Tour of Headlands Dunes Scheduled for Saturday, September 15

COLUMBUS, OH – A guided tour of Ohio’s best coastal dunes will be held on Saturday, September 15 as part of this year’s Natural Areas Discovery Series, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas & Preserves.

The 25-acre preserve is situated along the coast of Lake Erie in Lake County, and features an array of plants generally found only in the Atlantic Plains region.

The first of three naturalist-led hikes begins at 8 a.m. This hike will explore the variety of birds, including shore birds that rest along the preserve’s beach. Additional hikes will be conducted at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., focusing on the unique vegetation of the dunes.

“This is the time of year when a wide variety of birds begin returning from Canada to their southern homes,” said Steven D. Maurer, chief of the Division of Natural Areas & Preserves. “Headlands Dunes is a great place to see them as they stop to rest and refuel after the long journey across Lake Erie.”

Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve is located west of Fairport Harbor at the north end of State Route 44 and the east end of Headlands Beach State Park. Parking and restrooms are available in the state park. For more information, contact 440-632-3010.

The Natural Areas Discovery Series is sponsored by the Division of Natural Areas & Preserves and features scheduled hikes, interpretive activities and an opportunity for visitors to meet preserve and scenic rivers staff.

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For Further Information Contact:

Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves

(614) 265-6520

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Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations

(614) 265-6860