Join us for a fall program ??



Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page [ [link removed] ].




2022-parks-header

Bookmark and Share [ [link removed] ]

*Ottawa County Parks & Recreation offers programming and volunteer opportunities year-round! **Visit the Program and Events Calendar [ [link removed] ] for details and registration. Call our Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing Park for more information: 616-786-4847.*

________________________________________________________________________


announcements
?? October ??

Scroll down to find information about ways to get outside this fall, as well as upcoming programs, events, and much more. "*Thank you for reading!*"

"Did someone forward you this message? Click here to sign up for your copy." [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Celebrating the Jenison Mill Segment and Secchia Grand Connection Arch ✂️
Ribbon Cutting

We had a great time celebrating the Jenison Mill Segment of the Idema Explorers Trail connecting Ottawa and Kent County marked by the Secchia Gateway Arch.

A very special thank you to the Secchia family, all of our speakers, volunteers and friends who joined us to honor Peter Secchia and celebrate the newest addition to the Idema Explorers Trail. Peter’s tireless work and leadership as co-chair of the Grand River Greenway Campaign helped pave the way for the resulting "Grand Connection".

This 1-mile segment is the final connection from a 2-mile existing segment of the Idema Explorers Trail in Georgetown Township to the existing trail system in Kent County. As a result, bike/pedestrian trail users in this area are now connected to 100-miles plus of trails in Kent County, including connections to Millennium Park, downtown Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids riverfront, as well as several other trails!

If you haven't enjoyed a ride along the trail, we encourage you to do so soon. It will be gorgeous this fall. "You can access the trail by parking at the smal log along Cottonwood Drive [ [link removed] ] or the parking area at the Grandville Clean Water Plant. [ [link removed] ] You can find a map of the segment below. "

We are grateful for our long-term partnerships and collaborators who have helped make this project come to life. We look forward to future projects along the Greenway! 🤝

Learn more about the Grand River Greenway: "grandrivergreenway.org [ [link removed] ]"
jenison mill map segment
________________________________________________________________________



Fall Native Plant Sale • Ottawa Conservation District [ [link removed] ]

October 7, 9 am - 1 pm | Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Plant Sale

Ottawa Conservation District (OCD) will be hosting their fall Native Plant Sale at the Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing on October 7 from 9 am-1 pm. The sale will offer a wide assortment of Michigan-grown native flowering plants, garden kits, and grasses as supplies last.

For day of plant availability, pricing and more visit: Native Plant Sale  [ [link removed] ]



________________________________________________________________________



Astronomy Day [ [link removed] ]

*October 14, 11 am - 2 pm | Hemlock Crossing*

Astronomy Day

Join the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA) for an afternoon in the park observing the sun and partial eclipse for Astronomy Day! The SAAA will have sun-viewing glasses available ($2.00, cash or check only) for purchase and other fun activities for people of all ages! Following outdoor activities, there will be a presentation indoors at 7 pm on the Fall Sky. Learn more: holland-saaa.org [ [link removed] ]

>> Share this event with your friends on Facebook! << [ [link removed] ]

Sign up [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Wheelie Scary Ride with Velo Kids [ [link removed] ]

October 28, 10 am - 12 pm | Riley Trails

Wheelie Scary Ride

Grab your favorite Halloween costume, your bike and helmet, and join Velo Kids for a Halloween bike ride! There will be a short bike course for the littles. All ages are welcome! No bike? No worry! Borrow a bike and helmet from the Velo Kids bike library. We can’t wait to see you on the trails! Learn more: velo-kids.com

>> Share this event with your friends on Facebook! << [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



2023 Mug Club Photo Contest

Have you taken a bird photo in Ottawa County in 2023 that would look great on our 2024 Mug Club limited edition mug? We want to see it!

*Submission deadline is October 31, 2023.*

________________________________________________________________________



How to enter:

Submit original image files (up to 3/person) online: "*news.miottawa.org/mugclubcontest [ [link removed] ]*"

________________________________________________________________________



birds
*Mug Club Membership *

2024 Mug Club Memberships will be available for sale online (more details to come). Members receive a limited edition mug and fun birding perks throughout the year. Funds raised through the Mug Club support birding programs. The mugs and membership make great gifts!

Sign up for birding updates for more information about Mug Club: miottawa.org/birding [ [link removed] ]



________________________________________________________________________


stewardship banner
________________________________________________________________________



Awareness, Art & Action: Seeds Please! [ [link removed] ]

October 7, 9:30-11:30 am | Hemlock Crossing

Awareness

Seeing seeds? Us too! Join us for a seedy hike with an outdoor educator, then learn how to write and illustrate what you observed and learned. We’ll wrap up by helping the Stewardship Crew collect seeds for the Ottawa County Parks seed bank. *Registration is required; $10/person.*

The Awareness, Art & Action program series [ [link removed] ] provides participants an opportunity to grow in their awareness of the natural world as a catalyst for both artistic creativity and active stewardship.

Share this event with your friends on Facebook!  [ [link removed] ]


Sign up [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Volunteer Workdays [ [link removed] ]

Do you want to get involved volunteering? Register online: "miOttawa.org/ocpevents [ [link removed] ]"

volunteers

*Native Seed Collection and Invasive Species Removal*


* Oct 7, 1-3 pm - Hemlock Crossing Park  [ [link removed] ]

*Park Cleanup *


* Oct 14, 10 am-12 pm - Kirk Park [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 14, 1-3 pm - Tunnel Park [ [link removed] ]

*Native Seed Collection*


* Oct 21, 1-3 pm - Upper Macatawa Natural Area (84th Ave) [ [link removed] ]

"Bring work gloves, insect repellant, and appropriate attire for the outdoors. All tools, drinking water, and snacks will be provided. All ages welcome; 16 and under must be with an adult. Workdays are cancelled if raining (or snowing)."



________________________________________________________________________



Pigeon Creek Logging Update [ [link removed] ]

All southside trails are CLOSED at Pigeon Creek Park. The north side of the park has been reopened. We will keep you updated on when southside trails reopen. 

________________________________________________________________________


programs and eventsspacer
October Programs [ [link removed] ]

*Click on a program date to be redirected to our registration page for that program! *

________________________________________________________________________



Into Nature

Bird Walks

"Registration not required but appreciated"

Whether you are an avid birder or just desiring to experience birds beyond your backyard, join us as we search for warblers, sparrows, and more on these birding walks that highlight parks all around the county. Trail conditions vary depending on the park. Be prepared for muddy and wet trails.


* Oct 4, 9-11 am - Stearns Creek [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 18, 9-11 am - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Awareness, Art & Action: Seeds Please! 

"Registration required; $10/person (ages 12+) "

Seeing seeds? Us too! Join us for a seedy hike with a naturalist, then learn how to write and illustrate what you observed and learned. We’ll wrap up by helping the Stewardship Crew collect seeds for the Ottawa County Parks seed bank. The Awareness, Art & Action program series provides participants an opportunity to grow in their awareness of the natural world as a catalyst for both artistic creativity and active stewardship.


* Oct 7, 9:30-11:30 am - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Astronomy

"Registration not required but appreciated"

Join the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association for an astronomy program. They will have the observatory open and other telescopes available to view from (weather permitting). Learn more at holland-saaa.org [ [link removed] ]

*Fall Sky - *What is up in the sky tonight? Which constellations, planets and deep sky objects are visible. 


* Oct 14, 7-8 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Waterfowl Birding Field Trips

"Registration required; $10/person (ages 12+) "

Witness the spectacle of waterfowl migration! Be prepared for cool/wet weather, and bring your own food and water. Details will be emailed in advance to those registered.

*Part 1 -* Lakeshore Waterfowl will start at the Holland State Park and will visit other local waterfowl hotspots in the Holland area.


* Oct 28, 8-11 am - Holland State Park [ [link removed] ]

*Part 2* - Wastewater Waterfowl will visit one of Michigan’s premier waterfowl birding locations at the Muskegon Wastewater facility.


* Oct 28, 1-4 pm - Muskegon Wastewater [ [link removed] ]

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS - MICHIGAN’S MARSUPIAL: THE VIRGINIA OPOSSUM

"Registration appreciated (ages 10+)"
Did you know that Michigan is home to a marsupial as well? The Virginia Opossum is one of the most unique and bizarre creatures around, and it may be lurking in your own backyard! You’ll be amazed at the role these creatures play in nature and how they get the job done!


* Oct 29, 3-4:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Recreation & Health

INTRO TO NATURE JOURNALING

"Registration required; $5/person (ages 10+)"
Many of us seek ways to better connect with nature. Nature journaling helps us do this and you do not need to know
anything about nature, drawing, or writing to begin! Learn how to start a nature journal, a few drawing basics, and some simple tricks to help you be successful.


* Oct 7, 3-4:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

FIRESIDE YOGA

"Registration required; $10/person (ages 18+)"
Come practice yoga fireside at the Nature Center! All levels of experience are welcome. *Yoga mats not provided.


* Oct 8, 3-4 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

EAT GREEN. STAY ACTIVE. LIVE WELL.

"Registration required; $55/person (ages 18+)"
Explore new nutritious ways to indulge in fresh fall favorites, taste the ‘pick of the patch’ and discover the top seasonal superstars to power up your plate to make your meals greener, more interesting and delicious. Tour the colors afterwards on hiking trails - a fall feast for your eyes!


* Oct 14, 1:30-3 pm - Rosy Mound [ [link removed] ]

THRU HIKE!

"Registration required; $5/person (ages 10+)"
Get out and enjoy the transition to fall as you venture ALL THE WAY THRU these amazing parks! A guide will lead you, so you’ll have all the more reason to soak in the beauty of each park.


* Oct 15, 2-4 pm - Riverside Park [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 21, 2-4 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

NATURE JOURNALING: LITTLE LANDSCAPES

"Registration required; $5/person (ages 10+)"
Gather each month to learn new drawing and writing techniques specific to the theme while enjoying community connection with fellow journalers. *Journals are not provided.


* Oct 21, 10-11:30 am - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

MOONLIGHT NIGHT HIKE

"Registration required; $5/person (ages 10+)"
Experience your favorite parks in a whole new way and see what nocturnal creatures lurk as you explore by moonlight! Please bring a flashlight.


* Oct 27, 7-8:30 pm - Paw Paw Park East [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Kids & Families

Wildlife Encounter - KIDS! The Webby World of Spiders

"Registration required; $5/child (ages 5-10 accompanied by an adult) "

The Wildlife Encounter - Kids! series introduces children to wildlife found in our own yards, parks, and region. Adult must remain with child for duration of program.
*The Webby World of Spiders*
Take an adventure into the world of spiders! What makes them unique? What kinds are there? How can you find and observe them? Go on a spider hunt with your guide to find out!


* Oct 8, 3-4:30 pm - Grand River Park [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 22, 3-4:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Tuned into Nature

"Registration required; $5/person (ages 2-4)"

Kids ages 2-4 can bring their favorite grown up to sing songs, dance, and learn about nature together. We'll spend time making and moving to music based on a nature theme and go outside for a walk to explore it outdoors. Adult must stay with child for duration of program. 


* Oct 25, 9:30-10:30 am - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

StoryWalk

We’re collaborating with local libraries to continue providing StoryWalks this summer! Walk through the pages of a book as you make your way along a park path. These are self-guided programs, and the stories are available during park hours. "Brought to you by Herrick Main Library, Loutit District Library, and Herrick North Branch Library. "


* Oct 2-15 | The Three Billy Goats Buenos | Paw Paw Park West [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 16-29 | If you Find a Leaf| Riley Trails [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 30- Nov 26 | Change Sings | Paw Paw Park East [ [link removed] ]
* Oct 30-Nov 26 | The More We Get Together | Hemlock Crossing  [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Friday Public Observatory Nights

Observatory

The observatory at Hemlock Crossing Park will be open to the public on Fridays at 9 pm. These events are weather dependent and will be cancelled if overcast. Make sure to check the calendar at the bottom of this page before you head out to the park: * holland-saaa.org [ [link removed] ]*


* Oct 6, 8 pm | Public Observing
* Oct 13, 8 pm | Public Observing
* Oct 20, 7 pm | Public Observing
* Oct 27, 7 pm | Public Observing

For more details and weather cancellations,* visit miOttawa.org/observatory [ [link removed] ] *



________________________________________________________________________



Open Houses

Weaver House

Join us for an inside look at the Weaver House at Pine Bend Park. These open houses are hosted by Friends of Ottawa County Parks and they will be available to share historical information and show you around the house.


* Oct 15, 1-4 pm - Pine Bend Park [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________





*Show us how you enjoy your parks!*

*Connect with us on Instagram [ [link removed] ] by tagging your park photos @OttawaCountyParks [ [link removed] ] or #OttawaCountyParks [ [link removed] ]*

*OR*

*Follow us on Facebook and tag us @OttawaCountyParksandRecreation  [ [link removed] ]*






Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page [ [link removed] ].

Parks logo

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission | 12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive, Michigan 49460 | 616-738-4810

Visit miOttawa.org/parks to learn more about the 7,000 acres of parks and open spaces available for your enjoyment. Operations, improvements, and programs are funded by grants, private donations [ [link removed] ], and a parks millage. If you own a $150,000 home, you invest $26 annually in opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature education today and for future generations. *Thank you!** *

STAY CONNECTED: Visit us on Facebook [ [link removed] ] [ [link removed] ] Visit us on YouTube [ [link removed] ] Sign up for email updates [ [link removed] ]

[ [link removed] ] 



Linked In [ [link removed] ]



*
All programs & events are brought to you by the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners:*
Chairperson Joe Moss | Vice-Chairperson Sylvia Rhodea | Gretchen Cosby | Roger Bergman | Lucy Ebel | Jacob Bonnema | Rebekah Curran | Roger Belknap | Kyle Terpstra | Doug Zylstra | Allison Miedema

Questions? Contact Us <[email protected]>

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES:  Manage Preferences [ [link removed] ]  |  Unsubscribe [ [link removed] ]  |  Help [ subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com ]

________________________________________________________________________

This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Ottawa County, Michigan · 12220 Fillmore Street · West Olive, MI 49460 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]