For those who enjoy the outdoors, the remainder of September offers a handful of hands-on, family-friendly opportunities to explore wildlife and the night sky just north of Galion. The Crawford Park District has lined up several programs at Lowe-Volk Park and the nearby Sandusky Headwaters Preserve, both off State Route 598 south of Leesville.
These programs are open to all ages, and most don’t require registration. For details, the Park District can be reached at 419.683.9000.
Searching for Spiders
Wednesday, September 17 at 5:30 PM – Lowe-Volk Park
A walk through the park turns into a safari for spiders of every kind. From garden spiders to wolf spiders to tiny jumpers, naturalists will lead participants on a closer look at the web-spinners who call the park home.
Monarch Tagging
Monday, September 22 at 5:30 PM – Lowe-Volk Park
This program blends science with wonder. Attendees will learn about the Monarch butterfly’s migration and help capture, tag, and release butterflies as part of a Kansas University research project. Nets are provided, and all ages are welcome.
A Night Under the Stars
Saturday, September 27 at 8:00 PM – Lowe-Volk Park
The Crawford Park Astronomy Club invites visitors to peer into the skies of early fall. Expect to see constellations like Pegasus, Andromeda, and Leo. If clouds roll in, the program will shift indoors to the Nature Center.
Feeding Day
Monday, September 29 at 5:30 PM – Lowe-Volk Park
Nature Center residents—turtles, snakes, and more—get their meals in front of an audience. Guests can help prepare food, hand a worm to an aquatic turtle, or watch a snake enjoy its dinner.
Taking Aim with Archery
Tuesday, September 30 from 5:00–7:00 PM – Lowe-Volk Park
Archery has a long history, and this evening session lets beginners and returning archers try their hand at the sport. Instructors will cover safety and technique before giving everyone a chance to test their aim. All equipment is provided. Two sessions are available, one starting at 5:00 PM and another at 6:00 PM. Registration is required by calling 419.683.9000.