Connect with Nature in Your Own Backyard

By Ashland University Public Relations

Ashland University Environmental Studies Center to Host Summer ‘Naturalist on Duty’ Program

ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University’s Black Fork Wetlands Environmental Studies Center, located at 2628 Ashland Road, will host its fourth annual “Naturalist on Duty” series. The five events will be held on Saturdays this summer and early fall.

All five events are free and open to the public. The events will be held from 10am to Noon on one Saturday a month from June to October. The events are organized by Dr. Patricia Saunders, AU associate professor of biology and director of the environmental science program, and Merrill Tawse, AU professional instructor of biology.

“This ‘Naturalist on Duty’ series provides all with an opportunity to connect with nature in our own backyard and these informal, come-when-you-can style programs are short and flexible,” Saunders said. “New this year, we will do short programs each hour that focus on basic features of the organisms. These are helpful for identifying groups and common local examples. We will also have an art table for kids of all ages.”

Saunders noted that those under 16 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

The dates and general subject themes for this season’s events are:

• June 22 -- wetland wildlife
• July 20 -- dragonflies & damselflies
• Aug. 10 -- prairie flowers & pollinators
• Sept. 7 -- birds and bird banding
• Oct. 5 -- fall insects

Saunders worked together with Amanda Kriner (AU environmental science and biology graduate in the class of 2013) of the Richland County Park District to develop the Naturalist on Duty program, now starting its fourth year. Trained volunteers from the Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist program are recruited as guides for some events.

“You also will have an opportunity to see the Environmental Studies Center’s wetlands classroom, and learn a little more about this eco-friendly building,” Saunders said. “The boardwalk, observation tower, and most of all, the beauty and diversity of the Black Fork Wetlands will guarantee that you see something different every single time you come out. So bring the whole family, and join us for all five events.”

Ashland University, which has been ranked in the top tier of colleges and universities in U.S. News and World Report’s National Universities category, is a mid-sized, comprehensive private university conveniently located a short distance from Akron, Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Religiously affiliated with the Brethren Church, Ashland University (www.ashland.edu) deeply values the individual student and offers a unique educational experience that combines the challenge of strong, applied academic programs with a faculty and staff who build nurturing relationships with their students. ###