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May | June | July

Leaf Icon Friday, May 02, 7:30 a.m.
FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS
New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Pat Rydquist every Friday morning through May 23 for spring walks along the Tuscarawas River, a major migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. At the end of the series, participants will receive a checklist and final tally of the birds seen this season. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, May 02, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
SERVICE DAY: GARLIC MUSTARD PULL
Help control the invasive garlic mustard, which out-competes native species in the understory of forests and woodlands. Garlic mustard begins growth in early spring and ends later in the season than most native species, allowing it to shade out native wildflowers and out-compete native seedlings. Please dress for off-trail work. Bring a hat, work gloves, pruning shears or scissors, a snack and water. All participants under 18 must have a student waiver filled out by a parent or guardian prior to participating. For more information and to volunteer, contact Laura Franchetti at lfranchetti@summitmetroparks.org or 330-864-3006. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, May 02, 7 p.m.
LIVING NEAR HUMANS
Learn about wildlife adaptations with Naturalist Nicki Schneider. Find out how animals cope in the natural environment and live near humans. A short hike will follow. FASN

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 03, 8 a.m.
BIRD WALK
Join Naturalist Mike Greene to hike north to Vanderhoof Road and back while searching for migrating and resident birds. Total distance is just under five miles. Part of the hike is considered universally accessible and is good for Spree For All credit. Bring binoculars and field guides, if possible. T/Franklin

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 03, 10 a.m.
NATURE & HISTORY ALONG THE TOWPATH
Join Naturalist Mike Greene to hike south to Center Road and back while discovering some of the rich history of PPG Barberton and the Lime Lakes. Total distance is just under five miles. T/Vanderhoof

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 03, 7:30 p.m.
WOODCOCK WALTZ
Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to watch the aerial dances of male woodcocks and listen for their ‘preents’ as they hope to win the hearts of waiting females. HH/Top O' the World

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 04, 9 a.m.
BIRDS AND BRUNCH
Are you interested in learning the basics of bird identification? Join Naturalist Meghan Doran for brunch and birding on Seneca Trail. Please bring a dish to share. Coffee and tea will be provided. REGISTRATION BEGINS 4/29: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 04, 1 p.m.
BIKE THROUGH TIME
Join volunteer Paul Goodwin and Maureen McGinty, chief of interpretive programming and education, to learn about the history of Akron. This ride may follow streets as well as the Towpath Trail. For information about the destination and mileage, call 330-865-8065 starting April 27. T/Mustill Store

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 04, 2 p.m.
WILDFLOWER WALK
Join volunteer naturalist Alice Philips to search for fabulous springtime flowers, including our state wildflower, the large white trillium. ONW/Barn

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 07, 7 p.m.
RAVINE HIKE
Look for wildflowers, birds and amphibians while hiking 1.8 miles with Naturalist Mike Greene. SR/Lone Spruce

Leaf Icon Friday, May 09, 7:30 a.m.
FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS
New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Pat Rydquist every Friday morning through May 23 for spring walks along the Tuscarawas River, a major migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. At the end of the series, participants will receive a checklist and final tally of the birds seen this season. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, May 09, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
SERVICE DAY: GARLIC MUSTARD PULL
Help control the invasive garlic mustard, which out-competes native species in the understory of forests and woodlands. Garlic mustard begins growth in early spring and ends later in the season than most native species, allowing it to shade out native wildflowers and out-compete native seedlings. Please dress for off-trail work. Bring a hat, work gloves, pruning shears or scissors, a snack and water. All participants under 18 must have a student waiver filled out by a parent or guardian prior to participating. For more information and to volunteer, contact Laura Franchetti at lfranchetti@summitmetroparks.org or 330-864-3006. ONW/Barn

Leaf Icon Friday, May 09, 7 p.m.
BIKE THROUGH TIME
Join volunteer Paul Goodwin and Maureen McGinty, chief of interpretive programming and education, to learn about the history of Akron. This ride may follow streets as well as the Towpath Trail. For information about the destination and mileage, call 330-865-8065 starting May 2. T/Memorial Parkway

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.
EXTENDED HIKE
Get a good workout and learn some facts about the area on this four-mile hike on the Deer Run Trail. Spring will be in full swing, and there will be plenty to see. Expect difficult terrain. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.
SPRING WILDFLOWERS
Ever wonder what types of flowers are popping up in the woods around you? Join Naturalist Danusia Casteel for this one-mile hike and learn to identify some spring wildflowers. Meet in the parking lot. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
BARK IN THE PARK: PLEDGE WALK & PET EXPO
Form a "pack" and collect pledges and walk for the Humane Society of Greater Akron. Groups and individuals welcome. Event includes a pledge walk, pet expo, prizes, demos and much more. For information, visit www.summithumane.org or call 330-657-2010 x103. GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 10, 3 p.m.
SWALLOW SWARM
Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist on this stroll to the Oxbow Overlook to see nesting swallows and their beautiful aerial performances. Program good for Spree For All credit. CVS/Overlook

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 11, 8 a.m.
BIRD WALK
Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist for this bird walk through Deep Lock Quarry and Lock 28. Total distance is about 1.5 miles. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 11, 2 p.m.
MOTHER EARTH HIKE
Celebrate Mother’s Day while exploring Mother Earth with Naturalist Mike Greene. Hike through part of the arboretum, then the Cherry Lane and Fernwood trails. Part of the hike is considered universally accessible and is good for Spree For All credit. FASN

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 14, 7 p.m.
WILDFLOWER WALK
Join volunteer naturalist Alice Philips to search for fabulous springtime flowers, including our state wildflower, the large white trillium. CVS/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 15, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
SERVICE DAY: GARLIC MUSTARD PULL
Help control the invasive garlic mustard, which out-competes native species in the understory of forests and woodlands. Garlic mustard begins growth in early spring and ends later in the season than most native species, allowing it to shade out native wildflowers and out-compete native seedlings. Please dress for off-trail work. Bring a hat, work gloves, pruning shears or scissors, a snack and water. All participants under 18 must have a student waiver filled out by a parent or guardian prior to participating. For more information and to volunteer, contact Laura Franchetti at lfranchetti@summitmetroparks.org or 330-864-3006. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Friday, May 16, 7:30 a.m.
FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS
New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Pat Rydquist every Friday morning through May 23 for spring walks along the Tuscarawas River, a major migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. At the end of the series, participants will receive a checklist and final tally of the birds seen this season. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m.
BIRD WALK
Join Naturalist Meghan Doran for this hike along the towpath in search of birds and spring wildflowers. Part of the hike is considered universally accessible and is good for Spree For All credit. Bring binoculars. T/Clinton

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m.
PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB WORKSHOP
Bring your camera -- from point-and-shoot to super digital -- and join members of the Metro Parks Photography Club for a nature walk, and get advice from experienced photographers. FASN

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 17, 1 p.m.
BEES, BEES, BEES
Stop by the observation hive to talk about bees with Naturalist Nicki Schneider. How does a colony work together? How do they survive winter? Learn the answers to these and other questions. FASN

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 17, 2 p.m.
WILDFLOWERS FOR KIDS
Kids, ages 6 to 12, join Naturalist Danusia Casteel to learn how to identify common spring wildflowers. Participants will put together a book and then hike along Cherry Lane Trail. Includes a take-home craft. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 17, 8 p.m.
MOONLIGHT BIKE RIDE: THE FLOWER MOON
Pedal 15 miles on the Towpath Trail with a volunteer and then enjoy a campfire back at Deep Lock. Riders must provide their own bikes, lights and helmets. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on and something to cook over the campfire, like hotdogs or marshmallows. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 18, 8 a.m.
BIRD WALK
Join Naturalist Pat Rydquist for this bird walk through Deep Lock Quarry and Lock 28. Total distance is about 1.5 miles. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 18, 2 p.m.
SPECIAL ACCESS HIKE
Join Naturalist Mike Greene to explore the wetlands and other habitats of the newest part of Liberty Park. Much of this two-hour-long hike will be through areas without established and developed trails, so durable clothing and footwear is recommended. LP/Pond Brook

Leaf Icon Friday, May 23, 7:30 a.m.
FIRESTONE FEATHERS AND FRIENDS
New and experienced birdwatchers can join Naturalist Pat Rydquist every Friday morning through May 23 for spring walks along the Tuscarawas River, a major migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. At the end of the series, participants will receive a checklist and final tally of the birds seen this season. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, May 23, 7 p.m.
SPRING WILDFLOWERS
Are you curious about how to identify those delicate spring wildflowers? Join Naturalist Meghan Doran to discover the tools you’ll need to enjoy the beauty of spring. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 24, 10 a.m.
O’NEIL WOODS HISTORY HIKE
Join Naturalist Danusia Casteel for this 1.8-mile hike of Deer Run Trail and find out who walked these woods before us. Meet at the kiosk. ONW/Trail Lot

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 24, 1 p.m.
KIDS’ FISHING
Kids 15 and under will learn the basics of fishing and then drop a line in Little Turtle Pond. A few rods and reels will be available for use during the program. Bait is provided. Adults must supervise their children but are not permitted to fish. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 25, 10 a.m.
BUGS AND BLOOMS
Take a hike on Spring Hollow Trail with Naturalist Nicki Schneider to explore spring wildflowers and the different insects pollinating and inhabiting them. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Sunday, May 25, 2 p.m.
NATURE REALM HISTORY HIKE
Meet Naturalist Danusia Casteel to learn what the land looked like before it was a park and arboretum. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 28, 10:30 a.m.
KINDEREALM: BEES
Children 3 to 5 join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover the sweet and “stingy” lives of bees. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. REGISTRATION BEGINS 5/22: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, May 28, 7 p.m.
MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: COTSWOLD GARDENS
Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County as Beth Rogers presents a slideshow of the Cotswold gardens of England, and learn about garden design, flower selection and placement. Visit summit.osu.edu/master_gardener for more information. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 29, 10:30 a.m.
KINDEREALM: BEES
Children 3 to 5 join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover the sweet and “stingy” lives of bees. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. REGISTRATION BEGINS 5/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, May 29, 1 p.m.
KINDEREALM: BEES
Children 3 to 5 join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover the sweet and “stingy” lives of bees. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. REGISTRATION BEGINS 5/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, May 30, 10:30 a.m.
KINDEREALM: BEES
Children 3 to 5 join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover the sweet and “stingy” lives of bees. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. REGISTRATION BEGINS 5/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, May 30, 1 p.m.
KINDEREALM: BEES
Children 3 to 5 join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover the sweet and “stingy” lives of bees. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. REGISTRATION BEGINS 5/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, May 30, 7 p.m.
CAMPFIRE SING-ALONG
Sing some American favorites with the musical talents of Kathy Johnson. Bring some marshmallows or hot dogs to cook a half hour early, or stay afterwards to eat. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 31, 10:30 a.m.
HABITAT HIKE
Join Naturalist Meghan Doran for this extended walk through the fascinating habitats of Goodyear Heights Metro Park. We start with a hike of Piney Woods Trail and then stop to eat our brown bag lunches. Our morning ends by walking around Alder Pond. Bring drinking water and lunch. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Saturday, May 31, 10:30 a.m.
KINDEREALM: BEES
Children 3 to 5 join Naturalist Pat Rydquist to discover the sweet and “stingy” lives of bees. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. REGISTRATION BEGINS 5/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Did You Know?

Aromathera-tree
Sassafras trees are best known for the aromatic tea that is made by boiling the bark of their roots.

Free Fish
Many native fish are highly migratory and will move into small headwaters to mate and lay eggs. Dams and culverts can block their movements.


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Metro Parks Contact Info -  975 Treaty Line Road Akron, OH 44313 330-867-5511
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