With over 1,200 acres of parkland, Mentor is a nature-lovers paradise. From the urban oasis of the Garfield Park pond to the pristine wilderness of the Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve, you can find many opportunities to connect with nature.
To help you learn more about our parks and natural spaces, City of Mentor Naturalists will be presenting programs during the summer months to teach, inspire and introduce residents to the unique aspects of the Mentor ecosystem.
On June 21 (4 – 6 PM) Grandparents are invited to bring grandchildren to explore the creek at Garfield Park. A Naturalist will be on hand to guide the group in discovering Nymphs, Waterbugs and Larvae, Oh My! Free but you must Preregister by June 16
Kids ages 7 -12 can learn more about Mentor’s Owl population by registering for the Owl Pellet Lab discovery walk on July 9 (4-6 PM). Tools will be provided to examine owl pellets and learn what they tell us about the mighty birds. Cost: Resident $8/Nonresident $9.
Adults 18+ can join our Naturalists as they go Paddling in the Marsh on July 23 (10 AM – Noon). Your expert guide will point out flora and fauna unique to the Marsh. Bring your own kayak or rent one from the Mentor Lagoons Marina. Cost $10/own kayak or $25/renting kayak
Nature lovers of any age will enjoy our Invasive Awareness Hike on August 13 (9-11 AM) Learn what Ohio plants are invasive and how to best eliminate them to encourage the growth of native species. The hike is free, but you must preregister by August 13.
To find out more or to register, call Mentor Recreation at 440-974-5720 or online.