Jun
5
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news editor
6/5/2009 1:00 AM
06/04/09 The Natural Areas Discovery series event at Gott Fen State Nature Preserve on Saturday, June 13 will give visitors a rare glimpse of the showy lady's slipper orchid in full bloom.
Gott Fen State Nature Preserve Hosts Lady's-Slipper Open House
Permit-only site open to the public on Saturday, June 13
COLUMBUS, OH - The Natural Areas Discovery series event at Gott Fen State Nature Preserve on Saturday, June 13 will give visitors a rare glimpse of the showy lady's slipper orchid in full bloom. The reservation-only Open House will begin at 10 a.m.
One of the finest boreal fens in the state, Gott Fen harbors more than 20 state-listed species including the largest population of showy lady's-slipper in the state. Other rarities include round-leaved sundew, grass-of-parnassus, shrubby cinquefoil and northern bayberry.
Visitors interested in attending the Lady's-slipper Open House must contact 440-632-3010 and register for naturalist-led hikes, which begin at 10 a.m. The site, normally closed to the public, does not have a trail system and visitors are asked to wear appropriate footwear for wet conditions.
Children who hike with their families during the special events 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.
Sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, the Natural Areas Discovery Series features scheduled hikes, interpretive activities and an opportunity for visitors to meet preserve staff. Programs are held from April to October. The next event is at Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve in Lake County.
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:
Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Natural Areas & Preserves
614. 265. 6520
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
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