Lowe-Volk Park and Nature Center, just five miles north of Galion along State Route 598, has an exciting lineup of events this November. From learning about Ohio’s geological past to experiencing the magic of fall night skies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s a look at the engaging events planned this month.
Ohio’s Geological Riches
Geology in Ohio
- Date: Saturday, November 2
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park, 2401 State Route 598
- Event Details:
Crawford Park District volunteer Bryan Summer will guide participants through Ohio’s geological history, exploring rocks, minerals, and fossils. This hands-on program delves into Ohio’s ancient past, from the Ordovician Period around 500 million years ago to the present day. Attendees will have the opportunity to examine local geological samples, including Cincinnati Ordovician fossils, Flint Ridge flint, and Richland County’s red sandstone. Expect insights on granite, limestone, and even glacial deposits like gold! Free Ohio geology brochures and rock samples will be available.
Meet the Creatures
Feeding Day
- Date: Monday, November 4
- Time: 5:00 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
Naturalist Lisa will lead this engaging event where participants can help feed the center’s resident animals, including box turtles, aquatic turtles, and snakes. Bring a sense of adventure and prepare for a unique animal-feeding experience that’s both educational and fun for all ages.
Face to Face: Turtles
- Date: Wednesday, November 20
- Time: 5:00 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
This interactive program invites families to get up close and personal with native Ohio turtles, like the Woodland Box Turtle and Midland Painted Turtle. Attendees can touch and learn about these reptiles while exploring their life cycle, habitat, and unique adaptations.
Education for All Ages
Homeschool in Nature: Invasives
- Date: Thursday, November 7
- Times: 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
This month’s homeschool program will focus on invasive plant species found in the park. Participants will learn about their impact on local ecosystems and then venture into the woods to help remove some of these unwelcome visitors.
Little Explorers: Animal Tracks
- Date: Tuesday, November 12
- Time: 5:00 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
Designed for children ages 0-5, this interactive program stimulates sensory and motor skills. Kids will explore different animal tracks, compare prints, and even create their own prints to take home.
Birdwatching and Owl Spotting
Saw-whet Owls
- Date: Friday, November 8
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
Join bird bander Bob Placier as he returns to Lowe-Volk Park to study Ohio’s smallest owl, the Northern Saw-whet. After an educational presentation, participants will check mist nets for these nocturnal creatures. The event includes a campfire to keep warm between owl checks, so bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. It’s a magical evening adventure suitable for all ages.
Fall Bird Banding
- Date: Saturday, November 9
- Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
Observe fall bird migration firsthand with bird bander Bob Placier, who will have nets open to capture and study the avian visitors. This event offers insights into the bird species that remain in Crawford County during the colder months. It’s an ideal outing for bird enthusiasts and families alike.
Celestial Sights and Star Gazing
Viewing the Night Sky
- Dates: Saturday, November 23 at 6:30 PM and Saturday, November 30 at 6:00 PM
- Location: Lowe-Volk Park
- Event Details:
The Crawford Park Astronomy Club will guide attendees through the night sky using telescopes, focusing on celestial sights like the center of the Milky Way, Lagoon Nebula, Trifid Nebula, and the giant red star Antares. The event also highlights the Northern Crown constellation and the M4 globular cluster, which is just 5,500 light-years away. Attendees will explore these astronomical wonders, weather permitting. Be sure to dress warmly and enjoy the cosmos under a clear, crisp fall sky.
