The unseasonable warmth of this winter February and March. This means that spring wildflowers are beginning to appear in Northwest Ohio a little earlier than normal. Hancock Park District will begin this year’s Wildflower Monitoring season a week earlier than indicated in the HPD Spring 2017 HPD Seasonal Program & Event Guide.

The first outing will be held at Litzenberg Memorial Woods on Wednesday, March 15, at 1 p.m. Wildflower Monitoring at this location will continue every Wedenesday through May 17. Wildflower Monitoring at Oakwoods Nature Preserve will begin at 1 p.m. the following day, and be offered every Thursday through May 18.

“Skunk cabbage “blossoms” are huge and beautiful – six and a half inches tall,” says Sarah Betts, HPD Natural Resources Coordinator, adding that Spring Beauty and Purple Cress Buds are visible, too. She notes that ground temperatures are now averaging slightly above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so the trend toward early growth is expected to continue.

This hands-on in-the-field approach to monitoring environmental changes is one of the ways Hancock Park District volunteers experience a wide range of physical and mental activities. In addition to providing great exercise, Wildflower Monitoring is a relaxing, inexpensive way to spend time outdoors with family and friends.

All skill levels are welcome. Registration is not required to this free program which is recommended for participants 12 years and up. Please be prepared for weather, ground conditions, and at least 1 ½ - 2 ½ hours on the trails.

Litzenberg Memorial Woods is located at 6100 US RT 224, west of Findlay. Oakwoods Nature Preserve’s Richard S. “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center is located at 1400 Oakwoods Lane, off CR 144, west of Findlay. For more information about other upcoming park programs and events, visit www.HancockParks.com or call the park office at 419-425-7275.