Earth Day celebration brings ‘em out

Annual event at Penitentiary Glen filled fast, officials says

Of course, as was the case with many events last year, Earth Day celebrations across the region were either rescheduled, with limited schedules and programming, or flat-out nixed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

In fact, the effects of the crisis still loom, as evidenced at Lake Metroparks Penitentiary Glen Reservation, where a limited number of registrants for the free event explored the grounds April 25.

In addition, staples at the property in Kirtland, notably the Nature Center and Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center, remain closed until further notice, precautionary measures as documented COVID-19 cases steadily decrease.

But who wants to be indoors on Earth Day, anyway? Recognizing that, visitors attended an ecofair, with vendors who produce and promote “Earth-friendly” swag and various booths set up by local conservation organizations.

In the past, no registration was required, but in the face of current unique circumstances, having a headcount was mandated by Penitentiary Glen personnel. Typically, the event attracts 5,000 visitors.

Though scaled back quite a bit, the event filled up within days, and visitors formed into small groups before venturing out on guided station hikes led by several naturalists.

Each station, seven in total, outlined information pertaining to the “Restore the Earth” theme from many of the park system’s education departments, including interpretation, outdoor education and the neighboring Farmpark.

Animal chats with park ambassadors, crafts and train rides, in addition to Nature Play, were also included in rounding out the event.

After checking in, hiking adventures began.

Through each hike, visitors were able to learn about different elements of the ecosystem, such as air, soil, plants, variegated habitats, water and animals, noted Wildlife Education Manager Marilyn Levand.

“The theme helps restore, or at least reduce, the damage done to each of these systems, and details some of the things we can do to start repairing that damage,” she said, adding 171 total guests took part.

“Once they visit all the stations on hike, they’re given the craft kit to make seed balls with seeds from native plants, and a reusable water bottle as their ‘thank you.’

“We also provide opportunities (for visitors) to enter a drawing for some native

“The theme helps restore, or at least reduce, the damage done to each of these systems, and details some of the things we can do to start repairing that damage.”

— Wildlife Education Manager Marilyn Levand

plants,” Levand added. “We’re just happy to have people out.”

Not surprisingly, Lake Metroparks most often works off of a global theme for the event and has been highlighting Earth Day with family-friendly fetes in recognition of environmental protection for more than 30 years.

Penitentiary Glen Reservation is located at 8668 Kirtland Chardon Rd.

CHAD FELTON — THE NEWS-HERALD Wildlife Education Specialist Fred Murch, left, greets Penitentiary Glen visitors during the property’s Earth Day celebration on April 25. Several guided hikes were held during the event which had a limit of registrants due to COVID-19.

CHAD FELTON — THE NEWS-HERALD Hikes and educational stations throughout Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland drew 171visitors on April 25during the Lake Metroparks Earth Day celebration, including the water stewardship post guided by Nature Center Naturalist Anthony Gazso.