cultures around the world WeedS and WateR online. Fees: $10 per session 8 Sat, aPR 16, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM celebrate the appearance of cherry WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult blossoms. Bring a tea cup, lunch and a (FRee) youtH GaRden CLub FoR Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. blanket and come celebrate our many Before you can get gardening in spring, you beGinneRS varieties of tree blossoms. We’ll provide the need to think about weeds and watering tue, aPR 12 - tue, SeP 6, 4:00 PM-5:30 tea and activities. Tea party attire is optional, in summer. Today, we’ll talk about methods PM but encouraged! Weather permitting. for stopping weeds before they start and WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Skeeter’s Reservations required, call (937) 277-6545 or Garden, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. controlling them if they do, and discuss register online. Age: 3Y - 6Y. 6227 8 methods of watering the garden, ranging Each Tuesday, parents and kids learn to garden together by participating in weekly from drip irrigation hose to in-ground water (FRee) natuRe’S inCRedibLe delivery systems called ollas. A great class work and activities from planning to harvest. Games, cooking, and hands-on learning edibLeS for anyone who gardens. Registrations are Sat, May 7, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM requested and walk-ins are welcome. 6242 make for a fun, productive growing season. Participants are expected to commit to the POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 Frytown Rd. (FRee) PaRt 4 PLanninG tHe whole season. A random drawing will be Discover and learn what may be growing in GaRden used to fill club spaces.drawing registration your yard, garden or a neighboring field that Sat, aPR 23, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM is open until March 15. Registrations you can harvest for your eating enjoyment WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult received after this date will be added in the and not cost you a cent. Perhaps you Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. order they are received. Call (937) 277-6545 can even designate a place in your home Great gardens begin with a great plan. Learn for details. Age: 6Y - 8Y. 6318 8 about site analysis, garden size, getting the garden or landscape to propagate these plants for the beginnings of Permaculture. most from the least space, plant selection, (FRee) WHeRe doeS aLL tHe structures, fences, and supports. We’ll talk Reservations requested, walk-ins welcome. Rain Go? Call (937) 276-7062. Age: 18Y and up. 6372 about the right size garden for you as well as Wed, aPR 13, 5:30 PM-6:30 PM the best plants. Come with your notebook OFF SITE, CountyCorp Model Home, 5870 Beth (FRee) GoLden GaRdeneRS and questions and go home with a design Road, Huber Heights Wed, May 18 - Wed, auG 17, 10:00 aM- for a wonderful garden. Reservations are Explore the rain garden— and rain barrels— 11:30 aM requested and walk-ins are welcome. 6243 at one of CountyCorp’s green rebuilt WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, (FRee) PaRt 5 PLantinG tHe model homes. Learn why rain gardens Wegerzyn Center, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. are important, how you can incorporate Seniors with limited mobility are invited GaRden either this design and/or native plants in Sat, May 14, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM to garden in a wheel chair- and walker- your landscaping at home. Reservations WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult accessible area with raised containers. Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. requested, walk-ins welcome. Call (937) 277- Gloves, tools and refreshments are Now that you’ve planned your garden, it’s 6545 for details or register online. 6290 8 provided. Meet Wednesdays through time to plant! This class will take you step- August 3. Every week learn something new

metroparks.org 35 Guide to e vent aC tivity about plant and root growth, mulching when environmental and economic concerns (FRee) FRoM SHeeP to SHaWLS and weeding. Taste and take home align. Films include Nutkin’s Last Stand, Sat, aPR 16 - Sun, aPR 17, 10:00 aM- vegetables and flowers, and enjoy cooking Butterfly, Aquafinito, The Secret Life of 5:00 PM demonstrations and impromptu parties. You Paper, and We Are The Zaballeen. 6248 8 CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Farm, 7891 E. Shull Rd. may join us at any time during the planting deeP doWn and growing season. Registration required The role that sheep played on the farm Wed, aPR 6, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM and limited, call (937) 277-6545. will be discussed for this comprehensive 6254 COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. program. Watch as the sheep are sheared (FRee) RoSeS and iRiSeS and Beverly and Terry grew up on opposite sides for the spring at 2:00 PM. Help card wool PeonieS, oH, My! of a mountain ridge in eastern Kentucky. and watch as fabric is dyed using traditional Sat, May 21, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM Now in their fifties, the two find themselves methods. Come hear about the spinning WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Adult in a debate dividing their community and process and factory production of wool. Classroom, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. the world: Who controls, consumes and Watch spinners and weavers process the May is the perfect time for some of the benefits from our planet’s shrinking supply wool into yarn. Call (937) 278-2609 for more most beautiful flowers we grow. Learn of natural resources? This film examines the information. 6488 about varieties and care for each of myriad impacts of our actions. Film length: these wonderful plants and take a tour of 57 minutes. 6249 8 (FRee) CoRn PLantinG on tHe Wegerzyn’s outstanding collections. This is FaRM a great class for long-time and beginning (FRee) Go GReen! Sun, May 15, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM gardeners as well. Bring your friends, your tHu, aPR 14, 11:30 aM-12:30 PM CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Farm, 7891 E. camera, and a notebook. Reservations are PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. Shull Rd. requested and walk-ins are welcome. Call Sally Leatherman from A Greener You Watch as the farmer rides the corn planter (937)277-6545. 6252 will give you the top ten ways to go green and plants the corn in check rows. See a at home and create a safer, healthier corn field laid out before your very eyes. (FRee) GReen GaRden Q&a environment. She’ll also share recipes for Afterward, stop by the farmhouse to learn Wed, May 25, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM green living. Registration requested; walk-ins a little more about heirloom corn. Call (937) WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, welcome. Call (937) 228-2088 to register, or 278-2609 for more information. 6490 Community Garden, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. register online. 6331 8 Green gardening is about growing your (FRee) LeMonade on tHe LaWn: own food—fresh, flavorful, and pesticide- auLLWood oPen HouSe free. Green Gardener volunteers at the HeRitaGe & HiStoRy Sat, May 21, 11:00 aM-2:00 PM Sustainable Garden Classroom share (FRee) CoRn SHeLLinG & AULLWOOD GARDEN METROPARK, Gardens, their knowledge and experience with you GRindinG 930 Aullwood Rd. and answer your gardening questions. Join us for an open house and tour of the Reservations requested, walk-ins welcome. Sun, MaR 20, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Farm, 7891 E. gardens. Learn the history of Aullwood and For details, call (937) 277-6545. 8 6229 Shull Rd. the Aulls and how this wonderful place Try your hand at one of the most common came to be. Bring your camera and friends 19th century midwest farm chores. Visitors and enjoy a beautiful day. Reservations are GReen LivinG of all ages can stop by the barn to help shell required. Please call (937) 277-6545. 6526 8 (FRee) enviRonMentaL FiLM the kernels from the cob for feed. Also, SeRieS: watch as the kernels are then ground for Join us for our fifth anniversary season of film feed using our steam engine. Call (937) 278- HoMe & HobbieS and discussion during the 2011 Environmental 2609 for more information. 6489 (FRee) CaRRiaGe HiLL HeRb Film Series. Films are shown on the first GRouP PRoGRaMS Wednesday of the month, January-March, (FRee) aPPRentiCe day Join the Carriage Hill Herb Group on the July and August. Enjoy free popcorn and Sun, aPR 3, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM first Saturday of each month, from 10:00 am refreshments during the film and stay CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Farm, 7891 E. to 12:00 pm for a free program discussing afterward to share your observations with Shull Rd. the merits and uses of herbs. Refreshments others during open discussion. Reservations Want to learn an 1880s occupation? provided. Call (937) 278-2609 for more requested; walk-ins welcome. Call (937) 434- Children ages 8 and up are invited to come information. 9005 or register online. to the farm to learn about period skills such bibLiCaL HeRbS SHoRt taKeS as blacksmithing, woodworking, baking, cooking and domestic arts. Come learn Sat, MaR 5, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM Wed, MaR 2, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Visitor Center about the time period by lending a hand. COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Meeting Room, 7800 E. Shull Rd. Call (937) 278-2609 for details. MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. 6487 Many herbs are mentioned in scripture. These films, while short, pack a punch Join us to learn which herbs are cited and with their messages on invasive species, when. 6494 consumerism, and the struggles that happen

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HeRb CHeeSeS (FRee) KentuCKy deRby diSH Sat, aPR 2, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM tHu, May 5, 11:30 aM-12:30 PM passport to NatUre CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Visitor Center PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. Meeting Room, 7800 E. Shull Rd. And they’re off! Get ready for the big race Learn how herbs lend themselves to flavor a with Carol Reynolds from Annie’s as she This program gives incentives for families variety of cheeses and cheese dishes. 6495 demonstrates how to make a recipe that to complete eight visits to our designated CatniP toyS has been in her family for years—a Kentucky passport programs. Here’s how it works: Derby dish. Registration requested; walk-ins Sat, May 7, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM Visit MetroParks facilities, participate in CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Visitor Center welcome. Call (937) 228-2088 to register, or designated passport programs, and get your Meeting Room, 7800 E. Shull Rd. register online. 6376 8 passport stamped. When eight of the Make and take home a toy made with catnip boxes are stamped, fill in the information for your pet. 6496 MaKe youR oWn CRePe and mail your passport to Five Rivers Sat, May 7, 11:00 aM-1:00 PM MetroParks. Every child who completes a FReSH SuMMeR WRaP deMo PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. passport will become an official Nature tHu, MaR 10, 11:30 aM-12:30 PM Stop by the crepe-making station and learn Traveler and will receive a special traveler PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. how to prepare your own crepe from the gift along with recognition in this publication. Lamun Amato will demonstrate how to make Market’s in-house expert, Sabine Grand. Look for ptN in the program listing to see the fresh summer wraps offered at Baan This is a chance to learn what goes into if it qualifies as apt N program! For more Thai Noi. After the demo, participants will making crepes and then enjoy your own information or directions to have the opportunity to make their own cooking. Bon appetit! Registration not program sites, call (937) 275-PaRK or visit wrap and enjoy it for lunch. Register by required; walk-ins welcome on a first-come, us at MetRoPaRKS.oRG/PaSSPoRt. calling (937) 228-2088. Fees: $3 6329 first-served basis. Call (937) 228-2088 for more information. Fees: $4 6328 Congratulations to (FRee) MaPLe SyRuP MaeStRo these Nature travelers! tHu, MaR 31, 11:00 aM-11:45 aM (FRee) natuRaLLy GLuten FRee PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. tHu, May 19, 11:30 aM-12:30 PM FIRST PASSPORT Learn from the maestro who orchestrates PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. ivan atkinson Chef Joe Fish will share some of his most making maple syrup from over 700 trees Kelton bussell in his woods. From tapping, to running the popular gluten-free recipes and tips for flow lines, to producing one of the freshest selecting the best gluten-free products on devin Lutz products at the Market, Dean Dohner will the market. He will share his guide for eating trey Lutz take you on the journey of making syrup that local, organic and minimally processed, Kamryn Lutz gluten-free foods. Registration requested; makes pancakes ever so good. Registration danielle Lutz requested; walk-ins welcome. Call (937) 228- walk-ins welcome. Call (937) 228-2088 to 2088 or register online. 6224 8 register, or register online. 6380 8 ella Smith Lauren Smith (FRee) dRaWinG WoRKSHoP KidS’ CRePe-MaKinG deMo Jacob Shearer FRi, aPR 29, 11:30 aM-12:30 PM WitH david LeaCH Zachary Shearer PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. Sat, May 21, 10:00 aM-2:00 PM A cooking class for kids conducted by WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Garden SECOND PASSPORT Green, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. “the crepe lady,” Sabine Grand, from Shayla Myer Join David Leach, Dayton artist and Crepe Boheme. This is a crepe-making professor emeritus of art and art history, for theodore Horvath demonstration followed by an opportunity a plein air drawing session. This will coincide for participants to make their own crepe. THIRD PASSPORT with building Patrick Dougherty’s sculpture. Registration required and limited. Register Jack Horvath This session will last for four hours; you by calling (937) 228-2088. Fees: $3 6327 can come for some or all of the time. Bring your friends, drawing materials and a bag (FRee) dRaWinG at auLLWood lunch. A wonderful spring session for all, no WitH david LeaCH matter what your skill level. We’ll meet in the Sat, aPR 30, 2:00 PM-4:00 PM gardens. Call (937) 277-6545. 6253 8 AULLWOOD GARDEN METROPARK, Gardens, 930 Aullwood Rd. Join Dayton artist David Leach for a plein air session in Aullwood Gardens. Drop in for some or all of this two-hour program. Bring your friends and drawing materials. A wonderful spring drawing session, no matter what your skill level. 6525 8

metroparks.org 37 Guide to e vent aC tivity

and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. (FRee) tiKe HiKe PRoGRaMS: natuRe Sun, May 8, 11:00 aM-12:30 PM 6440 Take a hike in the woods with your little ones (FRee) diSCoveRy StRoLL GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, as we get up close and personal with nature! Escape on this relaxed-paced adventure 6910 Boomershine Rd. Registration is not required. Call (937) 277- through the park while learning about Wed, May 11, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6312 4178 for more information. ptN Age: 2Y - 5Y. nature and discovering this park’s history. HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond Reservations are not required. Weather and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. aniMaL HoMeS permitting: Call (937) 277-4178 for details. tue, May 17, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6539 FRi, MaR 4, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter/East Age: 16Y and up. CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Redwing Park, 4361 National Road tue, MaR 1, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6442 Shelter/Parking Lot, 7821 E. Shull Rd. Search for where the animals are spending TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, CCC Shelter, 6313 Wed, May 18, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM the winter and explore how some are 2101 U.S. 40 HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond keeping warm on this discovery hike. 6264 Sun, MaR 6, 12:00 PM-1:30 PM 6315 and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, Wed, May 25, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6314 HibeRnatinG inSeCtS 6910 Boomershine Rd. HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond Mon, MaR 14, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM tue, MaR 15, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6538 and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, Blue Heron CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Redwing Sun, May 29, 11:00 aM-12:30 PM 6441 Shelter, 2000 U.S. 40 Shelter/Parking Lot, 7821 E. Shull Rd. TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter, Enjoy an expedition with your preschooler in Wed, MaR 16, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6304 9688 Eby Rd search of hibernating insects. Once they’re HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond found, your child will warm them up with and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. (FRee) baCKPaCKinG babieS body heat and watch them wake up! 6276 Wed, MaR 23, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6305 PRoGRaMS: SQuiRReL SeaRCH HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond Backpacking Babies programs are for and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. tue, MaR 15, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM parents and their babies to share stories, SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 Sun, MaR 27, 11:00 aM-12:30 PM 6316 enjoy fresh air, and learn about nature. Conference Rd. TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter, Babies are exposed to new sights, sounds, Join other preschoolers and their parents in 9688 Eby Rd textures, and smells on each journey. A baby search for this rodent of our treetops. We Wed, MaR 30, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6306 backpack or snugli is required as trails are will explore how these furry creatures get HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond not stroller friendly. Weather permitting: through the winter while enjoying a winter and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. Call (937) 277-4178 for details. Age: 1M-2Y. morning in the park. 6277 tue, aPR 5, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6536 TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, CCC Shelter, natuRe’S teXtuReS MoSS, natuRe’S CaRPet 2101 U.S. 40 tHu, MaR 3, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM Wed, MaR 23, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM Wed, aPR 6, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6307 SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond Conference Rd. 100 Deep Hollow Rd. and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. Explore nature with your baby as we This often-overlooked plant has many Sun, aPR 10, 11:00 aM-12:30 PM 6438 feel different textures in our natural secrets to share. Come out and search for GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, environment. 6279 different textures of moss in the park!6275 6910 Boomershine Rd. SiGnS oF SPRinG WoodLand adventuRe Wed, aPR 13, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6308 tHu, aPR 7, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM tHu, MaR 31, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. Conference Rd. Outside Amphitheater, 6910 Boomershine Rd. tue, aPR 19, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6443 Get your baby outside and search for signs Come with us on an adventurous nature CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Redwing of spring! 6280 hike through a successional woodland, Shelter/Parking Lot, 7821 E. Shull Rd. exploring the trees, plants, and wildlife. 6278 Wed, aPR 20, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6309 CaRPet oF CoLoR HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond tHu, May 5, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM baCKyaRd eXPedition and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 Does your preschooler like exploring the Conference Rd. Wed, aPR 27, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6310 backyard with bug boxes, net, or a magnifying Treat your baby to some fresh air while HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond glass? Grab your preschooler’s nature study and Overlook, 2800 S. Patterson Blvd. you both enjoy nature’s show of beautiful tools and we’ll use these tools to connect wildflowers while hiking along a babbling Sat, aPR 30, 11:00 aM-12:30 PM 6439 your child with nature, and make sure your TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter, brook. We will stop for a break and snack child knows how to be safe in your backyard. 9688 Eby Rd time in a woodland glade. 6281 Mon, aPR 4, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6271 tue, May 3, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6537 HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, CCC Shelter, 100 Deep Hollow Rd. 2101 U.S. 40 Wed, aPR 6, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6265 Wed, May 4, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6311 TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, Blue Heron HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Dogwood Pond Shelter, 2000 U.S. 40

38 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity

tue, aPR 12, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6272 (FRee) MaPLe SuGaRinG in youR Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 oWn baCKyaRd tHu, May 12, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6401 Conference Rd. Sat, MaR 5, 2:30 PM-4:00 PM SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 tHu, aPR 21, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6273 GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, Conference Rd. ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter/East 6910 Boomershine Rd. Wed, May 18, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6398 Park, 4361 National Road Hike along the white trail to learn how the GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, 6910 Boomershine Rd. FRi, aPR 29, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6274 Native Americans began maple sugaring, tue, May 24, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6406 GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center how the pioneers adapted the process, EASTWOOD METROPARK, First Parking Lot, Outside Amphitheater, 6910 Boomershine Rd. and how it can be done today in your own 1385 Harshman Rd. noCtuRnaL adventuRe backyard. Sample a taste of real maple syrup Sat, aPR 9, 8:00 PM-9:00 PM made here at the Nature Center kitchen. (FRee) advanCed butteRFLy Call (937) 277-4178 for details. HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, ptN 6259 PRoGRaM SeRieS: 100 Deep Hollow Rd. We’ll give you the skills to attract butterflies (FRee) WHo and WHat MaKeS Join us on a night hike just for preschoolers to your garden. Reservations required; call and their families. We will sit around a MaPLe SyRuP? (937) 434-9005 or register online for any or campfire and discuss the differences Sat, MaR 5, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM all of the following programs. Age: 14Y and up. between night and day, talk about our fears SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 of the night, then explore pelts of nocturnal Conference Rd. WHeRe do butteRFLieS CoMe animals. Afterwards, we will venture out in Take a family-friendly hike along the trail FRoM? search of screech owls and attempt to lure to learn how the Native Americans began tue, MaR 8, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM one in close for the children to see. 6555 maple sugaring, how the pioneers adapted COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, the process, and how it can be done today MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. budS and buGS in your own backyard. Sample a taste of real Have you ever wondered why a butterfly Wed, May 4, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM maple syrup made in a local kitchen. We’ll watches over a territory? Discover how color, HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, enjoy signs of spring along the way. Weather markings and pheromones help a butterfly 100 Deep Hollow Rd. permitting; call (937) 277-4178 for details. Use face paint to transform your preschooler find a mate. Explore more about butterfly 8 into a bee, bug, or butterfly. We will pretend ptN 6260 courtship and mating rituals. 6282 to be nature’s pollinators, exploring flowers, butteRFLy id (FRee) aduLt natuRe WaLK and discovering the relationships that flowers Wed, aPR 27, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM Explore nature while meeting new friends have with bugs. 6266 COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third on this slow-paced journey. Bring binoculars Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. beaveR FeveR if you have them; a limited supply will be Go beyond the swallowtail to learn more tHu, May 5, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM available. Call (937) 277-4178 for details. in-depth identification. Discover more about EASTWOOD METROPARK, Eastwood Lake, 1401 tue, MaR 8, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6395 the family groups and how to classify various Harshman Rd. ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter butterflies.6379 8 Learn about the largest rodents in North Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. America while searching for them and the tHu, MaR 10, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6394 GaRdeninG FoR butteRFLieS clues they leave behind. 6267 SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 tue, May 3, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM 6283 LittLe SPRoutS Conference Rd. tue, May 10, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM 6563 6564 tue, May 17, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM Wed, MaR 16, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6396 tue, May 17, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, tue, May 24, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM 6565 Outside Amphitheater, 6910 Boomershine Rd. 6910 Boomershine Rd. COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. Learn what a plant needs to grow and tue, MaR 22, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6404 Explore the importance of the host plant search for baby plants in the park. 6270 EASTWOOD METROPARK, First Parking Lot, 1385 Harshman Rd. and butterfly connection in this four-session SoLaR PoWeR course. It takes more than a butterfly bush tue, aPR 12, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6402 FRi, May 20, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter to attract butterflies. You’ll learn practices as ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter/East Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. they apply to butterfly gardens. Knowledge of Park, 4361 National Road butterflies and plants recommended. 8 Discover the power of the sun and learn tHu, aPR 14, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6400 how important it is to nature, as a clock, and SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 Conference Rd. (FRee) PRoJeCt FeedeR WatCH for energy! 6268 Wed, aPR 20, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6399 FRi, MaR 11, 12:30 PM-2:30 PM 6434 SaLaMandeR SeaRCH GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, Sat, MaR 12, 10:30 aM-12:30 PM 6435 Mon, May 23, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6910 Boomershine Rd. FRi, MaR 25, 12:30 PM-2:30 PM 6436 SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 tue, aPR 26, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6405 Sat, MaR 26, 10:30 aM-12:30 PM 6437 Conference Rd. EASTWOOD METROPARK, First Parking Lot, GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, Treat your preschooler to dirty hands 1385 Harshman Rd. 6910 Boomershine Rd. Enjoy our Window on Wildlife from the and fresh air as we explore the park for tue, May 10, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6403 salamanders. 6269 ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter warmth of indoors. Help count the visitors

metroparks.org 39 Guide to e vent aC tivity to our bird feeders for a citizen’s science back to the Arboretum. Retired or returning (FRee) eaRLy SPRinGtiMe WaLK report to be sent to the Cornell Laboratory guides and anyone with enthusiasm for Sat, MaR 19, 10:30 aM-12:00 PM of Ornithology. Bird watchers of all skill working with students in nature is invited to ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter levels are welcome. Meet at the Window our first training. Find out what is involved Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. on Wildlife in the Nature Center. Weather in tour guiding at the Arboretum and get an Spring is right around the corner! Join permitting; call (937) 277-4178 for details. overview of our spring tours. Refreshments us as we take a hike through Englewood provided. 6234 8 MetroPark and search for signs of spring. No (FRee) WoodCoCK danCe bodaCiouS botany reservations required. Call (937) 277-4178 for FRi, MaR 11, 6:30 PM-7:30 PM 6412 Mon, MaR 21, 9:30 aM-11:30 aM more information. ptN 6458 8 TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter, COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, 9688 Eby Rd MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. (FRee) euReKa Lab! eXPeRiMent Sat, MaR 12, 6:30 PM-7:30 PM 6413 This workshop with Rich Pearson, WitH youR veGGieS CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Redwing horticulturist with Cox Arboretum Sat, MaR 19, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Shelter/Parking Lot, 7821 E. Shull Rd. MetroPark, will give you an eye-opening COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Kettering Be a witness to the woodcock’s extravagant view into the world of botany and easy Learning Lab, 6733 Springboro Pk. mating display of circles, spirals, and dives ways to relate plant concepts to students Instead of eating, in today’s lab, we’ll be while enjoying the crisp night. Call (937) 277- during tours. Both returning and new guides experimenting with some of your favorite 4178 for details. ptN will be armed with the information to vegetables. Participants will get hands- answer questions about the world of plants. on and make their own discoveries about (FRee) SiGnS oF SPRinG Refreshments provided. 6235 8 what powers are hidden in the edible parts Sat, MaR 12, 2:30 PM-3:30 PM of plants. Drop-in between 1-2:30pm to GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, WiLdFLoWeRS in tHe WiLd participate. Children must be accompanied 6910 Boomershine Rd. Mon, MaR 28, 9:30 aM-11:30 aM by an adult while in the lab. No reservations Join us as we walk the trails looking for signs COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, required. Call (937) 434-9005 for more of spring. No reservations required; call MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. information. Age: 6Y - 12Y. 6244 8 (937) 277-4178. ptN 6420 We’ll explore the world of wildflowers and the wonders of our own wildflower garden at (FRee) WateRFoWL at HuFFMan WateRFoWL FieLd tRiP the Arboretum with volunteer Kathy Dulaney. Kathy will share her wealth of knowledge and Sat, MaR 19, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM Sat, MaR 12, 8:00 aM-4:00 PM HUFFMAN METROPARK, Huffman North Park, expertise about these beautiful plants, along POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Education 4095 Lower Valley Pk with tidbits to add to your tours. A portion of Center Classroom, 4790 Frytown Rd. Bring your family to Huffman MetroPark for the program will be outdoors; please dress Learn how to identify Ohio’s waterfowl a chance to learn about migrating waterfowl! appropriately. 8 while discussing their life histories as we 6236 Characteristics of ducks and wading birds travel in vans to different birding hot spots will be presented, and participants will have throughout the Dayton area, including (FRee) PaRent and access to a spotting scope to better observe Spring Valley Wildlife Area. Bring binoculars PReSCHooLeR PRoGRaMS: these colorful creatures. Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one. Parent and Preschool programs will engage if you have them. Meet in first parking lot. Reservations required and limited; call (937) children ages 3-6 years old and their Reservations not required. Call (937) 277- 277-4178 or register online. Age: 14Y and up. caregiver in nature discoveries. Participants 4178 for details. ptN 6459 8 Fees: $10 6470 8 will explore station-based activities with topics related to plants, science, and the (FRee) beaveR SeaRCH (FRee) CHiLdRen’S touR Guide world around them. For details about this Sat, MaR 19, 6:30 PM-8:00 PM WoRKSHoP SeRieS: program, call (937) 434-9005. Age: 3Y - 6Y. 8 EASTWOOD METROPARK, Last Parking Lot, Discover the joy of sharing nature with do you Live in a tRee? 1385 Harshman Rd. children, as a volunteer children’s tour Search for beavers while learning about tue, MaR 15, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6180 guide at Cox Arboretum MetroPark. No COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third the life history of North America’s largest experience is necessary; however, potential Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. rodent. Reservations not required. Call (937) guides should be able to walk/hike the 277-4178 for details. ptN 6460 8 Arboretum grounds comfortably. Find out SenSinG a CHanGe more by attending our training workshops or tHu, aPR 7, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6182 (FRee) StRoLLeR StRut PRoGRaMS: call (937) 275-5059. Reservations requested; COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third Stroller Strut is a casual stroll on the walk-ins welcome. Register online or call Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. Arboretum ground for caregivers and (937) 434-9005. Age: 16Y and up. SteP into SCienCe children ages 0-3 years old. Each strut has a nature theme and encourages interaction WeLCoMe SPRinG! tue, May 10, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6181 COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third between the caregiver and child as they Mon, MaR 14, 9:30 aM-11:30 aM Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. discover new plants and their surroundings. COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, MeadWestvaco Theatre, 6733 Springboro Pk. For details about this program, call (937) 434- Get ready to welcome students and spring 9005. Age: 1M - 3Y. 8

40 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity

WaRM WindS bLoW (FRee) biRdS oF PRey mammal interacts with its environment and tue, MaR 22, 9:00 aM-10:00 aM 6183 Sat, MaR 26, 10:00 aM-12:00 PM explore their relationship with people. No COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Education PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. reservation required. Call (937) 277-4178 for Center, 6733 Springboro Pk. A Bird’s Paradise has invited Susan Williams more information. ptN 6424 WondeRFuLLy WiLd FLoWeRS from RAPTOR to bring her birds of prey to the Market. You can have an up-close look (FRee) tue, aPR 26, 9:00 aM-10:00 aM 6545 FaMiLy natuRe WaLK at these fascinating predators and get your Venture into a magnificent beech forest to tue, aPR 26, 11:30 aM-12:30 PM 6546 COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Education questions answered about these amazing study spring’s beginning. We will explore Center, 6733 Springboro Pk. raptors. No registration required. Call (937) migrating birds, examine budding trees, 228-2088 for more information. 6330 search for salamanders, and discover GaRden eXPLoReR spring’s first wildflowers. Call (937) 277-4178 tue, May 24, 9:00 aM-10:00 aM 6187 (FRee) FaMiLy natuRe GaMeS for more information. ptN COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Education Bring out your family and learn how to inject Center, 6733 Springboro Pk. Sat, aPR 2, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM 6534 fun into your nature hikes by playing games POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest All good explorers use tools to help them. that teach ecological principles! These are Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. Today we’ll make some of our own fun tools the same games professional naturalists use, to use on our adventure at the arboretum. Sat, May 28, 1:00 PM-3:00 aM 6476 and require little to no materials and set-up ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter/East Reservations requested; walk-ins welcome. time. Bring a bandana if you have one. Call Park, 4361 National Road Call (937) 434-9005 or register online. (937) 277-4178 for details. ptN (FRee) noCtuRnaL aMPHibian (FRee) CaFÉ SCi: Sat, MaR 26, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM 6447 Join us for this month’s cafe and discover WESLEYAN METROPARK, Pavilion Shelter, 1441 SeaRCH Wesleyan Rd. science in a relaxed atmosphere with friends FRi, aPR 8, 8:00 PM-9:30 PM SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 and neighbors from the Miami Valley. Increase Sat, May 7, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM 6452 POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest Conference Rd. your science savvy and share your opinion Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. Search for spring peepers and spotted in our open discussion following the topic salamanders in Sugarcreek’s vernal pool. introduction. Light refreshments provided. (FRee) tRee tRivia If time allows, we may go for a night hike Call (937) 275-5059 for final topic details. Sat, MaR 26, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM and try to call in barred owls! Reservations native WiLdFLoWeRS in tHe POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest required and limited; call (937) 277-4178 or LandSCaPe Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. register online. ptN 6448 8 What tree gives off a toxin so that other tHu, MaR 24, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third plants can’t grow below it? Which tree was (FRee) PRoJeCt WiLd WoRKSHoP Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. used to control livestock before barbed Sat, aPR 9, 9:30 aM-4:00 PM Join local wildflower expert and volunteer wire was common? Explore how trees POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Education Kathy Dulaney and discover more about the have shaped our history and how they are Center Classroom, 4790 Frytown Rd. wonders of wildflowers and the importance of used today by humans and wildlife. No Open to anyone that teaches children, Project conserving them in our native landscapes. She reservations required. Call (937) 277-4178 for Wild is a nationally recognized curriculum will share her 20+ years of experience working more information. ptN 6453 designed to bring nature into your classroom. with these beauties. Reservations requested; Participants get to take home Project Wild and walk-ins welcome. Call (937) 434-9005 or (FRee) WeLCoMe to Project Aquatic activity guides, as well as other register online. Age: 14Y and up. 6231 8 WiLdFLoWeRS resources offered by the Ohio Department of Sat, aPR 2, 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Natural Resources. Reservations required and CaFe SCi GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, limited: Call (937) 277-4178 or register online. tHu, aPR 28, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM 6232 6910 Boomershine Rd. Age: 18Y and up. 6317 8 COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third Learn ways to identify spring wildflowers Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. using a simple wildflower key. Later, use your (FRee) WoodPeCKeR WaLK tHu, May 26, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM 6233 knowledge to identify wildflowers on a walk Sat, aPR 9, 1:00 PM-2:00 PM COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third through a rich woodland habitat. A naturalist HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. will locate other prime sites within the park 100 Deep Hollow Rd. to view these spring jewels. Call (937) 277- Hills & Dales MetroPark is home to five (FRee) RaCCoon SeaRCH 4178 for more information. 6421 different woodpeckers: the red-bellied, FRi, MaR 25, 7:30 PM-8:30 PM flicker, downy, hairy, and pileated! Come HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, (FRee) MaMMaL Study search for woodpeckers rearing young on 100 Deep Hollow Rd. Sat, aPR 2, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM this slow-paced walk through the park. No Raccoons are one of Ohio’s most well-known CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Redwing reservations required. Call (937) 277-4178 for animals. Learn more about these bandits of Shelter/Parking Lot, 7821 E. Shull Rd. details. ptN 6262 8 the woods, share raccoon stories, and search Explore the common mammals of Dayton for them in the park. No reservations required. by examining pelts, tracks, replicated Call (937) 277-4178 for details. ptN 6261 8 scat, and skulls. We will learn how each

metroparks.org 41 Guide to e vent aC tivity

(FRee) oWL PRoWL (FRee) aRboR day (FRee) biRdinG WoRKSHoP: FRi, aPR 15, 8:00 PM-10:00 PM FRi, aPR 29, 8:00 aM-5:00 PM WaRbLeRS POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Education Sat, May 7, 9:00 aM-12:30 PM Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. Center, 6733 Springboro Pk. GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center Journey into the Argonne Forest and search Learn about the trees at Cox Arboretum. Classroom, 6910 Boomershine Rd. for the barred owl, as a naturalist attempts Take a stroll along a paved pathway or on one Learn to identify these colorful beauties to call them in. Later, travel through screech of three trails. Blossom Buggy will also be by sight and song while exploring the park, owl habitat and bask in the sounds of these available for those that want a guided tour. playing games, and meeting new friends! little owls. No reservations required. Weather To learn more about our trees, stop in the Each participant will receive an ODNR permitting: Call (937) 277-4178.pt N 6450 Visitor’s Center and pick up a copy of the warbler song CD and field guide. Participants “Guide to the Trees of Cox Arboretum,” or are encouraged to attend the spring birding (FRee) WiLdFLoWeR WaLK drop in on one of the tree demonstrations. field trip on May 14. Reservations required Enjoy a leisurely walk in the park and bask For more details, call (937) 434-9005. 6333 and limited; call (937) 277-4178 or register in the beauty of wildflowers as naturalists ID online. Age: 14Y and up. 6473 8 them and share stories of folklore. Weather (FRee) aMPHibian aPPReCiation permitting: Call (937) 277-4178.pt N FRi, aPR 29, 7:30 PM-9:00 PM (FRee) eXPLoRe inSeCtS Sun, aPR 17, 10:00 aM-11:00 aM 6462 TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, Hilltop Shelter, Sat, May 7, 1:00 PM-2:30 PM POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest 1200 Brown School Rd. HUFFMAN METROPARK, Redtail Shelter/ Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. Frogs are singing their nocturnal songs! Parking Lot, 4439 Lower Valley Pk. Sat, aPR 30, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 6463 Join us as we search a frog pond for these Insects are very interesting! Bring the ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, West Park Parking enchanting vocalists and learn what it whole family to find out just how much fun Lot, 100 East National Rd. takes to be an amphibian. Bring a flashlight hunting for insects can be. A brief discussion Sun, May 1, 2:00 PM-4:00 PM 6469 and wear shoes that can get wet. No on insects will take place before we start SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 reservations required. For more information, exploring. No reservations required. For Conference Rd. call (937) 277-4178. ptN 6461 details, call (937) 277-4178. ptN 6468 8 beGinninG biRdinG WoRKSHoP (FRee) FaMiLy SCavenGeR Hunt (FRee) FRoG CHoRuS Sat, aPR 30, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Sat, aPR 23, 8:00 aM-12:00 PM FRi, May 13, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM EASTWOOD METROPARK, Last Parking Lot, CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Redwing GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center 1385 Harshman Rd. Shelter/Parking Lot, 7821 E. Shull Rd. Classroom, 6910 Boomershine Rd. Search the park for natural treasures! A list This workshop starts with the basics of Take an evening walk around the lake while will be provided to participants upon arrival. birding, including bird identification, field looking and listening for frogs. Call (937) 277- Bring a pen or pencil to check off your guide and binocular use, bird song, biology, 4178 for more information. ptN 6423 findings. Reservations not required. Call and behavior. The two-hour indoor session (937) 277-4178 for more details. ptN 6465 8 will be followed by a two-hour field study SPRinG biRdinG FieLd tRiP to in the prairie and forest. Participants are MaGee MaRSH (FRee) aniMaLS at niGHt encouraged to attend the afternoon Bird Sat, May 14, 6:00 aM-8:00 PM FRi, May 6, 8:00 PM-9:30 PM Song Study program. Reservations required POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, CCC Shelter, Frytown Rd. and limited; call (937) 277-4178 or register 2101 U.S. 40 See extremely colorful birds like warblers, online. Age: 14Y and up. Fees: $5 6471 8 Which animals can you find in the parks at tanagers, and orioles from just a few feet night? Join a naturalist as we explore this away at nationally recognized birding hot (FRee) biRd SonG Study question. A discussion on what it means spots Crane Creek State Park and Magee Sat, aPR 23, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM to be nocturnal will take place before the Marsh Wildlife Area. Bring binoculars if you GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center short hike. Bring flashlights if you have them. Classroom, 6910 Boomershine Rd. have them; a limited supply will be available. Reservations not required. For details, call Study 20 common Dayton birds and their Reservations required and limited; call (937) (937) 277-4178. ptN 6467 vocalizations with this relaxed study session. 277-4178 or register online. Age: 14Y and up. After studying, we will play games and tell Fees: $30 6474 8 (FRee) beGinninG biRdeRS stories to help us remember these songs. Sat, May 7, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM Later we will hike through different habitats (FRee) WoodMan Fen ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter in search of birds and test our new skill. Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. eXPLoRation Each participant will be given an ODNR Learn how to find birds with your youngsters Sat, May 14, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM “Ohio Bird Song” CD. Reservations required on this beginning bird walk for all ages! WOODMAN FEN CONSERVATION AREA, and limited; call (937) 277-4178 or register Participants will learn some fun bird facts and Woodman Fen, 2409 Newcastle Drive online. Age: 14Y and up. 6472 8 play a game to help with identification. Bring You’ve heard about it, now come see it! binoculars if you have them. A limited supply Once used for agriculture and dumping will be available. No reservations required. for many years, the area is coming back to its natural state. Explore this 37-acre Call (937) 277-4178 for more. ptN 6466 8 conservation area and enjoy its biodiversity.

42 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity Meet at the intersection of Amesborough My CoRneR oF tHe SKy requested; walk-ins welcome. For more Road and the dead end of Newcastle Drive. Sat, MaR 26, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM information and to register, please contact Call (937) 277-4178 for details. 6171 8 WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, (937) 277-4374 or register online. 6320 8 Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East (FRee) SCReeCH oWL SeaRCH Siebenthaler Ave. intRo to baCKPaCKinG FoR Composition is the key to great pictures. Sat, May 28, 9:00 PM-10:00 PM WoMen HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, Learn what to keep in a photo and how to Wed, MaR 16, 6:00 PM-8:30 PM 100 Deep Hollow Rd. arrange it for maximum effect in this third WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Join a naturalist on a night walk in search 8 session. 6506 Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East of the screech owl, the smallest owl of the Siebenthaler Ave. park. We will use their song to lure them CoMe See about Me Sat, aPR 2, 10:00 aM-11:30 PM Join other women interested in in for a good, close look. No reservations WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, backpacking to get an orientation to required. Call (937) 277-4178 for more Auditorium Rear South, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. backpacking. This class, taught by female information. ptN 6263 8 In this fourth and final session, bring some backpacking experts, will cover trip of your favorite photos for discussion and planning, trail techniques, nutrition, physical (FRee) WiLdFLoWeRS and insights about improving them. 6507 8 fitness, “Leave No Trace” concepts, and WoodPeCKeRS female-specific techniques. Introduction Sat, May 28, 1:00 PM-2:00 PM (FRee) auLLWood to Backpacking or other demonstrable SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 PHotoGRaPHy SeSSion experience is a prerequisite for Outdoor Conference Rd. Sat, aPR 30, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM Recreation Department backpacking trips. Start your weekend with the sight of AULLWOOD GARDEN METROPARK, Gardens, Registration is required and limited, so graceful woodpeckers while exploring the 930 Aullwood Rd. please call (937) 277-4374 or register online. opening of the wildflower season. Bring Join instructor Adam Alonzo for an Age: 14Y and up. Fees: $5 6321 8 binoculars if you have them; a limited informative photography session in Mrs. supply will be available. No reservations Aull’s wonderful garden. Participants can intRo to baCKPaCKinG required. Call (937)277-4178 for more take pictures, ask questions, and try new tHu, MaR 24, 6:30 PM-9:00 PM information. 8 ptN 6449 techniques. Reservations are requested and COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Fifth Third walk-ins are welcome; call (937) 277-6545 or Conference Room, 6733 Springboro Pk. register online. 6524 8 Get an introduction to backpacking and find PHotoGRaPHy your comfort zone in terms of trips and gear (FRee) taKe CHaRGe oF youR (FRee) SPRinGtiMe natuRe selection. This class will introduce you to CaMeRa SeRieS: PHotoGRaPHy trip planning, trail techniques and nutrition, Your camera can take good pictures all by Sat, May 14, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM physical fitness, and “Leave No Trace” itself, but for really great photos YOU need WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, concepts. Introduction to Backpacking to take charge. This series is designed for Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East or other demonstrable experience is a digital cameras with some manual controls. Siebenthaler Ave. prerequisite for local Outdoor Recreation Each session will begin with a presentation, Join instructor Adam Alonzo for an Department backpacking trips. Registration followed by an outdoor photo session informal photography session in the garden. is required and limited, so please call (937) (weather permitting). Bring your camera Participants can take pictures, ask questions 277-4374 or register online. Age: 14Y and up. and instruction booklet. Reservations are and try new techniques. Reservations are Fees: $5 6409 8 requested and walk-ins are welcome. Call requested and walk-ins are welcome. Meet (937) 277-6545 or register online. in the Gardens. Call (937)277-6545. 6503 8 baCKPaCKinG baSiCS i’M beGinninG to See tHe LiGHt Sat, aPR 2, 12:00 PM - Sun, aPR 3, Sat, MaR 12, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM 12:00 PM WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, reCreatIoN GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East Parking Lot, 6910 Boomershine Rd. Siebenthaler Ave. baCKPaCKinG This overnight field-based program hits the Learn how your camera evaluates light (FRee) tRy baCKPaCKinG! trail for a trip into the wilds of Germantown and dark, and how you sometimes need to tue, MaR 8, 4:00 PM-7:00 PM MetroPark on the Twin Valley Trail. Spend a overrule the camera. 6504 8 HILLS & DALES METROPARK, Paw Paw Shelter, night out under the stars utilizing Leave No 100 Deep Hollow Rd. Trace principles and practice the techniques i Can See CLeaRLy noW Have you ever tried backpacking? Are you covered during Introduction to Backpacking. Sat, MaR 19, 10:00 aM-11:30 aM even slightly curious? Then come anytime Prerequisite: introduction to backpacking. WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, between 4 and 7 PM to this evening, hands- Backpacking Basics is a prerequisite for Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East on program, try on a backpack, talk with Siebenthaler Ave. trips. Gear is available at no additional local experts, and experiment with some The second session will teach participants charge with reservation. Registration is of the gear. Backpacks are available on a how to use blurring as a plus and not a required and limited so please call (937) 277- first-come, first-served, basis. Reservations minus to photography. 6505 8 4374. Age: 14Y and up. Fees: $15 6410

metroparks.org 43 Guide to e vent aC tivity

(FRee) voLunteeR: Great Miami River Recreation Trail. Meet at CyCLinG Rip Rap Park, located at the intersections of baCKPaCKinG tRaiL WoRK dayS (FRee) biKe FoR tHe HeaLtH oF it Sat, aPR 9, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6197 Little York, Rip Rap, and Taylorsville roads. This series of guided bicycle rides will be Meet in the parking lot near the soccer Sat, May 14, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6198 held Saturdays April through October, GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Germantown fields. We will ride through historic Tadmor rain or shine. Participants will also have Maintenance Bays, 6675 Conservancy Rd. (9 miles). 6207 the opportunity to learn basic bicycle Help maintain the Twin Valley Trail—a StiLLWateR RiveR biKeWay (n) backpacking trail connecting Germantown maintenance tips. Earn a T-shirt by reaching a goal of 125 miles. Look for the asterisk (*) Sat, May 7, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM and Twin Creek MetroParks. No experience ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, West Park Parking necessary. Bring water and work gloves; for Pride Rides: Wear your BFTHOI T-shirt. Parents/guardians must remain with their Lot, 100 East National Rd. tools and instruction provided. Individuals Join us on a bike ride, rain or shine, on children during the program. For award and groups invited. Groups (7-15 people) the Stillwater River Recreation Trail details or information about the rides, should contact Rachel.Brand@metroparks. (North). Meet in the parking lot at 100 E. contact Officer Zimmerman at (937) 275- org or (937) 564-5431. Reservations National Rd.(U.S. 40 and State Route 48 in PARK ex. 1416. requested; walk-ins welcome. Youth 14 - 17 Englewood, north of the dam). We will ride must be accompanied by an adult. For more WoLF CReeK biKeWay (W) through Jake Grossnickle Park (9 miles). information and to register, call (937) 277- Sat, aPR 2, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6203 6208 4374 or register online. Age: 14Y and up. 8 Sat, May 14, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6209 RECREATIONAL TRAILS, Wolf Creek Bikeway, GReat MiaMi RiveR biKeWay (C) tWin vaLLey tRaiL Ohio Bike Route 38 Sat, May 28, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM Join us for a bike ride on the Wolf Creek WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, baCKPaCKinG tRiP Wegerzyn Parking Lot, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. Bikeway. Meet in the parking lot behind Rob’s FRi, aPR 15, 8:00 aM - Sun, aPR 17, Join us for a bike ride rain or shine on the Restaurant, 705 Arlington Rd. in Brookville. 12:00 PM Great Miami River Bikeway. Meet at 1301 We will ride toward Verona (11 miles). GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Main Park E. Siebenthaler Ave. (Wegerzyn Gardens Office, 6675 Conservancy Rd. WoLF CReeK biKeWay (W) MetroPark). We will be riding to the Join the Outdoor Recreation Department Sat, aPR 9, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM Radvansky Bridge (near Fishburg Rd) (16 as it hits the Twin Valley Trail for 3 days of RECREATIONAL TRAILS, Wolf Creek Bikeway, miles). 6211 backpacking. This is an ideal trip for the Ohio Bike Route 38 newcomer who has just taken Backpacking Join us for a bike ride on the Wolf Creek (FRee) diSCoveRy biKe Ride Basics and is looking to take the next step Bikeway. Meet in the parking lot behind Join us for discovery ride with a naturalist towards getting out on his or her own. Rob’s Restaurant, 705 Arlington Rd. in guide. Binoculars will be provided for this Equipment is available upon request. you Brookville. We will ride toward Trotwood (14 non-typical bike ride with frequent stops MuSt attend the pre-trip meeting on april miles). 6204 showcasing some of the cultural and natural 6. Registration is required and limited, so CReeKSide biKeWay history along our bike trails. Reservations please call (937) 277-4374. Age: 14Y and up. Sat, aPR 16, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6205 required and limited; call (937) 277-4178 or Fees: $50 6411 Sat, May 21, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM 6210 register online. Age: 14Y and up. 8

EASTWOOD METROPARK, Last Parking Lot, Mon, aPR 11, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM 6478 Red RiveR GoRGe 1385 Harshman Rd. ISLAND METROPARK, Overflow Parking Lot, 101 baCKPaCKinG tRiP FoR WoMen Join us for a bike ride rain or shine on the E. Helena St. FRi, aPR 29, 12:00 PM - Sun, May 1, Creekside Bikeway; Use the entrance at FRi, aPR 22, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM 6477 8:00 PM 1385 Harshman Rd. at the traffic light. Meet RECREATIONAL TRAILS, Wolf Creek Bikeway, COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Cox House in the last parking lot. We will ride to the Meet at bike trail parking on Shiloh Springs Road Parking Lot, 6733 Springboro Pk. Greene County Line (12 miles). near the corner of Diamond Mill Road. The Red River Gorge is a unique and Mad RiveR biKeWay scenic natural area within the Daniel Boone intRo to SMaRt CyCLinG National Forest in Kentucky. Known for its Sat, aPR 23, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM EASTWOOD METROPARK, Last Parking Lot, tHu, aPR 28, 6:00 PM-8:30 PM FIVE RIVERS ST. CLAIR BUILDING, Outdoor abundant natural stone arches, unusual 1385 Harshman Rd. Recreation Classroom, 224 N. St. Clair St. rock formations, and spectacular sandstone Join us for a bike ride, rain or shine, on the Step One in the Smart Cycling Series is cliffs, the Red is a beautiful place to get Mad River Bikeway. Use the entrance at 1385 a classroom session, taught by League outside. Come join like-minded women Harshman Rd. at the traffic light. Meet in the Certified Instructors, and designed for a weekend backpacking trip. intro to last parking lot. We will ride to Wegerzyn to provide cyclists of all levels better backpacking and backpacking basics Gardens MetroPark (13 miles). 6206 are prerequisites along with a pre-trip knowledge and understanding of how to meeting. For more information or to GReat MiaMi RiveR biKeWay safely and effectively operate your bicycle register, please call (937) 277-4374. Age: 14Y Sat, aPR 30, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM in various situations. Topics will include and up. Fees: $75 6366 RECREATIONAL TRAILS, Great Miami River ride preparation, traffic laws, equipment Bikeway, Ohio Bike Route 25 and clothing, and much more. Intro is a Join us for a bike ride, rain or shine, on the

44 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity

prerequisite for Smart Cycling Basics. For Leave your car in the garage and support bait are provided. For more information or more information and to register call (937) National Bike to Work Day. Ride in on your reservations, call Officer Zimmerman at (937) 277-4374 or register online. Age: 12Y and up. own or with a group to RiverScape for a 277-4823. Walk-ins welcome. Age: 5Y - 15Y. 8 Fees: $10 6390 free pancake breakfast then head to work. intRoduCtion to FiSHinG Live music, cycling-related exhibitors and a Sat, aPR 30, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6212 team challenge are also part of the fun. Full SMaRt CyCLinG baSiCS POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 Sat, aPR 30, 9:00 aM-3:00 PM details are available at www.metroparks.org/ Frytown Rd. FIVE RIVERS ST. CLAIR BUILDING, Outdoor biketowork. Age: 1Y and up. 6325 8 Recreation Classroom, 224 N. St. Clair St. CaStinG Smart Cycling Basics, part two of the cycling Sat, May 7, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6214 series, takes the knowledge gained in Intro POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 FiSHinG Frytown Rd. and puts it to use on the bike. This hands- FLy FiSHinG FoR baSS and on class will teach riders maneuvering, bLueGiLL Knot tyinG signaling and riding skills to make them more Mon, MaR 28, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM Sat, May 14, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6215 competent and comfortable riding on the FIVE RIVERS ST. CLAIR BUILDING, Outdoor POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 streets and trails of the Miami Valley. intro Recreation Classroom, 224 N. St. Clair St. Frytown Rd. to Smart Cycling is a prerequisite. Helmets The Miami Valley is loaded with great bass FiSHinG SKiLLS and bicycles required. Call (937) 277-4374 to and bluegill fishing opportunities on our Sat, May 21, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6216 register. Age: 12Y and up. Fees: $20 6381 local streams, ponds and lakes. Learn about POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 the techniques, gear and flies needed to Frytown Rd. intRo to biKe CoMMutinG catch these fun sport fish on a fly rod. Fly GRaduation tue, May 3, 6:00 PM-8:30 PM fishing experience is recommended but Sat, May 28, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM 6217 FIVE RIVERS ST. CLAIR BUILDING, Recreation not required. This is a classroom session. POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Farm, 4790 Classroom, 224 N. St. Clair St. Reservations requested, walk-ins welcome, Frytown Rd. Introduction to bicycle commuting goes over or register online. For more information and what is involved to get you biking to work, to register call (937) 277-4374. Age: 14Y and (FRee) niGHt FiSHinG aCtivitieS class, the store, or a favorite restaurant. up. Fees: $5 6326 8 FRi, May 6 - Sat, Jun 4, 10:00 PM-2:00 This lecture-style class will include bike aM terminology, commuting equipment, and (FRee) tRy FLy FiSHinG! Every Friday and Saturday through trip and bike preparation. We will also Have you ever wanted to learn how to cast September 30, enjoy evening fishing. Please discuss traffic laws, hazards encountered a fly rod? Join us to see if you can entice a note: Occasional boat races at Eastwood on the road, safe-riding skills, and proper fish to bite and catch a fish on fly. No fishing MetroPark Lake may affect night fishing route planning. For more information or to license required. Instructor is available for schedule. Bring flashlight or lantern. Use register, please call (937) 277-4374 or register questions and will teach basic techniques lake entrance. No reservations required. For online. Age: 12Y and up. Fees: $5 6397 8 in a controlled and safe environment. questions, call the main park number, (937) Equipment is available on a first-come, first- 275-PARK (7275) weekdays. (FRee) voLunteeR: biKe to served basis. Reservations requested, walk- WoRK day oRientation ins welcome or register online. For more eaStWood LaKe 6219 tue, May 10, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM information or to register, please call (937) EASTWOOD METROPARK, Eastwood Lake, 1401 WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, 277-4374. Age: 14Y and up. 8 Harshman Rd. Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East tHu, aPR 7, 4:00 PM-7:00 PM 6502 PoSSuM CReeK MetRoPaRK 6220 Siebenthaler Ave. CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Cedar Lake, POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Fishing Ponds Refuel yourself at the 55th anniversary 7800 E. Shull Rd. Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. of National Bike to Work Day. Volunteer tHu, May 5, 4:00 PM-7:00 PM 6324 opportunities are available Thursday, COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Outdoor May 19th and Friday, May 20th. To learn Venues, 6733 Springboro Pk. FitneSS & HeaLtH more, please attend the Bike to Work Day (FRee) HiKe FoR tHe HeaLtH oF it! Volunteer Orientation. Refreshments will (FRee) HooKed on FiSHinG, not Hike for a healthier lifestyle in the great be served. Reservations requested; walk-ins on dRuGS SeRieS: outdoors! Hikes take place every Saturday welcome. For details, please contact Rachel. A MetroParks Ranger will teach children and at 2:00 PM. Each hike will be about 3 miles [email protected] or (937) 564-5431. young adults the fundamentals of fishing and move at a comfortable, brisk pace. Age: 14Y and up. 8 6199 and good decision-making skills. This is a Terrain will vary with the site, and some is five-week class, Saturdays April 30 through rugged. Hikers who complete 10 hikes will (FRee) nationaL biKe to WoRK May 28. Receive free gear for attending all receive a Five Rivers MetroParks Health day PanCaKe bReaKFaSt classes. Sponsored by Safe Kids of Dayton. Hike ball cap. For general Health Hike FRi, May 20, 6:00 aM-9:30 aM No tobacco use during class. Students questions, call (937) 277-4374 weekdays, or RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, Festival Plaza, 111 E. must stay with an adult during the program; for the complete schedule, visit Monument Ave. five students per adult. Fishing poles and www.metroparks.org/HikeHealth. HoRSe-dRaWn CaRRiaGe RideS at tHe PnC 2nd StReet MaRKet metroparks.org 45 Guide to e vent aC tivity Sat, MaR 5, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6291 difficult; very hilly in spots. Call Chris Sands WeeKend Pony RideS POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest at (937) 687-0114 for more information. 6517 Sat, aPR 2 - Sun, oCt 30, 10:00 aM- Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. 4:00 PM Sat, MaR 12, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6292 (FRee) tWin CReeK HiKe WitH CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Riding Center, ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter tHe day ton MetRo HiKeRS 8111 E. Shull Rd. Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. Sun, aPR 3, 1:30 PM-4:30 PM Do you have a little wrangler too young for Sat, MaR 19, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6293 TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter horse camp but can’t wait to ride? Join the GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center, Parking Lot, 9688 Eby Road MetroParks Riding Center Staff Saturdays 6910 Boomershine Rd. Enjoy a 7-mile, three-hour hike with and Sundays April 2 through October 30 for Sat, MaR 26, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6294 the Dayton Metro Hikers. This hike is a hand-led pony ride for youngsters 7 and WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, considered rugged; for experienced hikers under. Staff members will lead youth around Wegerzyn Parking Lot, 1301 East Siebenthaler only. Call Chris Sands at (937) 687-0114 for the MetroParks Riding Center Arena for a Ave. more information. 6518 memorable riding experience. Bring your Sat, aPR 2, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6295 camera to capture this unforgettable moment. SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot, (FRee) HiLLS & daLeS HiKe WitH No reservations required. For details, visit 4178 Conference Rd. tHe day ton MetRo HiKeRS www.metroparks.org/RidingCenter or call Sat, aPR 9, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6296 Sun, May 15, 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (937) 274-3120. Age: 1Y - 7Y. Fees: $3 6357 TAYLORSVILLE METROPARK, Blue Heron HILLS & DALES METROPARK, White Oak Shelter, 2000 U.S. 40 Shelter/Parking, 2606 Hilton Dr. HoRSe CaMP FoR aduLtS Sat, aPR 16, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6297 Enjoy a 5-mile, two-hour hike with the Mon, May 2 - FRi, May 6, 6:00 PM-9:00 TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter Dayton Metro Hikers. This hike is considered PM Parking Lot, 9688 Eby Road easy; no hills. Call Chris Sands at (937) 687- CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Riding Center, Sat, aPR 23, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6298 0114 for more information. 6519 8111 E. Shull Rd. ENGLEWOOD METROPARK, Patty Shelter This camp is designed for adults who want Parking Lot, 4361 National Rd. (FRee) tWin vaLLey tRaiL HiKe to learn basic horsemanship and equitation. Sat, aPR 30, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6299 Class is Monday through Friday 6 p.m. to CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Cedar Lake WitH tHe day ton MetRo HiKeRS 9 p.m. Be ready to ride a variety of horses. Shelter/Parking Lot, 7891 E. Shull Rd. Class is limited to five, so register early. Sat, May 7, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6300 Sun, May 29, 10:00 aM-2:00 PM GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Sledding Hill, Students should wear boots with 1-inch COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Education heel, appropriate riding attire such as Center, 6733 Springboro Pk. 6206 Boomershine Rd. Enjoy a 14 mile, 4 hour hike with the Dayton jeans or breeches. Helmets are provided Sat, May 14, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6301 Metro Hikers. This hike is considered and required. For specific camp dates, HUFFMAN METROPARK, Lower Parking Lot, availability, and reservations, call the Riding 4439 Lower Valley Pk. rugged, for experienced hikers only. Call Chris Sands at (937) 687-0114 for more Center at (937) 274-3120. Age: 18Y and up. Sat, May 21, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6302 information. 6520 Fees: $150 6359 POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Argonne Forest Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. Sat, May 28, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 6303 Mountain biKinG EASTWOOD METROPARK, Last Parking Lot, HoRSebaCK RidinG (FRee) voLunteeR: MoMba 1385 Harshman Rd. Monday HoRSebaCK RidinG LeSSonS tRaiL WoRK dayS (FRee) GeRMantoWn HiKe WitH Mon, MaR 7 - Mon, aPR 25, 3:00 PM- Sat, MaR 12, 12:00 PM-4:00 PM 6188 tHe day ton MetRo HiKeRS 4:00 PM Sat, aPR 9, 12:00 PM-4:00 PM 6189 Sat, May 14, 12:00 PM-4:00 PM 6190 Sun, MaR 6, 1:30 PM-4:30 PM CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Riding Center, GERMANTOWN METROPARK, Nature Center 8111 E. Shull Rd. tHu, May 26, 6:00 PM-8:30 PM 6191 Parking Lot, 6910 Boomershine Rd. Attend this eight-week program to obtain a HUFFMAN METROPARK, MoMBA, 4485 Union Rd. Enjoy a 7-mile, three-hour hike with foundation in equitation and horsemanship Help maintain MoMBA, MetroParks’ the Dayton Metro Hikers. This hike is in English and Western riding. Adults mountain bike trail. No experience necessary. considered rugged, for experienced hikers and youth programs available. Must be a Volunteers will have the opportunity to only. Call Chris Sands at (937) 687-0114 for minimum of 8 years of age. Appropriate learn sustainable trail-building techniques, more information. 6516 riding attire and closed toe boots required. Helmets provided. Classes offered at including corridor clearing, contour bench trail construction, creek armoring, and (FRee) SuGaRCReeK HiKe WitH various times and days. Call (937) 274-3120 more. Bring water and work gloves; tools tHe day ton MetRo HiKeRS for times and dates and other information. Age: 8Y and up. Fees: $160 6349 and instruction provided. Meet at the picnic Sun, MaR 20, 1:30 PM-3:00 PM tables next to the parking lot. Reservations SUGARCREEK METROPARK, Parking Lot - 4178 requested; walk-ins welcome. Youth 14-17 Conference Rd. must be accompanied by an adult. For details Enjoy a 5-mile, 2.5-hour hike with the Dayton and to register, call (937) 277-4374 or register Metro Hikers. This hike is considered online. Age: 14Y and up. 8

46 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity

(FRee) youtH Mtb RaCe SeRieS information and to register, contact (937) Mon, May 23 - Mon, auG 15, 5:30 PM- 277-4374. Age: 12Y and up. Fees: $5 8:00 PM Mon, May 9, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM 6322 HUFFMAN METROPARK, MoMBA, 4485 Union WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Rd. Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East Join us for a series of races for youth age 8 Siebenthaler Ave. to 16. Race alongside fellow young riders as tue, May 24, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM 6364 you gain skills while hitting up a loop trail at FIVE RIVERS ST. CLAIR BUILDING, Outdoor MoMBA, MetroParks mountain bike area Recreation Classroom, 224 N. St. Clair St. at Huffman MetroPark. Races take place Mondays, May 23, June 20, July 18, and Aug (FRee) tRy KayaKinG! 15. Racing will be low-key with an emphasis tHu, May 12, 4:00 PM-7:00 PM on fun. Snacks will be provided post race. EASTWOOD METROPARK, Blue Hole, 1401 Bikes and helmets are required. For more Harshman Road information and to register, call (937) 277-4374 Come try a kayak and see if it is something tHe rIDINg CeNter or register online. Age: 8Y - 16Y. 6392 8 you would like to learn more about in the at CarrIage HILL metropark future. An introduction to the boat and proper safety gear will be offered, and you Come visit our riding center oRienteeRinG will have the opportunity to try different offering seasonal trail rides, pony intRo to Land naviGation styles of kayaks. It’s a great way to learn rides, lesson packages, clinics and tHu, MaR 10, 6:00 PM-9:00 PM about the sport in a controlled environment. WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, For more information, please call (937) 277- much more! Gift certificates Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East 4374 or register online. 6323 8 are also available. Siebenthaler Ave. To make a reservation and Would you like to learn how to use a map KayaK baSiCS and compass in the backcountry? Do you tue, May 17, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM for more information, call need to dust off some little-used skills? Then EASTWOOD METROPARK, Blue Hole, 1401 (937) 274-3120 or visit this is the program for you. This classroom Harshman Road www.metroparks.org/ridingcenter. session will teach the basic parts and ways During this hands-on class, students will to use maps and compasses. This program become acquainted with equipment and is a prerequisite for Land Navigation Basics. learn basic paddle strokes and concepts Registration is required and limited, so along with safety topics for beginners please call (937) 277-4374 or register online. in recreational kayaking. Equipment is Age: 14Y and up. Fees: $5 6407 8 provided by Five Rivers MetroParks Outdoor Recreation Department. Please Land naviGation baSiCS dress to get wet. Bring water and closed-toe Sat, MaR 19, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM shoes with you. For more information and to TWIN CREEK METROPARK, High View Shelter, register, please contact (937) 277-4374. Age: 9688 Eby Rd 12Y and up. Fees: $40 6528 Are you ready for the next step in the Land Navigation progression? Get out and use (FRee) voLunteeR: PaddLe in map and compass together in this field- tHe PaRK oRientation based program. intro to Land navigation Wed, May 25, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM is a prerequisite for this program. WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Registration is required and limited, so Auditorium Front (joint facility), 1301 East please call (937) 277-4374. Age: 14Y and up. Siebenthaler Ave. Fees: $15 6408 Make a splash this summer by volunteering at Paddle in the Park! Volunteer opportunities are available Friday, June 3, PaddLinG and Saturday, June 4. Without the help of intRo to KayaKinG dedicated volunteers, events such as this Intro to Kayaking is the first step in our wouldn’t be possible. To learn more, please paddle-sports progression. You will be attend the Paddle in the Park Volunteer introduced to various equipment selection, Orientation. Refreshments will be served. ranges for equipment, categories of paddle- Reservations requested; walk-ins welcome. sports, trip planning, navigation, and general For more information and to register, please locations of where to paddle locally and contact Rachel Brand at Rachel.Brand@ regionally. It is a good way to ease into metroparks.org or (937) 564-5431. Age: 14Y learning in a systematic way. For more and up. 6200 8

metroparks.org 47 Guide to e vent aC tivity

professional. You or your child will learn RoWinG the correct way to fall, skate forward, stop FiSHinG LeaRn-to-RoW WitH GdRa forward, skate backwards and glide on two (FRee) KidS’ FiSHinG deRby Mon, May 16, - Sun, auG 21, 6:00 PM- feet. $5 for lesson and includes the use of Sat, May 7, 10:00 aM-3:00 PM 8:00 PM ice skates. Call (937) 278-2607 for details. POSSUM CREEK METROPARK, Fishing Ponds Parking Lot, 4790 Frytown Rd. ISLAND METROPARK, Island Boat House, 130 E. Weather permitting. Fees: $56385 Helena St. Free fishing program for the kids. Register

Learn the fundamentals of rowing with on site the day of the program from 10:00 the Greater Dayton Rowing Association! AM to 11:00 AM, fishing from 11:00 AM to Four-week class for adults age 18 and up will 2:00 PM, prizes awarded from 2:00 PM cover everything needed to row confidently speCIaL eVeNts to 3:00 PM. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes and independently. Classes take place at awarded for the largest catfish, bass, the Island MetroPark boat house and on the enteRtainMent crappie, and bluegill. Two age categories: Great Miami River. Graduates are invited to (FRee) St. PatRiCK’S day at tHe Minnows - 2 to 7 years and Lunkers - 8 to 15 become members of GDRA, offering year- MaRKet years. Hotdogs and drinks available for the round activities on the water and indoor Sat, MaR 12, 9:00 aM-1:00 PM kids. Age: 2Y - 15Y. 6375 conditioning during the winter. Visit PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. www.daytonrowing.org and Dayton Rowing Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the PNC 2nd on Facebook for details. 6543 Street Market! This year’s event features FitneSS & HeaLtH live Irish music followed by exciting dance MaKe a diFFeRenCe...Sav e a demonstrations from the Celtic Academy of Irish Dance. Call (937) 228-2088 for more LiFe 5K RaCe/WaLK SKatinG Sat, aPR 2, 9:00 aM-12:00 PM information. 6202 dJ SKateS: aWeSoMe eiGHtieS WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, FRi, MaR 4, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM Wegerzyn Parking Lot, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. (FRee) RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, MetroParks Ice uRban niGHtS Participate in this 5K Run/Walk to benefit Rink, 111 E. Monument Ave. FRi, May 13, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM Suicide Prevention Center, Inc. Your Skate back in time to the sounds of the RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, 111 E. Monument participation in this race, along with your Ave. 1980s at MetroParks Ice Rink. DJs will donation, will help Suicide Prevention Come see RiverScape MetroPark come be spinning beats live with music from Center serve the crisis needs of the people alive at Urban Nights! Spring is here, and Madonna, Queen, Blondie, Duran Duran of the Miami Valley. Registration is $10. what better way to get outside and enjoy it and more. Grab your leg warmers and your Call Jim Marks at (937) 226-0818 for more than by celebrating Dayton’s urban vibrancy. hammer pants to skate through the eighties! information. Fees: $10 6531 RiverScape MetroPark is sure to add Admission fee includes use of ice skates. excitement to an already electrifying event Call (937) 278-2607 for more information. (FRee) with eclectic music, food by Skyline, and WeGeRZyn GaRdenS Fees: $5 6386 more! Explore downtown and enjoy all the WaLKFeSt

sights and sounds of this citywide party. For Sat, aPR 16, 9:00 aM-4:00 PM StaR-Late SKateS more information call (937) 274-0126. 6532 WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, Sat, MaR 5, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM 6387 Wegerzyn Parking Lot, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. This outdoor community opportunity is FRi, MaR 11, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM 6388 (FRee) tab-a-PuLL-ooZa presented by Purple Penguins Volksmarch Sat, MaR 12, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM 6389 Sat, May 21, 8:00 aM-3:00 PM RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, MetroParks Ice PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. Walking Club for the beauty of nature and Rink, 111 E. Monument Ave. Bring your aluminum can pull-tabs to the health of walking. Start anytime between 9 What better way to spend a Friday or PNC 2nd Street Market to help raise funds am and 1 pm and finish by 4 pm. For more Saturday night than by skating near the river, for the Ronald McDonald House Charities information contact Helga Slade at (937) under a beautifully lit canopy. Enjoy your of the Miami Valley. Call (937) 228-2088 for 429-3946. 6523 evening drinking hot chocolate, warming up more information. 6201 by our outdoor fireplaces, and taking in the day ton PeaCe aCCoRdS 5K sights and sounds of downtown! Bring family, (FRee) SuMMeR ConCeRt SeRieS WaLK Run friends, or just yourself to skate MetroParks Sat, May 28, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Sat, aPR 30, 9:00 aM-11:00 aM Ice Rink. Admission is $5 and includes the RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, 111 E. Monument RECREATIONAL TRAILS, Great Miami River Rec use of ice skates. Call (937) 278-2607 for Ave. Trail, Ohio Bike Route 25 more information. Fees: $5 Free series of concerts on Saturday nights This outdoor recreation opportunity is throughout the summer. For bands, dates or sponsored by the Dayton International FundaMentaLS oF SKatinG more information, please visit the web site Peace Museum as a family fun event Sun, MaR 6, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM metroparks.org/RiverScape or call (937) 274- fundraiser to support their educational RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, MetroParks Ice 0126. Chairs fill quickly; bring a lawn chair for programs. For information call (937) 227-3223 Rink Lesson Area seating. Weather dependent. or e-mail [email protected] Drop in for one lesson or attend each week. Fees: $20 6529 One-hour lessons are taught by a seasoned

48 metroparks.org Guide to e vent aC tivity Guide to e vent aC tivity deRby day daSH PaddLinG 7055 or e-mail [email protected]. Age: Sat, May 7, 8:00 aM-12:00 PM 18Y and up. 6347 RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, RiverScape (FRee) PaddLe in tHe PaRK MetroPark, 111 E. Monument Ave. Sat, Jun 4, 10:00 aM-4:00 PM (FRee) voLunteeR: StiCK This outdoor community opportunity is EASTWOOD METROPARK, Eastwood Lake, 1401 Harshman Rd. SCuLPtuRe voLunteeR WitH sponsored by Life Essentials, Inc., a non-profit PatRiCK douGHeRty organization that provides services to older Grab your friends and visit Eastwood Mon, aPR 4 - FRi, aPR 22, 8:00 aM- adults and persons with mental illness. This MetroPark for the 12th annual Paddle in the Park. Paddle in the Park is a partnership 5:00 PM 5K race is fun for all ages with a special Youth WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, North mile run and Tot Trot. $25 registration. For between Five Rivers MetroParks, Whitewater Warehouse and a variety Plaza, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. details, call (937) 586-0545. Fees: $25 6530 of other paddling organizations. The World-renowned stick work artist Patrick event will allow the public to learn about Dougherty will be creating an original paddle-sports, meet canoe and kayak sculpture at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. GaRdeninG & manufacturers, try any style boat for free Volunteers are needed during March to LandSCaPinG and more. All ages and skills levels are harvest branches. Volunteers can work welcome! Get more info at metroparks.org/ directly with Dougherty to construct this (FRee) MayFaiR 2011 PLant SaLe pip or call (937) 277-4374. 6552 compelling sculpture from April 4-22. Sat, aPR 30, 10:00 aM-4:00 PM 6255 Weekday April Volunteer shifts will be 8 Sun, May 1, 12:00 PM-3:00 PM 6257 aM-12 noon and 1-5 pm; weekend volunteer WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK, shifts will be available during April 9-10. For Wegerzyn Center, 1301 East Siebenthaler Ave. VoLUNteerIsm more information, contact Bob Butts at (937) Lovely plant offerings include stunning 276-7055 or at [email protected]. Age: perennials, annuals and herbs for FaRMinG 18Y and up. 6177 companion planting, or simply to enhance (FRee) dRaFt HoRSe dRivinG your landscape, and vegetables for your SCHooL kitchen. Also featured are beautiful hanging Sat, MaR 5 - Sun, MaR 6, 10:00 aM- GReen LivinG baskets just in time for Mother’s Day. Hours 4:00 PM (FRee) adoPt-a-PaRK are Saturday, April 30, 10 until 4, Sunday, CARRIAGE HILL METROPARK, Farm, 7891 E. Sat, aPR 16, 9:00 aM-11:30 aM May 1, noon until 3. For more information, Shull Rd. EASTWOOD METROPARK, 1385 Harshman Rd. visit metroparks.org/plantsales or call (937) For this two-part class, participants will be Celebrate Earth Day by participating in 277-6545. taught the correct methods for harnessing Adopt-A-Park, Five Rivers MetroParks and driving draft horses. For this class, annual cleanup. Volunteers will be assigned (FRee) WiLdFLoWeR and native familiarity with horses is required and to a crew that will work a section of the PLant SaLe participants must be over 18 years of age. river corridors. Gloves, trash bags and lunch Sat, aPR 30, 10:00 aM-2:00 PM Participants must put in over 30 hours of are provided. For more information or to COX ARBORETUM METROPARK, Kettering assisted driving time upon completion of register, visit www.metroparks.org/adopt or Learning Lab, 6733 Springboro Pk. the class. Text books will be available for call (937) 275-PARK. Age: 14Y and up. 6551 Browse the selection of unique wildflowers purchase. Reservations are required and and native plants and get advice from limited. Call (937) 277-4834 or register the Wildflower Volunteer Group to find online. Age: 18Y and up. 6527 8 the plants most suitable for your garden. All of the plants offered in this sale are propagated or rescued from local areas GaRdeninG & slated for development. For more details, call (937) 434-9005. 6346 LandSCaPinG (FRee) voLunteeR: RiveRSCaPe GaRdeneRS GReen LivinG tue, Feb 8 - Mon, aPR 4, 9:00 aM- (FRee) tRee SeedLinG GiveaWay 11:00 aM FRi, aPR 15, 11:00 aM-3:00 PM 6221 RIVERSCAPE METROPARK, 111 E. Monument Sat, aPR 16, 8:00 aM-3:00 PM 6222 Ave. PNC 2ND STREET MARKET, 600 E. 2nd St. We are looking for volunteers to assist with Celebrate Earth Day early by stopping gardening tasks at RiverScape MetroParks’ by and getting your tree seedlings while spectacular gardens on Mondays, Tuesdays supplies last. This project is brought to you Thursdays and Fridays from 9:00 AM to with the support of the Montgomery and 11:00 AM. Learn how to plant, prune and Miami County Soil and Water Conservation care for a wide variety of plants from Districts and Rush Creek Gardens. Call (937) experts and make friends, too! For more 228-2088 for more information. information, contact Bob Butts at (937) 276-

metroparks.org 49 Guide to Event Activity ACRES FISHING - PONDS/LAKES FISHING - RIVERS ICE FISHING LEVEL TRAILS - FAIRLY WALKING HIKING TRAILS - VARYING BRIDLE TRAILS RIDING CENTERS OPPORTUNITIES VOLUNTEER PICNICKING PICNIC SHELTERS SHELTERS RESERVABLE SLEDDING ICE SKATING BIKINGMOUNTAIN BIKE HUB CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING BIRD STATIONS FEEDING CENTERS VISITOR/EDUCATION GIFT SHOPS CAMPING W/PERMIT PUBLIC WALKS RENTALS/WEDDINGS FACILITY CANOEING - RIVER/LAKE BOATING TRAILS RECREATION DEMOS & WORKSHOPS VISITS FARM GROUP TOURS DISPLAYS HORTICULTURAL CONTROL DAMS FLOOD PLAYGROUND PETS WELCOME BACKPACKING HISTORICAL FEATURES Aullwood Garden 31 Carriage Hill 944 COX ARBORETUM 182 Eastwood 437 Englewood 1,956 Germantown 1,534 Hills & Dales 51 Huffman 283 Island 35 PNC 2ND STREET MARKET Possum Creek 556 Recreation Trails - River Corridors 2,628 RiverScape 1.4 Sugarcreek 597 Taylorsville 1,312 Twin Creek 972 Wegerzyn Gardens 46 Wesleyan/ 55 Adventure Central ACRES BOATING BIKE HUB SLEDDING GIFT SHOPS ICE FISHING FARM VISITS FARM PICNICKING ICE SKATING PLAYGROUND BRIDLE TRAILS BACKPACKING GROUP TOURS PUBLIC WALKS PETS WELCOME FISHING - RIVERS RIDING CENTERS PICNIC SHELTERS MOUNTAIN BIKINGMOUNTAIN RECREATION TRAILS RECREATION CAMPING W/PERMIT HISTORICAL FEATURES RESERVABLE SHELTERS RESERVABLE DEMOS & WORKSHOPS FISHING - PONDS/LAKES BIRD STATIONS FEEDING FLOOD CONTROL DAMS FLOOD CANOEING - RIVER/LAKE CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING HIKING TRAILS - VARYING HIKING TRAILS - VARYING HORTICULTURAL DISPLAYS HORTICULTURAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES VOLUNTEER FACILITY RENTALS/WEDDINGS FACILITY VISITOR/EDUCATION CENTERS VISITOR/EDUCATION WALKING TRAILS - FAIRLY LEVEL TRAILS - FAIRLY WALKING Electrical motors under 42lbs. thrust permi’ed Hand-powered boats on Argonne Lake only. No vehicle access. Wheelchair accessible (certain trails). Weddings only. Seasonal - winter. grow with your neighbors The comunity gardening plots and find out how you can around the Dayton region start a garden in your own start taking reservations this neighborhood when you March! Are you interested in visit metroparks.org/GWYN becoming more self-sufficient or contact Luci Beachell at and healthy by growing your (937) 276-7053. own vegetables? Learn more about community gardens

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winter 2010–2011 parkWaYs Go to www.metroparks.org/parkways to view this ParkWays publication online. Time For Your Close Up! Can you figure out where this is? Maybe at Eastwood MetroPark, the Butterfly House at Cox Arboretum, or the Discovery Garden? skating returns RiverScape MetroPark’s outdoor ice rink is bigger Take a guess and then visit the spot and see how big the world of MetroParks and better than ever! See full story on pages 20–23. aCtION-PaCkeD sPeaker serIes LINeD UP see PaGes 16–17 fIGHtING tHe eMeraLD asH BOrer see PaGes 8–11 can be. (answer upside down below) Guess the spot!

Get the lowdown on activities going on in your MetroParks! Connect with us on Facebook at

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ParkWays is mailed to every resident of Montgomery County. Due to delivery specifications, we are unable to remove individual recipients from our mailing list at this time. If you are not interested in this publication, please pass it along to a friend or recycle the booklet.