Apr
14
Written by:
news editor
4/14/2009 1:00 AM
04/14/09 ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves will be conducting a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided hike at Shoemaker State Nature Preserve.
ODNR to Dedicate New Nature Preserve in Adams County
Public invited to ribbon-cutting
PEEBLES, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas and Preserves will be conducting a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided hike at Shoemaker State Nature Preserve on Saturday, April 25 at 1 p.m.
Protecting a significant natural area in Ohio while also memorializing a beloved family member is a unique opportunity. Inviting the public to enjoy the area is an added bonus. This 22-acre preserve was recently donated to ODNR by Joyce Shoemaker, in memory of her late husband, Alvie. A portion of the land had been in Mrs. Shoemaker's family for more than 100 years.
"I wanted to share the beauty of our land with future generations of Ohioans," said Mrs. Shoemaker.
Several significant natural features including seven rare plants are found at this Adams County preserve. Not only botanically significant, the site is geologically significant as well. It features two natural arches, dolomite cliffs and slump blocks. The preserve also protects both banks of Cedar Fork for nearly a mile. Cedar Fork is a tributary of Scioto Brush Creek, one of Ohio's finest waterways.
"The division is thankful for the generosity and foresight of Joyce Shoemaker in gifting this land to the people of Ohio," said Chief Steve Maurer, ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves.
Appropriate for all ages, the dedication program will feature a ribbon-cutting followed by a naturalist-led hike along an easy trail, interpreting the geology and flora of this small but diverse site. The event will be held rain or shine at Shoemaker State Nature Preserve, 165 Pine Gap Road, Peebles in Adams County. GPS coordinates are N38°57.336' W083°20.538'. For more information, call 937-545-8313.
Children who hike with their families during the special event and throughout the year can receive credit towards the ODNR Explore the Outdoors Hike a Trail activity. Explore the Outdoors is a hands-on family program that gives Ohio children the opportunity to reunite with nature, improve their physical and emotional health and discover the rewards of becoming environmental stewards. Program information and downloadable activity guides can be found at www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com.
ODNR's Division of Natural Areas and Preserves manages a statewide system of 134 state nature preserves and 14 scenic rivers. To learn more, visit www.ohiodnr.com/dnap.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
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For further information, contact:
Martin McAllister, ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves
937. 545. 8313
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
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