ESTUARY EDUCATION SERIES CONTINUES AT OLD WOMAN CREEK
NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
Participants explore the estuary, learn about its ecology, and gain tools to protect streams and Lake Erie
Huron, OH - Ohioans are encouraged to join Division of Wildlife staff, guest naturalists, and scientists for fun-filled and free educational explorations of Old Woman Creek, a unique and valuable protected Lake Erie estuary. April programs provide opportunities to learn wildflower identification, help control invasive plants, or discover the region’s geologic history. Visit www.oldwomancreek.org for a full calendar of events including guided hikes, canoe tours, and artist-led nature sketch classes.
Every river or creek in northern Ohio that flows directly into Lake Erie has an area near its mouth where lake and stream water meet and mix. This mixing area is called an estuary. Estuaries like Old Woman Creek protect the health of the Lake by removing pollutants from the water flowing through them. These valuable ecosystems buffer uplands from flooding and protect coastal communities from severe storms. Home to a wide variety of wildlife and plants, estuaries are essential to $680 million fishing and nearly $6 billion tourism industries along Ohio’s coast. Human decisions and actions throughout the watershed impact estuaries, our Great Lake, and ultimately the region’s economy.
April Programs:
What Bloom’s First? April 5, Saturday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm:
Learn to identify early common wildflowers of the woods and about flower folklore on the trail with Breann Hohman, Firelands Coastal Tributaries Watershed Coordinator, Erie Soil & Water Conservation District.
Help Native Plants, April 13, Sunday, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm:
Join a staff guide to tackle the invasive plant species garlic mustard after a brief introduction to invasive species. Poison Ivy is in the area, long sleeves, pants, and boots or sturdy shoes required.
Sketch the Seasons at Old Woman Creek, April 19, Saturday 10:00 am -12:00 pm:
Join this group for seasonal adventures in sketching plants and wildlife of the estuary. Rain or shine! All skill levels welcome.
Geology of the Old Woman Creek Watershed, April 26, Saturday, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm:
How did the Berlin Heights gorge form? What is the Berea Escarpment? Find out when Dr. Charles Herdendorf discusses the geologic setting of the Old Woman Creek watershed and Lake Erie.
Programs begin at Old Woman Creek Visitor Center, 2514 Cleveland Road East Huron unless otherwise noted.