COLUMBUS, OH -- The old growth forest of Fowler Woods State Nature Preserve is beautiful throughout the year, but it really stands out during the spring and fall. Vibrant wildflowers begin carpeting the forest floor in late March, while a canopy of autumn color makes it one of the finest places for fall color in north-central Ohio. Visitors to this 187-acre preserve in Richland County can meander along boardwalk trails or enjoy a scenic view from its observation tower. These improvements were made possible thanks to Ohioans who contributed to the state's Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off Fund, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"The check-off program provides Ohioans with an opportunity to support ODNR's nature preserves, scenic rivers and endangered species programs by contributing a portion of their state income tax refund," said Sam Speck, ODNR director. "Our state nature preserves rely on the generosity of Ohioans to support important improvements that might not otherwise be possible."
Check-off dollars also enabled the ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves to install interpretive signs along the preserve's trails, highlighting some of its special features. In addition, kickrails were added to the boardwalk, making it more accessible to all visitors. Fowler Woods, considered one of Ohio's premier wildflower woods, is spectacular in the spring. Especially notable is its display of marsh-marigolds in April. Weeks later, the forest floor is blanketed with spring ephemerals, including trillium, violet, Dutchman's breeches, jack-in-the-pulpit, spring beauty and phlox.
The preserve's old growth forest features large stands of beech and maple trees. Several low areas are water-covered most of the year, occupied by large buttonbush swamps. Plants found growing here include royal fern, swamp saxifrage, dwarf ginseng and golden saxifrage. Fowler Woods State Nature Preserve is located 13 miles north of Mansfield in Butler Township on Olivesburg-Fitchville Road. The ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves oversees 127 state nature preserves and 20 state scenic river segments throughout Ohio. For additional information about Fowler Woods State Nature Preserve or the Natural Areas Income Tax Check-off program, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com