Wildflower hike designed by naturalist

May31
May31

Spring wildflowers will be in bloom throughout Richfield Heritage Preserve during April and May. To help people enjoy these woodland beauties, the Friends of Richfield Heritage Preserve are offering a do-it-yourself hike to follow on a smartphone any day during park hours. The two-mile loop starts just south of The Lodge and follows the Buckeye Trail through one of the most scenic sections of the park.

Ecologist Jennifer Windus, president of the Ohio Invasive Plants Council and vice president of the Ohio Natural Areas and Preserves Association, designed the hike. Windus is retired from the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserve and guides volunteers and ONAPA's stewardship assistants on projects that help improve the state's natural areas and preserves, including the Richfield Heritage Preserve. She also advises the Friends Invasive Species Management Team.

Download the hiking guide at friendsofrhp.org to get the best view of the Preserve’s spring ephemerals. The woodland beauties appear as the weather warms, but not all at once, so plan to return to catch successive displays. The Friends have placed informational signs along the trail.

A more in-depth, in-person hike will be offered on Saturday, May 14. Details will be provided in the May issue of this publication. ∞