Events

Located along the Little Miami Scenic Trail on the northern outskirts of the village of Spring Valley, OH, this 21.8-acre dedicated state nature preserve is a high-quality remnant prairie fen with several rare plant species. It is owned by Greene County Parks & Trails and is open by permit only. Several of the fen meadows have recently undergone extensive removal of invasive plants, releasing the native fen vegetation from their competition. We will join Austin Miller of Birdsong Landscapes as he leads us to check out the results of this restoration activity.  He recently reported seeing stiff gentians and ladies’ tresses orchids, in addition to Riddell’s and Ohio goldenrods.

We will park in Spring Valley and take an easy walk of about 1/3 mile on the Little Miami Scenic Trail bike path to the preserve entrance. There is so much to see along the bike path that if you decide you can’t make the trip up into the fen, you won’t be disappointed. 

The walk within Travertine Fen is more challenging as there are no improved trails. The trail is narrow and uneven with slopes, so hiking boots and trekking poles are recommended.

Parking information will be sent to registrants.

Dayton Area Wild Ones Chow and Chat at Indian Mound Reserve
Sunday, Oct. 18, 11:00 am; 2750 US Rt. 42 East, Cedarville

Round out the summer season with a DAWO luncheon! Pack your own lunch, share stories, meet new people, swap native seeds, and witness the beauty of the falls!

We have rented the covered pavilion at Indian Mound Reserve, so this event can happen rain or shine. There is a paved path from the parking lot to the pavilion. The same path leads to the overlook of the falls as well. Check the weather and dress appropriately, as this pavilion is covered but is open to the weather on all sides.

Everyone is encouraged to bring something to share as we mingle amongst ourselves. Need an idea? Photos of a blooming native flower, insect, or plant you want to identify (photos on your phone are fine); photos of your garden in full bloom; photos of a new native planting in your yard; or photos of your favorite moment from a DAWO social hike. You could bring part of a plant or even an insect in a humane container.

Want to swap some native seeds? This is highly encouraged! Please label the seeds with the common name and, if you can, the scientific name as well. This will make it easier for someone to decide if that plant will grow in their yard. Even if you do not have seeds to swap, bring empty envelopes and a pen to take seeds home. Native plant people love to share!

The best part of this Chow and Chat? Making new friends to while away the winter with!

Bats are among the most important and misunderstood wildlife in our communities. Join experts from Bat Conservation International to explore how native plants, healthy insect populations, and thoughtful landscape design can help support bats. Learn about the ecological role of bats and discover practical ways to create habitat for North America's night flyers right in your own backyard.

Zoe Evans, rewilding coach and VP of Partnerships & Programs at Wildr shares a practical, science-informed framework for evaluating a home landscape, identifying its greatest habitat opportunities, and choosing actions that support more plants, insects, birds, and other wildlife.

Registration link coming soon.

No yard required. Learn how native plants can turn patios, balconies, containers, and other small spaces into meaningful habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. This practical panel will cover plant selection, container design, seasonal care, and realistic ways to support biodiversity in limited spaces.

Registration link coming soon.

Birds depend on healthy, connected habitats for food, shelter, nesting, and migration support. Join experts from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to explore how native plants and thoughtful landscape choices can support birdlife at home. Learn how gardens, yards, and community spaces can provide the insects, seeds, berries, cover, and habitat structure birds need throughout the year.

Registration link coming soon. 

Monarch butterflies depend on a network of habitats stretching across North America, and home landscapes can play an important role in their survival. Join experts from Monarch Joint Venture to explore the science behind monarch conservation, including the importance of milkweed, nectar resources, and regionally appropriate habitat. Learn practical ways to support monarchs through native landscaping and help sustain one of the world's most remarkable migrations.
 

Registration link coming soon.