PREBLE COUNTY — Audubon of Miami Valley has several opportunities to explore in Preble County coming up in April.
Saturday, April 13 — Field trip to Garber Nature Center, 9691 OH 503 North, Lewisburg.
This nature center land was donated by a local family and has been developed as the Allen and Adaline Garber Nature Center. About 33 acres of forest area have been developed into 3.3 miles of hiking trails. A wetland has also been created. Step back in time and experience the flower garden, summer kitchen, and numerous antiques. Following the tour, hike the trails to see early wildflowers and early spring bird migrants. Meet at the destination at 9 a.m. Bring a personal lunch if you would like to join in for an informal picnic mid-day.
Saturday, April 20 — Spring Volunteer Day at Hueston Woods State Park: Volunteers needed
Audubon Miami Valley Volunteer Day at the Hueston Woods State Nature Preserve area known as the Big Woods, will be Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pizza will be provided.
This area of the preserve is designated as a local Important Bird Area (IBA). AMV adopted this Important Bird Area as a stewardship project in 2012. The woods are a small remnant of the mature Beech-Maple Forest that used to cover much of Ohio. The purpose of AMV’s work is to protect the diversity of the woodlands from invasive plants that crowd out the beautiful wildflowers that bloom in April, such as Spring beauty, Dutchman’s breeches, and Trilliums, the native shrubs and understory trees such as Spicebush and Pawpaw, and the tree seedlings that regenerate the forest. Wildlife of all kinds, including nesting birds and migratory birds depend on this mature woodland habitat.
Volunteers should dress for the weather, and for off-trail work: long pants and athletic shoes or boots — no flip-flops or shorts. Gloves and tools will be provided. Bring own water bottle. Volunteers will be hand-pulling and digging invasive plants in the nature preserve. Honeysuckle and garlic mustard are the biggest offenders.
Register with Gail Reynolds, [email protected] so Audubon knows how many pizzas to order. Meet at the Maple Grove Picnic Area. This area is on the Main Loop Road at the top of the road leading down to the beach. There will be signs directing participants to the registration tent.
Monday, April 8 — No program due to solar eclipse: Traditionally, Audubon Miami Valley holds a program on the second Monday of the month. However, this program would fall on April 8, the same day as the solar eclipse. For the safety of members and guests, Audubon cancelled the program for April.
