Medina County parks offer March events

From spring bird migration and frog choruses to overnight astronomy and hands-on history, Medina County Park District’s March calendar is packed with opportunities to welcome the changing season outdoors.

Nature centers and parks across the county will host free programs for all ages throughout the month, along with a handful of specialty classes and volunteer events designed to get residents moving, learning and connected to the land.

Birds take center stage early in the month and throughout March as migration season begins. On Sunday, March 1, the Discovery Drop-in series returns to Oenslager Nature Center with “What Do Birds Eat?” Visitors can stop by any time from 1–4 p.m. to explore bird diets through hands-on activities, including making treats for backyard birds and observing feeders from the bird-viewing room.

Later in the month, bird enthusiasts can deepen their knowledge during Wild About Waterfowl weekends March 14–15 and again March 21–22 at Susan Hambley Nature Center. Visitors can learn how to identify migrating ducks and other waterfowl before heading out on a self-guided hike around Brunswick Lake.

Several guided bird programs also dot the calendar, including a Woodcock Walk on Wednesday, March 11, along Chippewa Inlet Trail. Participants will learn about the elusive shorebird’s unusual courtship dance during a short evening walk timed to coincide with peak activity.

Those looking to stretch their legs can choose from multiple hiking options. The A Healthy Dose of Nature hiking series offers vigorous, three- to five-mile hikes March 7 at Carolyn Ludwig Mugrage Park and March 19 at Buckeye Woods Park. Designed for ages 10 through adult, the continuous hikes are led by naturalists and volunteers and require no registration.

Seniors have a chance to hit the trail during Senior Strides on Tuesday, March 10, at Buckeye Woods Park. The monthly social hike covers one to two miles at a relaxed pace and emphasizes conversation and community as much as exercise.

March also offers quieter ways to engage with nature. Gentle Yoga returns to Krabill Lodge on March 12, blending breathing, meditation and movement in an hourlong class suitable for all levels. A small fee applies, and participants should bring their own mats.

Families and homeschoolers will find several educational programs tailored to younger learners. Creative Writing for Homeschoolers on March 12 uses nature as inspiration for poetry and storytelling, while Homeschoolers Outdoor Education: Ponds and Wetlands on March 17 explores frogs, algae and plant life through indoor and outdoor activities.

Preschool-aged children can dig into science during Tales for Tots on March 19, where stories and investigation focus on animal scat – presented in a sanitary, kid-friendly way. Later in the month, Preschoolers in the Garden: Let’s Grow Herbs on March 24 introduces young gardeners to fragrant plants used in cooking and crafts.

History and hands-on learning come together March 14 at Oenslager Nature Center with Notable Women of Medina County, highlighting the lives and legacies of Letha House and Ruth Oenslager through storytelling and period attire.

Creative adults can try their hand at Basket Weaving 101 on March 21, crafting a fruit bowl basket during a guided workshop. Class size is limited and advance registration is required.

March also offers multiple opportunities to give back through Woodland Health Day of Service volunteer events. Held March 14, March 22, March 28 and March 29 at locations throughout the county, the sessions focus on removing invasive plants from sensitive habitats. No experience is required, and all ages are welcome.

One of the month’s most unusual events takes place after dark. On Saturday, March 21, the Messier Marathon invites the public to join members of the Cuyahoga Astronomical Association for casual overnight stargazing at Letha House Lodge West. Participants can drop in to observe galaxies, nebulae and star clusters throughout the night, weather permitting.

The month wraps up with A Visit to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology on March 28, where naturalists share photos, videos and insights from the world-renowned birding destination, and a Spring Break Junior Naturalist Camp spanning March 31 and April 2 for youth interested in wildlife and citizen science.

A complete list of March programs, including registration deadlines and location details, is available at medinacountyparks.com.