Future Naturalists, Leaders & Philanthropists?

We are always thrilled to see children making the connection to nature, understanding how all living things are interrelated and developing a heart for the natural world. Lauren Heba, age 8,  Lauren Sparow, age 8, and Juliana Sparow, age 9, (pictured left to right in the photo below) dropped by recently to show us the posters they created to promote the protection of wild animals and nature. We thought we'd share their message to a wider audience by posting a photo of them with their handiwork in this space.

By the way, the girls are regular visitors to Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, thanks to their grandmother Pat Morriss of Lakewood. Nice job ladies!

A rare opportunity to experience one of Cleveland’s hidden treasures is coming up next month. “Nature in the Neighborhood" --the annnual "Open House" at the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve (at Dike 14)-- will take place Saturday, September 25 during prime fall migration.

The Preserve, located near the Cleveland Lakefront State Park, will be open for self-guided hikes from 7:30 am to 2:00 p.m. Enjoy birds, butterflies and stunning views of Cleveland’s skyline and Lake Erie along a one-mile trail. You're asked to aarrive 15 minutes before you want to begin your walk to sign a waiver and receive additional information.

Need Directions and help parking? Exit #177 from I-90. Parking is available at Gordon State Park. Entrances from North Marginal at E. 72nd Street, from North Marginal between E. 72nd and MLK, and park office entrance from Lakeshore Boulevard east of MLK. Additional space at E. 55th State Park (Exit SR 2).

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is a member of the sponsoring Dike 14 Environmental Education Collaborative. If you can't make it to Nature in the Neighborhood and/or would like to enjoy a guided experience for families, check out our Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve Family Day coming up on October 17. This 2-hour, hands-on experience for families with children ages 5 and up requires pre-registration and a fee. Call 440-871-2900.

The photo above was taken on a past Preserve tour by our Junior Naturalists and families.