Black Swamp Conservancy invites the public to experience springtime in the Great Black Swamp at one of their wildflower walks on April 27 and May 4. Taking place on Conservancy protected properties; both events are free and open to the public.
The April 27 walk is being held at Forrest Woods Nature Preserve in Paulding County. Situated along Marie DeLarme Creek, a tributary of the Maumee River, the preserve is one of the finest remnants of the historic Great Black Swamp. Owned by the Conservancy, the 292-acre preserve is home to more than 30 rare, threatened and endangered species of plants and animal.
John Jaeger, former director of natural resources for Toledo Metroparks and Lloyd Jones, a retired biology professor from the University of Toledo will serve as guides.
New to the Conservancy in 2013, Huber Woods is the site of the May 4th event. Located in rural Pemberville, Huber Woods also retains many qualities of the Great Black Swamp. The property boasts six state-listed species including the Three-birds Orchid and the Ruby-crowned Kinglet.
Guided by landowners Robert Huber and Moira Von Stadden, both biology professors at Bowling Green State University, this tour will include a visit to the great blue heron rookery located on the property.
Both walks embark at 10 a.m. and will take place rain or shine.
Those interested in attending may RSVP and obtain directions by contacting the Conservancy at 419-872-5263, or by emailing sbrokamp@blackswamp.org.
