Newsletter of the

Crawford Park District

Spring 2018

Mastodon Mystery: Crawford County’s Ice Age

The extinction of over 30 species of mega-fauna occurred over 10,000 years ago. Lions, cheetahs, camels, sloths, and mammoths are just some of those that vanished from the Earth during the Pleistocene Epoch. (See page 10 for more information regarding Ohio’s geologic past.) Unfortunately, confirmation of only one extinct mammal has come to light in Crawford County: Mastodons. The following is an overview of the most recent Mastodon finds. In 1971, three brothers were playing in the Brokensword Creek, 1 mile northwest of Sulphur Springs, Ohio. (Isn’t that what kids are supposed to do?) They found what turned out to be two molars from a Mastodon. The molars were sent to OSU for examination. A professor then led a 9-member team to possibly recover more remains. A tusk and other bones were found, including the atlas vertebra (C1). The tusk unfortunately fell apart. Those pieces were divvied up and given to various individuals and institutions. In 1973, a father and his two sons excavated the same site and discovered the other tusk, another tooth, part of a clavicle, and the skull. The skull was in such poor condition that the only parts saved were the bones of the ears and a part of the jaw that formerly held a tusk. These items are currently in a private collection.

In the fall of 2009, the Crawford Park District attempted to determine the exact site of the Sulphur Springs Mastodon, in hopes that more bones could be discovered. (Oddly enough, there was no record as to the exact location of the find.) Over the course of three digs, it was determined that, based on the shifting of the subsoil, the original site had been located. Unfortunately, no other bones were found. The assumption was that the rest of the body had washed down stream. In the fall of 2017, while walking in the Brokensword Creek, Chris Rothhaar kicked up a curious object from the creek bed. It turned out to be a Mastodon rib! While only a few hundred yards downstream from the original Mastodon find, it is presumed to be from the (cont. page 2)

Mastodon remains on display at Lowe-Volk Nature Center. Top row: Atlas and Molar found in 1971. Bottom: Rib discovered in 2017.

Top photo: OSU’s discovery team. Bottom photo: Tusk, in situ.

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PARK NEWS same animal; however, this is not definitive. Where the rest of the skeleton is for this animal remains to be seen. Other Mastodon remains have been found in Crawford County. The most complete skeleton, referred to as the Hahn Mastodon, was discovered in 1838 near the tracks on Hopley Avenue in Bucyrus. Documents claim it to have been a complete skeleton. Unfortunately, it is presumed to have been consumed by fire in a Philadelphia museum. Two other references from the Ohio History Connection cite a Mastodon being found in Chatfield (1880, disposition unknown), and a Mastodon molar in Bucyrus

Township (date unknown, now at OSU’s Orton Hall). Currently, the Crawford Park District has the atlas, a molar, and a rib, all presumed to be from the Sulphur Springs Mastodon, on temporary display at the Nature Center. A long-term exhibit is being developed for the three pieces. Stop in to see a piece of Crawford County’s history. The CPD would like to thank the following for assisting in the documentation of Crawford County’s Ice Age History: Dale Stansbury, Dale Gnidovec of OSU’s Orton Hall, The Ohio History Connection, Tom Kibler, Evelyn Kibler, Chris Rothhaar, and the Medici Family.

Canada Goose

Red-tailed Hawk

Ring-billed Gull

Herring Gull

Rock Dove

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Morning Dove

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Horned Lark

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Golden Crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Eastern Robin

European Starling

American Tree Sparrow

Song Sparrow

White-throated Sparow

White-crowned Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Lapland Longspur

Snow Bunting

Brown-headed Cowbird

Northern Cardinal

House Finch

Pine Siskin

American Goldfinch

House Sparrow

Total

58

9

16

40

33

1

82

12

16

24

15

6

4

65

568

775

17

21

33

1

4

7

20

5

230

205

33

2

5

98

7

75

15

54

42

13

43

115

2769

Audubon Christmas Bird Count 2017 Recap A team of birders hit the field on Dec. 31, 2017, to record bird species and numbers present in one of the biggest citizen science efforts in the country. Records were also submitted by bird feeder watchers. As the day was rather cold (single digit temps) and windy, bird activity was very minimal with no significant sightings to report. However, expected bird species were present, which is still important data. Of note for this year’s count were 75 Snow Buntings. These “snow birds” migrate from the Arctic tundra and enjoy a similar landscape our ag fields provide. While not a common bird for us, their presence highlights Crawford County’s global importance to bird populations.

Snow Bunting — photo taken in Dec. of 2012 by Warren Uxley

Sketch of the 1838 Hahn Mastodon

Dig of 2009. Note soil layers used to determine the shift after the hole caved in from 1973. Dale Stansbu-ry probes trench for possible remains.

PARK NEWS

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Dr. Laurie Anne Rhodebeck Scholarship

Created The Friends of the Crawford Park District have established a scholarship in memory of Dr. Laurie Anne Rhodebeck through the Community Foundation for Crawford County. Dr. Rhodebeck was a college Political Science professor who loved nature. During her life, she supported the mission of the Crawford Park District and appreciated the Park’s efforts to preserve natural areas of Crawford County and educate local citizens about the importance of caring for the environment. The Dr. Laurie Anne Rhodebeck Memorial Scholarship Fund will award two $1,000 scholarships each year. Applicants must have earned their high school diploma or must have passed an Ohio High School Equivalence Assessment. Also, applicants must be a resident of Crawford County or a resident of a neighboring county who has graduated from and currently resides within a Crawford County school district. Applicants can be entering any level of their education-al attainment and can be attending any college, university, technical or vocational school. Preference will be given to those studying environ-mental sciences or other studies that correlate with the mission of the Crawford Park District and to those who can display involvement in community service activities. There is a required essay on the environ-ment. This scholarship may be renewed if the student reapplies and is selected. Anyone who would like to apply for this memorial scholarship can obtain an application at the Community Foundation for Crawford County’s scholarship webpage: http://www.cfcrawford.org/

Puppet Show a Success!!! The “Animals in Winter” puppet show hit the road this past Feb-ruary. All public school kids, grades pre-k through 1st (a total of 1342 students, adult DD, teachers, aids and other staff) learned how animals are adapted to survive winter. From migrating birds to hi-bernating groundhogs and more, a fun learning experience was had by all! First Grader Sydney Holbrook from Wynford had this to say: “It was cool! I really liked learning about animals in wintertime. The rabbit was my favorite. I liked her voice.” Tim Souder, Princi-pal of Bucyrus Elementary School said, “It was a big hit,” and added this message from kindergarten teacher Nancy Lipsomb: “They did a great job. It reviewed what we’ve been learning about: winter, animals, and their habitats, too! Hope we can have this again next year!”

PROGRAMS All programs are free of charge, unless otherwise noted. For more information or

questions about programs, call 419-683-9000, or visit www.crawfordparkdistrict.org

Homeschool in Nature: Heredity & Traits Thur. March 1 10am & 2pm Lowe-Volk Park Do you have blue eyes or can you roll your tongue like one of your parents? These traits might not seem very beneficial, but other animals inherit traits that enable them to survive in the wild. There are even some traits that may hinder their survival. Classes are limited to 20 students per session. Please call the Park District to reserve a spot for your 5-12 year old by February 28.

Arrowhead Day Saturday, March 3 10am-2pm Lowe-Volk Park

If you are into pre-historic artifacts, this event is for you! Come see what other local collectors have found in the fields of Crawford County, as well as other areas. Members of the Johnny Appleseed Chapter of the Archaeological Society of Ohio will also be on hand to display their collections. Come and view these displays, and have your questions answered about your artifacts. Skunk Cabbage Sunday, March 4 2pm Galion Wetland The CPD has a small wetland in Galion and it’s loaded with Skunk Cabbage! Being associated with our smelliest mammal may not seem like a good thing. Ask an early emerging insect and you’ll get a different answer. Join Josh for this stroll through the Park District’s small bog preserve on the edge of Galion’s city limits to explore our earliest blooming wildflower. Meet at the Gill Ave. Heise Park pavilion, near the softball field. Shamrock Shenanigans Thursday, March 15 6pm Lowe-Volk Park Nature is glorified in many holidays and St Patrick’s Day is one of them! Shamrocks are mostly associated with white clover or wood sorrel, but any three-leaved plant will do. Joy Etter-Link will have fun games, a craft, and a take-home activity to celebrate the shamrock and its nature connection. Celebrate St. Patty’s Day naturally! Fun for the whole family.

Early Birding Saturday, March 17 9am Unger Park Birding in the early days of spring is easier since there are fewer bird species! As winter fades to spring, our resident birds begin their territorial singing, and no leaves make it easier to spot them flitting among branches. Join Josh for this morning stroll through Unger’s prairies and bottomlands while listening to the songs of our feathered friends. Native Plants for Birds Monday, March 19 6pm Lowe-Volk Park Ever wonder how to attract more birds to your home without buying bird seed? Audubon’s Michael Goldman will explain how to do just that. By planting native plants in your yard you too can have a whole menagerie full of birds. Michael will also be going through Audubon’s Plants for Birds database to help you learn what will best grow in your gardens and what kinds of birds you can attract to your home. Not only can you learn how to help the birds but native plants will also help local pollinator populations. Wild Wednesdays Wed. March 21 10am & 2pm Lowe-Volk Park Come to the Nature Center and enjoy an hour of nature exploration! Program topics will vary and may include a story, short hike, craft, or a visit from an animal. For pre-schoolers and their parents. Come dressed for the weather. Morning and afternoon programs will be similar, just choose the time that best fits your schedule. Leaping Lizards Thursday, March 22 5pm Lowe-Volk Park Join Lisa to learn about the 5 lizards that call Ohio home! From quick bursts of speed to losing their tail, these animals have many ways to escape predators. We’ll also take a close look at the lizards that live in the Nature Center. All ages are welcome.

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March

PROGRAMS

Planetarium I Saturday, March 24 10am Lowe-Volk Park Join Dan Everly for a planetarium program in the Nature Center. This program is FAMILY FRIENDLY. You will explore the Milky Way Galaxy. Dan will also highlight numerous constellations and how they relate to Greek, Roman, and Native American mythology. Call the Park District to reserve your spot. Vernal Pool Exploration Saturday, March 24 1pm Heckert Vernal Pools are a diverse habitat to study. Join Josh for an investigation of the vernal pools at Heckert looking for bugs, frogs, and SALAMANDERS, of course! We’ll even explore the new wetlands because if you build it, they will come. All ages welcome. Wear rubber boots. Planetarium II Saturday, March 24 7pm Lowe-Volk Park Join Dan Everly for a planetarium program in the Nature Center. This program is DESIGNED FOR ADULTS and will be much more detailed than the earlier “family friendly” showing. You will explore the Milky Way Galaxy. Dan will also highlight numerous constellations and how they relate to Greek, Roman, and Native American mythology. Call the Park District to reserve your spot. Viewing the Night Sky Saturday, March 24 8pm Lowe-Volk Park Join members of the Lowe-Volk Astronomy Club as they share their knowledge and telescope skills with all who are interested in the celestial sights. Targets for the spring months will include: M1 (Crab Nebula), M42 (Orion Nebula), M44 (Beehive Cluster), and M65 Spiral Galaxy). Bring your own telescope or allow the volunteers to assist you with those provided. It’s a spectacular universe! Hi-Tech Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, March 25 1-3pm Lowe-Volk Park Kids! Bring your GPS or borrow one from us. Join Don Hatfield’s family and friends for an Easter Egg Hunt around Lowe-Volk Park. Using your GPS you will find

the eggs hidden in the park, and answer a nature based question in the egg. Kids finding eggs and answering the questions will receive a small prize. Come join the fun! Getting Froggy With It Monday, March 26 6pm Lowe-Volk Park Some of the most common visitors to the ponds in this area are frogs and tadpoles. We hear their croaks and calls in the spring and fall and we often see them swimming or hopping around the ponds and wetlands at the park. Come read a froggy story with Mandi Fruth, do a fun frog craft and take a hike around the pond to search for these jumpy critters. We will learn some interesting facts about this common hoppy amphibian. For children aged 3-7. Wild Wednesdays Wed. March 28 10am & 2pm Lowe-Volk Park See page 4 for program info. Viewing the Night Sky Saturday, March 31 8pm Lowe-Volk Park See page 5 for program info. Sleeping Beauties: Enjoying and Landscaping with Spring Ephemerals Monday, April 2 6:30pm Lowe-Volk Park Although many people regard shady areas as creating a problem and not a spot for a beautiful garden, just the opposite is true. All you need to do is choose the right plants. Beginning in March, the woodlands give way to a profusion of wonders that peak in late April through May. Woodland gardens can be quite magical with spring ephemerals and large sweeps of flowering groundcovers mimicking their natural setting. Woodland gardens can support a wide range of plants. This presentation by Gale Martin of Natives In Harmony Nursery will discuss the meaning of Spring Ephemeral, how to identify and select specimens native to your region and how to use the correct plants for your spot rather than adapting the conditions of the garden to the needs of the plants.

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March/April

PROGRAMS

The American Woodcock Wed. April 4, 8pm Lowe-Volk Park Performing its courtship ritual in the early spring the American Woodcock is an essential part of the right of spring. Meet Warren Uxley at the Lowe-Volk Nature center. Homeschool in Nature: Amphibians Thursday, April 5 10am & 2pm Lowe-Volk Park Do you know which vertebrate group’s name means “dual life” in Greek? This month we will learn about characteristics of amphibians and study several species that are found in Ohio! Classes are limited to 20 students per session. Please call the Park District to reserve a spot for your 5-12 year old by April 4. Painting at the Park Tuesday, April 10 6pm Lowe-Volk Park Spring is in the air, or in this case, spring wildflowers on canvas! Candy Yocum will take you step-by step in painting our state wildflower, the Large-Flowered Trillium, on an 8x10 stretched canvas. The class is limited to 25 participants ages 5 and up. Please call the Park District to reserve a spot by April 9. A $5 donation is recommended to cover the costs of supplies and can be paid that night. Arrowhead/Artifact Hunt Sat. April 14 10am Meet at Lowe-Volk Park Join members of the Johnny Appleseed Chapter 19 of the Archaeological Society of Ohio to walk nearby farm fields for flint and stone remnants of prehistoric cultures who inhabited Crawford County. Be the first human to touch an arrowhead since it was used thousands of years ago! Don’t miss this popular annual event. Bring the whole family, dress for the weather and don’t forget your boots if the ground is wet. Also, walking sticks and small digging tools can be helpful. Wildflowers Sunday, April 15, 2018 3pm Sears Woods The spring wildflowers are spectacular in the early spring just before the leaves emerge on the trees. Meet Warren Uxley at the Sears Woods parking lot for

a great afternoon. Wild Wednesdays Wed. April 18 10am & 2pm Lowe-Volk Park See page 4 for program info. Chicks Dig Birds Thursday, April 19 6pm Lowe-Volk Park “Cheep! Cheep!” Spring is a time for birds to build nests and raise their chicks. Some chicks are born featherless and helpless, while others may be born with feathers and ready to run or swim looking for their own food. Joy Etter-Link will have fun chick activities and special visitors for this program about bird chicks. Fun for the whole family. Earth Day Fair Saturday, April 21 11am-2pm Lowe-Volk Park The Crawford Park District is partnering with many local organizations to host our annual Earth Day Fair. The focus of this event is not only to get people thinking about the 3 R’s — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — but also about sustainability, creating backyard habitat, and much more! There will be many “green” table displays and activities. The following displays and activities planned include: Recycle Trailer and display from Crawford County Solid Waste District, interactive “living stream” display from ODNR Scenic Rivers Program, Recycled Projects from Lisa Smith’s 4th Grade class (Colonel Crawford), Composting Demo from the Soil and Water Cons. Dist., Native Plant Sale, Recycled Nature Craft, Natural Pesticides display, “mud play”, and displays from local businesses that demonstrate the focal points of this event. Come and celebrate Earth Day with us! Our Exceptional Earth Monday, April 23 6pm Lowe-Volk Park We live on a truly extraordinary planet, and what better time to learn about it than the day after Earth Day! The earth's systems all work together to create the ideal climate, atmosphere, and ecosystem for all forms of life. Join Mandi Fruth to learn some of these astounding facts and secrets about our unique and balanced planet. We will read a fun book, make a

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April

PROGRAMS

Page 7

craft to hang in your window and take a hike to enjoy some of the benefits our Earth provides. For children aged 3-10. Spring Hike Saturday, April 28 10am Carpenter’s Bottom Carpenter’s Bottom hosts blankets of spring wildflowers, rich bottomland, and a vernal pool. Join Josh for this morning stroll exploring all nature has to offer. A fun hike for the whole family. Viewing the Night Sky Saturday, April 28 8:30pm Lowe-Volk Park See page 5 for program info. Birds Saturday, May 5 9am Sears Woods Early May is the best time to go in search of birds in Ohio; Thrushes, Warblers, Vireos and Tanagers are all on display. Meet Warren Uxley at the Sears Wood parking lot for a great day. Tellin’ Tales and Leesville History A Burning Desire to Serve: Crawford County Fire Departments Saturday, May 5 2pm Lowe-Volk Park This gathering is organized to share information about local history. Dedicated firemen have protected life and property in Crawford County for many years. In addition to the staff of City Departments, thousands of volunteers have served the Villages and Townships. From bucket brigades to high tech ladder trucks, there has been quite an evolution of equipment and methods. “Big fires” have ravaged industries, downtowns and private homes . All fires leave a mark on our area’s history. Everyone is welcome to share their stories and their memorabilia. Bird Banding Saturday, May 12 7am – 1pm Lowe-Volk Park In conjunction with the Pancake Breakfast, we’ll be banding birds in the Bird Viewing Room of the Nature Center. Join Bob Placier, Josh, and Lisa for a morning of science! They’ll be monitoring mist nets to see which birds inhabit or pass through Lowe-Volk Park.

Banding is used to track trends in bird populations, among other research applications. All ages welcome, and grab some pancakes in support of your Park District! Pancakes in the Park Saturday, May 12 8am – 1pm Lowe-Volk Park Come and support your Parks while satisfying your appetite. For a $5.00 donation, you can get pancakes topped with REAL maple syrup, a side of delicious ham, and a great morning enjoying and supporting your Park District! Name Hike Tuesday, May 15 5:30pm Heckert Join Lisa for a hike through Heckert Nature Preserve. As we’re walking on the trail, keep an eye out for items in nature that start with the letters in your name! Movie in the Park Sunday, May 20 2pm Lowe-Volk Park Come out to the Nature Center for another “Movie in the Park” adventure! We’ll provide the movie, popcorn, and an additional activity. You are welcome to bring a pillow and blanket to sit on while watching a movie about animals. Viewing the Night Sky Saturday, May 26 9pm Lowe-Volk Park Join members of the Lowe-Volk Astronomy Club as they share their knowledge and telescope skills with all who are interested in the celestial sights. Targets for the spring months will include: M1 (Crab Nebula), M42 (Orion Nebula), M44 (Beehive Cluster), and M65 Spiral Galaxy). Bring your own telescope or allow the volunteers to assist you with those provided. It’s a spectacular universe! Daughmer Sunday, May 27 3pm Daughmer Savannah The Daughmer Savannah State Nature Preserve is one of the best natural history displays in the state of Ohio. Meet Warren Uxley at the Daughmer parking lot for a great afternoon.

April/May

Common Blue Violet Viola sororia

Canada Violet Viola Canadensis Striped White violet Viola striata

Downy Yellow Violet Viola pubescens

Long-spur Violet Viola rostrata

Hybrid Violet Viola rostrata X Viola striata

Toadshade Trillium sessile (maroon/red form) Toadshade Trillium sessile (yellow/green form)

Trillium grandiflorum Large White Trillium Large White - pink from age

The Cackling Geese By Warren Uxley

It’s the end of September and I’m parked along the highway of Route 30 hoping that a state trooper won’t come along and start asking questions. Directly over the fence sits a triangular shaped lake that has Canada Geese sitting on it, or what would pass for Canada Geese. The geese would have been classified as Richardson’s race of the Canada Goose until quite recently; now they are considered to be a newly designated species: the Cackling Goose. Cackling Geese are very similar to the Canada Geese, they look virtually the same as a Canada Goose in all respects except for a few small details. Cackling Geese are small, they are half the size of their Canada relatives, the head is more rounded than the head of the Canada and the bill is considerably smaller than that of their Canadian cousins. All of this is useful information but without the two species standing next to one another the identification can be difficult and that is the situation right now. The smaller size is at odds with Bergman’s rule which states that as you go north the size of a species will increase. This is not always the case of course but this is a real change from the expected norm. Cackling Geese live as far north as possible, they nest along a small fringe if land that borders the Arctic Ocean and the islands that are just to the north. This is one more reason to like the Cackling Geese: their summertime home is in the high Arctic. This might explain the small size: the food that far north would be small and not given to making animals very large. Unfortunately, there are many morphological variants within the species of Cackling Geese; they range in size from the smallest to the largest in body size and the confusion over the species is rampant. There are also many different color schemes out there that add to this confusion. I am concerned with the smaller sized geese, these are the ones that lend themselves to accurate visual measurements’ and they are also from the populations that summer further north than any of the other subspecies. I run through the keys that will help me make the correct choices and sure enough they are the Cackling Geese. There is one final assessment that I can make, the calls are shrill and discordant, they are truly magnificent birds.

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Cackling Goose vs. Canada Goose. Note the smaller size of the

Cackling Goose, and its more rounded head.

Messier Objects: While noting this spring’s targets, we see M1, M42, M44, and M65. Throw in M16 and one would assume a discussion on firearms. Not the case. In the 18th century, Charles Messier (French astronomer) was studying comets as the chief astronomer at the Marine Observatory in Paris. While tracking a comet in 1758, he was distracted by a cloudy nebula that didn’t track like a comet. He also noted other similar cloudy objects. In order to prevent other astronomers from the same confusion, he developed a list of these objects. Starting with “1”, he began a catalogue of these cloudy objects, some he discovered and some by others. On March 18, 1781 he discovered nine new nebulae. Messier went on to catalogue 103 objects of the sky, starting with M1, later named the Crab Nebula.

Meeting Dates & Times (4th & 5th Saturdays of each month; note start time changes; programs held regardless of sky conditions)

March 24 @ 8pm March 31 @ 8pm

April 28 @ 8:30pm May 26 @ 9pm

Targets for Spring: *M1 (Crab Nebula) — This nebula is a supernova remnant in the constellation Taurus. It is 6,523 light years away and was discovered by Chinese astronomers on July 4, 1054. At the time of its discovery, it could be seen during the day. *M42 (Orion Nebula) — A birthplace of stars, Orion Nebula is one of the closest to Earth, a mere 1,300 light years away. It is a very impressive object to observe. *M44 (Beehive Cluster) — As one looks due south in the constellation Cancer, 1,000 stars appear within the Beehive Cluster. It can be seen with the naked eye as it is only 577 light years away, one of the closest open clusters to Earth. *M65 (Spiral Galaxy) — Tis galaxy is 35 million light years away!. Located in the constellation Leo, it is one of three objects collectively known as the “Leo Cluster”. This cluster also includes M66 and NGC 3628.

Nature Camp Dates for 2018

If you are familiar with Nature Day Camp, you know that it is a very popular activity. We want you to be pre-pared with the enrollment details, so you can be ready when registration opens at 8 am on March 1, 2018. You can print the registration forms from our website; or, stop into the Nature Center to pick them up at the front desk. Payments (cash, check, or credit cards) must be made in the Nature Center to reserve your child’s spot in camp.

Dates

6/11 to 6/15 6/18 to 6/22 6/25 to 6/29 7/9 to 7/13

7/16 to 7/20 7/23 to 7/27 7/30 to 8/3

8/6 to 8/10

Ages

5-6 7-9 7-9

10-12 7-9

10-12 7-9

5-6

Times

9am-Noon 9am-3pm 9am-3pm 9am-3pm 9am-3pm 9am-3pm 9am-3pm

9am-Noon

Cost

$50 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100

$50

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Page 10

Recycling @ the Nature Center Here is what you can bring: #1 & #2 plas-

tics, glass, paper products & cardboard,

steel & aluminum cans, CFL bulbs, batter-

ies, old eye glasses, cell phones, tablets, &

laptops.

NO OTHER ELECTRONICS, MONITORS,

ETC. WILL BE ACCEPTED!

DROP-OFF DATES

Saturday, March 10, 9am-Noon

Saturday, April 14, 9am-Noon

Saturday, April 21, 9am-Noon

Saturday, May 12, 9am-Noon

Crawford Soil and Water Conservation District The CPD will now feature programs from the Crawford SWCD in our newsletter. The SWCD has a similar mission as the CPD in ensuring a quality environment for all. For information and/or order forms for all our programs, go to our website www.crawfordswcd.org, or call 419-562-8280 ext. 3. March 7th: Neighbor to Neighbor Conservation Series – Hartschuh Family Syrup Shack –Learn all about the syrup making process March 16th: Tree Sale Deadline – Evergreens, Hardwoods, Shrubs, and Grape cuttings March 28/29: Tree Sale Pick Up in Crawford SWCD office April 4th: Neighbor to Neighbor Conservation Series – Forestry management - Walk the woodlot with Private Forester Marty Michel to learn tree ID, timber stand improvement, controlling invasives, and more. April 21st: Earth Day Fair at Lowe Volk Park April 26th: Fish Sale Deadline April 27th: Fish Pick-up in Crawford SWCD parking lot

A Visit Through Ohio’s Geology

Studying Ohio’s geologic history gives insight into how our landscape has changed. During the Pre-Cambrian, our igneous and metamorphic “basement rocks” formed. These are known only from deep drillings. After this period, evidence of the last 570 million years can be seen somewhere near the surface in Ohio. Seas came and went throughout the Cambrian, Ordivician, Silurian, and Devonian Periods, providing deposition for many sedimentary rocks; the Carboniferous Period was punctuated by an influx in land plants and swamps that created the base for the great coal beds; sedimentary bedrocks of shale, limestone, and coal developed during the Permian Period; and a great void of geologic time (245 million years’ worth) is lost, with natural forces erasing any evidence of the “Age of Dinosaurs” and the “Rise of Mammals”. Most recently, the Quarternary Period has left the most obvious mark on our landscape. During the latter part of this period, the Pleistocene Epoch – better known as the Ice Age – gripped Ohio. Glaciers scraped bedrock and deposited clays, sand, gravel, and rock that we see today. Ohio had at least three major glaciation events, the last being the Wisconsinan. (If there were more, proceeding glaciers erased that evidence.) As this last glacial ice sheet receded, it left behind a landscape similar to a tundra that gave way to a spruce bog habitat. Within these habitats, the last of the now-extinct prehistoric mammals eked out their final days.

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FRIENDS MEMBERSHIP’S Kinglet (student/senior) Judy Diederich Dan Everly Shirley Hehr Phil & Pat Joseph Maxine Keller In Memory of Darl E. Keller Ken & Penny Jarvis Martha Schroeder In Memory of Dan Schroeder Randal & Sarah Shifley Stella Teynor Mary K. Thompson Dick & Betty Vance Miriam Vensel Jim Wagner Cardinal (individual) James E. Carpenter Martha Cellini Joseph & Erin D’Ettorre Kim Felkey Delores Geiger Julie Guss Donald Heydinger Kenneth E. Hayes Mike & Nancy Hocker Kafer Family Thomas Miller Tom & Jan Pfeifer Jim & Barb Pierce Pete & Joyce Roll Mary Russell Mark Schanzenbach Michael Schimpf Maureen Sharrock Kathleen Slayton Dorothy Stickler Becky Teynor Wayne Willacker Flock (family) Lowell & Kathleen Adams Bart & Libbie Anatra Elmore & Doris Beale Sam & Dee Benedict Arvel & Joy Bradford Norm & Caroline Campbell John & Geneva Clary John & Phyllis Cole Richard & June Cope Joe & Nancy Cozad Scott & Karen Donahue and Family Robert & Lucille Dunn Rob & Rebecca Farson Ted & Jeanie Fike Frank & Margaret Fischer Bob & Faye Fisher Dave & Bonnie Fisher Jim & Nell Frank Lowell & Dodi Garverick Mary Lou Griebling Bill & Kathy Halter Randy & Cheryl Harner

Leonard & Ann Hartman Suzanne Hawkins Roland & Bonnie Hildebrand Richard & Carol Kanable John & Mary Jane Kelley John & Joyce Kennedy Bill, Cindy & Katie Kuhn Jeff & Becky Laipply Jim & Pat Miller Barry & Cathy Moneysmith Larry & Linda Morrison R. Scott & Janet Painter Chris Ruth Family from Gale & Mary Ann Ruth Donald & Judith Smith David Spraw Robert & Nancy Stauffer Allen & Sandy Stuckey Don & Dawn Tudor Donald R. Wenner Carl & Margie Watt Robert & Jean Zaebst Bur Oak Circle (supporting) Jim & Myrna Bricker Roger & Sue Daniel In Memory of Edward Cooke Scott & Yvonne Donnenwirth Steven Eckstein Myra Enright Randy Fischer Donald & Judith Hatfield Ty & Caryl Huggins Jan Kennedy Leonard & Katie Kocher Buck & Ann Monnett Mark & Pat Murphy Sharon Payne In Memory of Mason Weiland Jim & Deb Pigman John & Doris Roseberry Frederick Schill David Spraw Jim & Jeanne Thompson Brad & Amy VanVoorhis Bald Eagle Club (sustaining) Don & Jean Beck Lanny & Jane Brown In Memory of Jan Knisely Donna Daniel Edward Dolch In Memory of Barbara Dolch Rich & Loyce Carpenter Al & Jan Fulton Elaine Hottenroth Ron & Susan Keller Billy & Jennifer Kuhn Lon & Katie Leapley Paul & Pam Louden Gene & Betty Luidhardt Jim & Helen Luidhardt Herbert & Betty Marshall Carol Palenshus James W. & Janet P. Pry

Dave Sharrock In Memory of William “Bill” Sharrock Steve & Sarah Shields Janice Shuck In Memory of Jack B. Shuck Judith Thiel Walt Upchurch Tallgrass Prairie Club (sponsoring) Virginia Esler In Memory of Carolyn McMurray Bob & Judy Grochowalski Mike & Nancy Kolehmainen In Memory of Pepper Thomas A. McDowell Peoples Savings and Loan Company Valerie Spreng Tom & Tracy Tappan Sycamore (promoting) Candace Jones Natural Resource Partner

(corporate) Richard Cooper & Mary Donaldson Bill & Marilyn Stepro Other Donations: Chris & Tonya Fike In Honor of Emerson Eckstein Arthur J. Freese Foundation Kohl’s Aruthur & Patricia Rank Roger Scott Judith Thiel Walmart Bird Seed Donations: Elizabeth Daniel Maxine Keller In Memory of Darl Keller Carol Rhodebeck Giving Tuesday Donations: Anthony Lee Screen Printing Earth, Wind & Flowers Garden Club Mike & Nancy Hocker Jim & LInda Leyda Prudential Insurance Company Rotary Club of Bucyrus Alan & Mary Ann Basinger Donald & Jean Beck Don & Marilyn Burkholder Ken Cameron Marjorie Carnahan Richard & Loyce Carpenter Charles & Lisa Clark Gary & Helen Cole Peggy DeGray Gerry & Elizabeth Dolan Robert & Lucille Dunn Emerson Eckstein Steven Eckstein Bill & Donna Fisher

June Gebhardt David & Kathy Halsey Marjorie Harter Scott & MaryLou Hastings Steven & Carolyn Helbert Dr. Jeff & Carol Holter Doug & Sue Horsley Skip James Rev. Ronald & Susan Keller Susan Kent Martha Kozik Gary & Lesley Lawson Lon & Katie Leapley Kathleen Lowe James & Helen Luidhardt Jan Maddy Dr. Pete & Susan Maynard Dr. Glen & Nancy McMurray Bill & MaryLee Minor James & Deb Pigman Daniel & Barb Price Jim & Janet Pry Tamara Robinson In Memory of Paul Robinson David & Carol Rowland Russell & Judi Saurers Martha Schroeder Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Shadeed Debra Shields Tim & Pat Simmermacher Dorothy Strickler Allen & Sandy Stuckey Eugene & Ethel Toy Raymond & Wanda Trash Donald & Dawn Tudor Dale & Joan Wolfe Memorial Donations: Mary Badgley In Memory of Ray McCaffrey Timothy Bartholomew In Memory Of Jack Campbell Timothy Bartholomew In Memory of Marguerite Seif Lanny & Jane Brown In Memory of Raymond Dayton & Carl VanBuskirk Marjorie Harter In Memory of Carolyn McMurray Nanette Kibler In Memory of Nancy Haag Jimmy & Sharon Payne In Memory of Carri Payne Jerry & Diane Shawber In Memory of Virginia “Jenny” Lamb Raymond & Wanda Trash In Memory of AB & Jeannette Youmans Alton “Clem” Studer: Donald Eppley Sunrise Cooperative, Inc. Jim & Beth Zucker

Thank you to the following who have donated to the Friends of the Crawford Park District between:

November 18, 2017 through February 20, 2018

Friends of the Crawford Park District 2401 State Route 598 Crestline, Ohio 44827 419-683-9000 Trustees: Richard Carpenter Emerson Eckstein Bill Fisher Martha Kozik Dan Everly Board of Park Commissioners: Richard Carpenter Peggy DeGray Jan Maddy Director — Bill Fisher Executive Secretary — Patti Schiefer Program Coordinator — Joshua Dyer Naturalists — Lisa Bogard, Warren Uxley Program Asst. — Joy Etter-Link Receptionist — Mandi Fruth, Patti Gervais

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID PERMIT NO. 10

CPD Abbreviated Calendar

Park/Program Location Key: LVP (Lowe-Volk Park); UP (Unger Park); HNP (Heckert Nature Preserve); SW (Sears Woods); DS (Daughmer Savannah); CB (Carpenter’s Bottom); GW (Galion Wetland)

Date Program/Event Time Park

Thurs. 3/1 Homeschool: Heredity & Traits 10am & 2pm LVP

Sat. 3/3 Arrowhead Day 10am-2pm LVP

Sun. 3/4 Skunk Cabbage 2pm GW

Sat. 3/10 Recycling 9am -12pm LVP

Thurs. 3/15 Shamrock Shenanigans 6pm LVP

Sat. 3/17 Early Birding 9am UP

Mon. 3/19 Native Plants for Birds 6pm LVP

Wed. 3/21 Wild Wednesdays 10am & 2pm LVP

Thurs. 3/22 Leaping Lizards 5pm LVP

Sat. 3/24 Planetarium I 10am LVP

Sat. 3/24 Vernal Pool Exploration 1pm HNP

Sat. 3/24 Planetarium II 7pm LVP

Sat. 3/24 Viewing the Night Sky 8pm LVP

Sun. 3/25 Hi-Tech Easter Egg Hunt 1-3pm LVP

Mon. 3/26 Getting Froggy With It 6pm LVP

Wed. 3/28 Wild Wednesdays 10am & 2pm LVP

Sat. 3/31 Viewing the Night Sky 8pm LVP

Mon. 4/2 Earth, Wind, & Flowers Prog. 6:30pm LVP

Wed. 4/4 The American Woodcock 8pm LVP

Thurs. 4/5 Homeschool: Amphibians 10am & 2pm LVP

Tues. 4/10 Painting in the Park 6pm LVP

Sat. 4/14 Recycling 9am -12pm LVP

Sat. 4/14 Arrowhead/Artifact Hunt 10am LVP

Sun. 4/15 Wildflowers 3pm SW

Wed. 4/18 Wild Wednesdays 10am & 2pm LVP

Thurs. 4/19 Chicks Dig Birds 6pm LVP

Sat. 4/21 Earth Day Fair 11am-2pm LVP

Mon. 4/23 Our Exceptional Earth 6pm LVP

Sat. 4/28 Spring Hike 10am CB

Sat. 4/28 Viewing the Night Sky 8:30pm LVP

Sat. 5/5 Birds 9am SW

Sat. 5/5 Tellin’ Tales: Fire Departments 2pm LVP

Sat. 5/12 Bird Banding 7am –1pm LVP

Sat. 5/12 Pancakes in the Park 8am –1pm LVP

Sat. 5/12 Recycling 9am -12pm LVP

Tues. 5/15 Name Hike 5pm HNP

Sun. 5/20 Movie in the Park 2pm LVP

Sat. 5/26 Viewing the Night Sky 9pm LVP

Sun. 5/27 Daughmer 3pm DS

Sat. 6/2-3 Living History Day See schedule LVP