Shelter Reservations 419-221-1232 or Register Online

Vernal Pools 101

Hermon Woodlands 485 N. Wapak Road, Lima, OH, United States

Vernal pools are perhaps the most interesting and diverse parts of our forests. A rich ecosystem, bursting with life, that serves as a nursery for countless organisms… and a buffet for others. Join a naturalist to learn about these fascinating pools with presentation in the shelter and then we’ll go explore them! We’ll step gently …

Homeschool Enrichment Class – Osteology (Bone) Lab

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Learn how to identify animal bones through comparative anatomy. Observe key components of bones and categorize common elements in this hands-on exploration.  All materials provided. We will be indoors the majority of the time but will also go on a short hike. Children must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Register by Mar. 9.  

Stories in the Woods

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Children and their adult companion are invited to join us as we read a short story in the woods, take a hike and make a craft to understand more about the book. Come dressed appropriately to spend as much time outdoors. Register by Mar. 17.  

Killdeer Plains Field Trip

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Join a naturalist and the Tri-Moraine Audubon Society to explore some of the 8,000+ acres of wetlands, prairies, and woodlots at Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area as we look for waterfowl and much more! We’ll do some walking, but we will mostly be driving between points of interest. Prepare for the weather and pack a lunch/snacks/beverages. …

Knowing Nature And Neighbors

Ottawa Metro Park 2632 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Meet new people, exercise, get outside - need help with your new year’s resolutions? Join us on a hike and be prepared to share information about yourself as we walk. We’ll answer icebreaker questions and get to know everyone and the natural world a little more. Be prepared for the weather. Register by Mar. 27. …

Feeding Day

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

The Park District maintains several education animals in the McElroy Environmental Education Center, using them throughout the year for nature presentations and programs.  Join the Critter Care volunteers to help (or watch) them clean and feed all our animals on the last Thursday of the month!  

Nature Fools

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Nature fools us often, whether it’s an animal that mimics another or a myth that never went away. See if nature has fooled you and learn what is really going on. Session will be primarily indoors, weather permitting will include a short hike.  Register by Mar. 31.  

Woodcarving: Burning Butterflies

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Butterflies are some of our most beautiful and fascinating creatures! We’ll learn a little about these interesting animals and then, with the assistance of the Lima Area Woodcarvers, we’ll complete a woodburning project. This is a project that can be enjoyed by all skill levels, beginners included. This program is limited to 10 participants, ages …

Tri-Moraine Audubon Society: Family Fun Night

OSU Lima Campus - Visitor/Student Center 3900 Campus Drive, Lima, OH, United States

Join the Tri-moraine Audubon Society for our annual Family Fun Night! Come share the experience with friends of all ages. Several tables of activities will be sponsored by local environmental groups including the Park District.   

Nature Pals: Terrific Turtles

McElroy Environmental Education Center 2355 Ada Road, Lima, OH, United States

Children, ages 3-5, and their adult companion are invited to meet the park district’s resident live turtles.  Weather permitting, we will also hike through the woods.  Please dress appropriately.  Register by Apr. 4.  

Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District