Preserve provides lesson in nature

By Virginia Ross

The educational series is the first of its kind at the nature preserve.

EAST LEWISTON — Beaver Township’s Nature Preserve will be buzzing with activity this summer during several programs designed to educate and entertain area residents.

Attendees will have a chance to get a closer view of various birds, learn about different types of mushrooms and participate in a guided tour of the nature preserve.

The educational series is the first of its kind to be presented at the nature preserve, explained Scott Conway, Beaver Township park administrator.

“The township’s been wanting to give everyone a chance to see what’s at the nature preserve and to get involved with what’s going on there,” Conway said. “We’re very fortunate to be able to offer these programs.”

Volunteers have been putting a lot of time and energy into transforming the nature preserve into an outdoor classroom filled with trees and other vegetation, walking trails and a picnic area.

Most of the 81 acres off state Route 165 remained in its natural state until the township bought it several years ago. Portions of the education programs will be presented at the open-air pavilion near the preserve’s entrance.

The summer educational series will kick off at 2 p.m. June 28 when Heather Merritt from the Birds of Flight Sanctuary in Warren offers a “live” view of several birds. Birds she will discuss and present include the Broad-Winged Hawk, American Kestrel Bird and Bart Owl.

At 2 p.m. July 26, visitors will have a chance to explore the nature preserve during a tour guided by Metro Parks naturalist Mindy Henning and township naturalist Gary Heberling.

The tour, which will begin at the open-air pavilion, will include a 1.5-mile walk along the trails at the preserve and a closer view of the flora and fauna of the area.

Mushroom expert Walter Sturgeon will explain various mushroom types native to the area during a lesson at 2 p.m. Aug. 16. The program will include a search for mushrooms at the preserve and a lesson in identification at the open-air pavilion.

Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and the activities and to wear comfortable walking shoes or boots. There is no cost to attend any of the programs.

For more information, call the Beaver Township Park Board at (330) 549-9552.