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Apr
27
Written by:
news editor
4/27/2009 1:00 AM
04/27/09 Visitors are invited to join a wildflower hike at Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve on Saturday, May 2.
Wildflower Hike at Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve
Event part of the family-friendly Natural Areas Discovery Series
NEWARK, OH - Spring provides a variety of pastel blooms in Ohio's woodlands. Visitors are invited to join a wildflower hike at Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve, part of the Natural Areas Discovery Series, on Saturday, May 2 at 10 a.m.
A naturalist-led hike will take participants on the preserve's Blackhand Trail, which is an old railroad bed converted to trail. It winds through a spectacular, narrow east-west gorge cut by the Licking River through Black Hand sandstone. Hikers will discover a variety of native wildflowers while learning more about the folklore surrounding the area.
Blackhand Gorge, a 956-acre state nature preserve in Licking County, is rich in natural as well as early Ohio history. Sections of the Ohio-Erie Canal towpaths and locks can be seen along the river. Its extensive trail system also features the only bike trail to be found in an Ohio state nature preserve. For more information, call 740-420-3445.
Sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, the Natural Areas Discovery Series features guided hikes, interpretive activities and outdoor programs. The next events will be held on Saturday, May 9 at Lakeside Daisy State Nature Preserve in Ottawa County and Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve in Fairfield County.
Children who hike with their families during the special events and throughout the year can receive credit towards the ODNR Explore the Outdoors Hike a Trail activity. Explore the Outdoors is a hands-on family program that gives Ohio children the opportunity to reunite with nature, improve their physical and emotional health and discover the rewards of becoming environmental stewards. Program information and downloadable activity guides can be found at www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com.
To learn more about Ohio's 134 state nature preserves and 14 state scenic rivers, visit www.ohiodnr.com/dnap.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
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For further information, contact:
Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Natural Areas and Preserves
614. 265. 6520
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
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