Forestry Field Day will return to Tawawa Park from 1 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 20 near the Ross Covered Bridge.
The event is held by Shelby Soil & Water Conservation District. It is family-friendly and celebrates all things forest and tree-related.
Forestry Field Day is open to the public (not limited to Shelby County residents) and free. Last year about 500 people attended, and Shelby SWCD is hoping for similar attendance this year.
This year’s event will feature some favorite activities from previous Forestry Field Days but will also include some new activities. Again, this year Justin Law, Ohio Division of Natural Resources State Service Forester, will be giving woodland tours and answering any forest-related questions attendees may have.
Smokey the Bear will make an appearance to pass out goodie bags to children. There will be portable sawmill demonstrations. Attendees will get to try their hand at apple peeling and archery at interactive stations. There will again be a naturalist and two birds of prey (hawks and/or owls) from Hueston Woods State Park at the event.
New this year is demonstration sessions about chainsaw safety by Shelby County Ohio State University Extension Educator Rylee Kay Puthoff. Another new activity is a Bird Walk that will begin at 2:30 p.m. Jason Antonick, a birder for over 40 years, will lead this tour and introduce attendees to birding and local birds who winter in Ohio. The last new activity will be a Fairy House Scavenger Hunt for attendees of all ages; it will encourage close observation of nature while there.
With something for all ages and all interest levels, SWCS says Forestry Field Day is fun for the whole family. Children will be able to make tree-related crafts as well as participate in several other interactive activities. Tractor rides will be provided by Shelby County Antique Power Association volunteers, which will give people a chance to see more of Tawawa Park.
Free refreshments will include hotdogs, apples, and apple cider while supplies last.
For more information about Forestry Field Day, please see the Calendar of Events tab on www.shelbyswcd.org or find the event on Shelby Soil and Water Conservation District’s Facebook page.
Any questions can be directed by call or email to Amanda Hurley, Shellby SWCD Education and Outreach Coordinator, at 937-419-2597 or [email protected].
Shelby SWCD would like to thank Sidney Parks and Recreation for its cooperation in planning this event at Tawawa Park.
