Explore the active side of Dayton with the return of the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, a Five Rivers MetroParks event featuring two days of outdoor adventure that celebrates Dayton as the Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest. The festival is held at Eastwood MetroPark (park side), 1385 Harshman Rd. in Dayton, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2. Admission and parking are free.
five rivers metroparks
Alexis Larsen Joins Five River MetroParks
Five Rivers MetroParks’ has announced that Alexis Larsen has joined it’s executive leadership team as its new chief of philanthropy, starting today.
Larsen comes to MetroParks from the Dayton Art Institute (DAI), where she served as the external affairs director for 10 years. During her time at the museum, Larsen oversaw staff and volunteers in fundraising more than $16 million for the DAI. This included major and planned gifts; solicitation of donors and sponsorships; annual fund campaigns; membership programs; special events; and management of corporate, foundation and government grant submissions.
In addition, Larsen has extensive knowledge in consumer research and community and media engagement. She served as a liaison to the 64-volunteer member DAI Associate Board, which supports the museum’s two largest signature fundraising events, Art Ball and Oktoberfest. In 2019, Larsen was responsible for planning and executing the museum’s centennial year community events and programming.
Prior to her time at the DAI, Larsen served for 13 years in a variety of roles at Cox Ohio Media and the Dayton Daily News, and she is still the newspaper’s food critic.
“Leading the philanthropy and fundraising efforts for Five Rivers MetroParks as the chief of philanthropy is the opportunity of a lifetime and a chance to give back to what I am most passionate about — outdoor recreation, conservation and connecting people to nature,” Larsen said. “I’m excited to get started in this new role building new partnerships, opening doors to impactful giving in the community, and identifying support for initiatives, projects, programs and services that are needed beyond the current budget. Impactful philanthropy will help Five Rivers MetroParks accelerate opportunities to create an even brighter future to support conservation locally and provide healthy outdoor experiences for everyone in our community.”
At Five Rivers MetroParks, Larsen will oversee the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation and serve as the agency’s liaison with the James M. Cox, Jr. Arboretum Foundation and Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation. She will manage the philanthropy functional area’s staff and lead all of Five Rivers MetroParks’ philanthropic and development efforts. This includes sponsorships, naming rights and planned giving, as well as the Foundation’s tribute program, champions program and its Access to Nature financial assistance program. Larsen also will oversee the launch and development of MetroParks’ new Land Conservation Endowment Fund, which allows donors to support MetroParks’ conservation efforts to maintain the more than 16,000 acres the agency protects and strategically acquire properties that protect and connect natural areas.
“We’re so excited to welcome Alexis to the Five Rivers MetroParks team,” said Becky Benná, Five Rivers MetroParks executive director and CEO. “We look forward to working with her in support of MetroParks’ mission to provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection to nature and to protect our region’s natural heritage. Alexis is a proven leader, and we’re confident she will take our philanthropic and development efforts to the next level.”
Larsen is a graduate of Wright State University with a bachelor of arts degree in mass communications. She is involved with the Association of Fundraising Professionals, is a graduate of Leadership Dayton and was named one of Women in Business Networking’s 25 Women to Watch in 2019. Larsen and her husband, Dave Schweitzer, are longtime residents of Dayton’s McPherson Town neighborhood.
ABOUT THE FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS FOUNDATION
The Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation, established in 2014, was created to provide Five Rivers MetroParks with a 501(c)(3) entity for securing philanthropic funding for special projects, programming and an endowment. The foundation provides a way for donors to support Five Rivers MetroParks with charitable contributions that support all or one specific MetroPark. Donations also can be directed to support Five Rivers MetroParks’ educational and recreational services, as well as conservation initiatives. The foundation is led by a volunteer board committed to the mission, master plan and strategic plan for Five Rivers MetroParks.
Nominate a Local Educator Who Uses Nature as a Classroom
Five Rivers MetroParks is accepting nominations for its seventh annual OUTStanding Teacher Award, open to Dayton-area classroom educators who teach any subject from pre-K through high school. Nominations are due Jan 31, 2022.
A winner will be selected from each of the following categories:
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- Rising Star (less than 10 years of teaching experience)
- Leader (10 to 20 years of teaching experience)
- Lifetime Achievement (more than 20 years of teaching experience)
“During these unprecedented times, nature is integral for mental and physical wellness, and also a perfect venue for students to safely learn about our world,” said MetroParks education coordinator Joshua York. “We have amazing teachers in the greater Dayton region who have recognized the power of hands-on learning with nature. This award brings the recognition they deserve and spreads awareness of their good work throughout their school and community.”
Previous winner Brian Brogan.
Awardees will be announced and celebrated during the Miami Valley Leave No Child Inside Summit this spring. Winning teachers will also receive an award package containing:
- Outdoor educational materials to assist in connecting students to the environment
- Plant kit with plants selected for the winning teacher’s school
- EECO (Environmental Education Council of Ohio) membership and money to use toward the 101 Conference at Camp Kern, held annually the first weekend of October
- A one-year membership to the James M. Cox, Jr. Arboretum Foundation and transportation for their class for a field trip to Cox Arboretum MetroPark (or an alternative experience if an in-person field trip is not an option)
Funded through the James M. Cox Jr. Arboretum Foundation, the award is for teachers providing students with outdoor, environmental experiences that inspire an interest in and positive attitudes about nature. “Research has shown that kids who spend time in nature are happier, healthier and smarter, and so it’s important to celebrate teachers who utilize the outdoors as an education resource,” York said.
Previous winner Suzanne Mitolo
Anyone can nominate a teacher by writing a short essay or producing a video (less than five minutes long) that answers the following:
- Why do you feel this teacher is deserving of the OUTstanding Teacher Award?
- In what ways does this teacher get students outside during the school day?
- In what ways does this teacher weave nature into the curriculum?
- Does this teacher get students outdoors after typical school hours? Please provide specifics about what the teacher does.
- What are the most significant positive impacts the nominee has made on other teachers and the school community?
- How does your candidate go above and beyond leading his/her/their students in outdoor experiences? Please provide specific examples of what the teacher does.
- How does this teacher utilize outdoor space at the school? Has he/she/them created or enhanced a green school yard?
- Why are you nominating this person?
Additionally, award submissions should include two photos of the teacher that capture the great work he/she is doing getting kids outside and bringing nature into the curriculum and classroom.
Teachers can self-nominate. Nominations can be submitted by completing an online form and either posting a video to YouTube or uploading the written essay. Information on judging criteria can be found online at metroparks.org/outstanding. Videos do not have to be professionally produced, as the content of the message is what will be judged. Please be as specific as possible in your nomination, so judges have a clear understanding of the amazing work and the impact of your award nominee.
Community volunteers with a background in outdoor education will judge the awards. Five Rivers MetroParks employees and board members of the James M. Cox Jr. Foundation, Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation and Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation and their immediate families are not eligible.
Five Rivers MetroParks Launches New Trailside Camping
The Miami Valley now has a new option for spending a night beneath the stars: trailside camping.
These sites join MetroParks’ 23 existing camping options, which include front country campsites, accessible by motor vehicles, and backcountry campsites, accessible on foot. The trailside campsites support travelers without a motor vehicle who are passing through the region and need a place to stop before continuing their journey.
“Trailside camping fills a niche to support hikers, cyclists and paddlers who are traveling through Montgomery County on the paved trail network, water trails, and long-distance hiking and bicycle touring routes,” said Brent Anslinger, MetroParks’ outdoor recreation program manager. “These travelers may be out for a few days or on a multi-month adventure that covers thousands of miles. Trailside camping is one more critical amenity that welcomes adventure seekers to the area.”
The new trailside campsites are located along seven long-distance touring routes that run through Montgomery County:
- Buckeye Trail
- North Country National Scenic Trail
- Great American Rail-Trail
- Chicago to New York City Bicycle Route
- Great Miami Riverway Alternate to the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route
- U.S. Bicycle Route 50
- Great Miami River Watershed National Water Trail
The sites also support Dayton’s designation as a Trail Town of two long-distance trails, the Buckeye Trail and North Country National Scenic Trail, and build the region’s growing reputation as The Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest. Trailside camping also supports MetroParks’ 10-year comprehensive master plan and park master plans.
“Dayton is The Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest in part because of all the regional and national trails and routes that pass through the area, including Ohio’s only National Scenic Trail and only National Water Trail, among others,” Anslinger said. “It’s exciting to invite people traveling these routes — as well as anyone seeking multi-day experiences on Miami Valley Trails, the nation’s largest paved trail network with more than 350 miles to explore — to experience Montgomery County and the Great Miami Riverway in a new way.”
Trailside campsites are open year-round. Each can accommodate two small tents and up to six people, with a two-night maximum at the same site. Camping is by permit only but can be booked in advance or on the spot by visiting metroparks.org/reservations.
These primitive trailside camping sites are located in shaded areas with a restroom nearby in three MetroParks:
- Island MetroPark, 101 E. Helena St. — located near the Great Miami River Trail and along the Great Miami River Water Trail on the northern edge of the park near a new prairie.
- Eastwood MetroPark, 1385 Harshman Rd. — located between the Mad River Trail and Buckeye Trail
- Taylorsville MetroPark, 2000 U.S. 40 — located on the south side of the dam along the Great Miami River Trail
The cost to reserve a trailside campsite is $5 per night during peak season, from April 1 through Oct. 31, and $3 per night from Nov. 1 through March 31.
To develop its trailside camping options, Five Rivers MetroParks worked with local, regional and national partners that share the strategic goal of enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities that allow people to connect with nature. Partners include Bike Miami Valley, the Great Miami Riverway, Buckeye Trail Association, North Country Trail Association, National Park Service, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and Adventure Cycling Association. Sources from these organizations can be provided upon request.
Register Now for MetroParks 2nd annual Trails Challenge
The MetroParks Trails Challenge is back for 2021, with new trails and more time in which to complete them. Starting Feb. 1 and running through Oct. 31, participants can check off 28 trails for hiking, walking, cycling, paddling, running, mountain biking and even horseback riding.
Five Rivers MetroParks locations’ are home to 160 miles of natural surface trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The greater Dayton region is home to more than 340 miles of paved trails — the nation’s largest paved trail network — and 270 miles of river corridor.
More than 900 people registered for the inaugural 2020 MetroParks Trails Challenge, with participants completing more than 4,000 miles of human-powered travel — that’s longer than the Amazon River.
“Because participants explore the trails on their own time and in their own way, it’s easy to practice safe social distancing while participating,” said Randy Ryberg, MetroParks outdoor recreation coordinator. “The MetroParks Trails Challenge is a convenient way to improve your physical and mental health while connecting with nature and enjoying an active lifestyle.”
How to participate:
- Visit www.metroparks.org/trailschallenge to register, access the 2021 MetroParks Trails Log and learn more about the trails challenge.
- Hike, bike, ride, paddle or horseback ride the designated trails — in any order and at your own convenience. Use theMetroParks mobile app to learn more about the individual challenges. Those who have not yet downloaded the app can do so for free by visiting www.metroparks.org/mobile.
- Track your progress on the printable trails log. Everyone can participate — including children.
- Submit your trails log no later than Oct. 31 to be eligible to receive prizes.
How to win prizes:
- Complete just one trail in the challenge, and you’ll be entered to win a $100 gift card to a local outdoor gear or bike shop of your choosing. You’ll receive one entry for each trail you complete. Complete all 28 trails and get 28 chances to win.
- New for 2021, youth ages 14 and younger who complete just one trail will be entered to win a Kids Adventure Pack, which includes cool outdoor gear. Youth also will receive one entry for each trail they complete.
- Also new this year, everyone who completes just one mountain bike trail will be entered to win a Huffy Mountain Bike. Participants will receive one entry for each mountain bike trail completed. Complete all three trails and get three chances to win.
- Everyone who completes at least 18 trails will receive a MetroParks Trails Challenge sticker. Also, 100 people completing at least 18 trails will be selected at random to receive a MetroParks Trails Challenge T-Shirt.
- Winners be notified by e-mail or phone. Prizes will be distributed after Oct. 31.
How to plan ahead:
- Some of the trails in the challenge are segments of larger trails, so participants may have to hike, bike or shuttle back to their starting point. Other trails included are loops, starting and ending at the same point.
- Some of the trails require special gear, such as a mountain bike or kayak, but participants can walk, hike, run or jog 21 of the 28 trails.
- Participants must use necessary safety equipment, including a helmet and lifejacket, during their adventures.
- Some park and trail amenities, such as water fountains, remain closed to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Please visit www.metroparks.org/covid to learn which amenities are closed.
- Check the status of trails at MetroParks’ alerts page (metroparks.org/alerts), the Miami Conservancy District’s Trail Conditions page and the Miami Valley Trails’ alerts page.
Participants and Five Rivers MetroParks visitors should always follow the CDC’s recommendations, particularly for social distancing and wearing face coverings, while spending time outdoors.
Nominate an OUTStanding Teacher!
Five Rivers MetroParks is accepting nominations for its sixth annual OUTStanding Teacher Award, open to Dayton-area classroom educators who teach any subject from pre-K through high school. Nominations are due Jan 31, 2021.
Photo taken prior to the pandemic and does not reflect current best practices for COVID-19.
A winner will be selected from each of the following categories:
- Rising Star (less than 10 years of teaching experience)
- Leader (10 to 20 years of teaching experience)
- Lifetime Achievement (more than 20 years of teaching experience)
“During these unprecedented times, nature is integral for mental and physical wellness, and also a perfect venue for students to safely learn about the natural world,” said MetroParks education coordinator Joshua York. “Whether some teachers have pivoted to incorporate more outdoors time in their classroom or have always utilized nature in their curriculum, educators who connect children to the outdoors deserve special recognition.”
Awardees will be announced and celebrated in a virtual format this spring. Winning teachers will also receive an award package containing:
- Outdoor educational materials to assist in connecting students to the environment
- Plant kit with plants selected for the winning teacher’s school
- EECO (Environmental Education Council of Ohio) membership and money to use toward the 101 Conference at Camp Kern, held annually the first weekend of October
- A one-year membership to the James M. Cox, Jr. Arboretum Foundation and transportation for their class for a field trip to Cox Arboretum MetroPark (or an alternative experience if an in-person field trip is not an option)
Funded through the James M. Cox Jr. Arboretum Foundation, the award is for teachers providing students with outdoor, environmental experiences that inspire an interest in and positive attitudes about nature.
“Research has shown that kids who spend time in nature are happier, healthier and smarter, and so it’s important to celebrate teachers who utilize the outdoors as an education resource,” York said.
Anyone can nominate a teacher by writing a short essay or producing a video (less than five minutes long) that answers the following:
- Why do you feel this teacher is deserving of the OUTstanding Teacher Award?
- In what ways does this teacher get students outside during the school day?
- In what ways does this teacher weave nature into the curriculum?
- Does this teacher get students outdoors after typical school hours? Please provide specifics about what the teacher does.
- What are the most significant positive impacts the nominee has made on other teachers and the school community?
- How does your candidate go above and beyond leading his/her students in outdoor experiences? Please provide specific examples of what the teacher does.
- How does this teacher utilize outdoor space at the school? Has he/she created or enhanced a green school yard?
- Why are you nominating this person?
Additionally, award submissions should include two photos of the teacher that capture the great work he/she is doing getting kids outside and bringing nature into the curriculum and classroom.
Teachers can self-nominate. Nominations can be submitted by completing an online form and either posting a video to YouTube or uploading the written essay. Information on judging criteria can be found online at metroparks.org/outstanding. Videos do not have to be professionally produced, as the content of the message is what will be judged. Please be as specific as possible in your nomination, so judges have a clear understanding of the amazing work and the impact of your award nominee.
Community volunteers with a background in outdoor education will judge the awards.Five Rivers MetroParks employees and board members of the James M. Cox Jr. Foundation, Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation and Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation and their immediate families are not eligible.
New App is Mobile Field Guide to Five Rivers MetroParks’ Parks and Trails.
Five Rivers MetroParks visitors now have a new way to access information about parks and trails from their mobile devices. Using the OuterSpatial platform, MetroParks’ new mobile application is free and available for both iPhone and Android devices. The app includes offline mapping and navigation — and access continues even without a cell phone signal.
Visitors can use the app to:
- plan a visit to a park or trail and make the most of a visit once there
- navigate while on trails
- discover new places
- locate parking, restrooms, picnic areas and other park amenities
- access information about ecological, geological and historical points of interest
- receive notifications about hazards, closures and other timely information
- follow outings selected by MetroParks’ staff
- share experiences and photos and connect with others who love the outdoors
- tell MetroParks’ staff about maintenance and other issues
“All MetroParks parks and trails remain open, and the new mobile app provides users with easily accessible information to help plan and enhance a visit,” said Rebecca Benná, Five Rivers MetroParks executive director. “It’s a one-stop tool users can rely on for accurate, up-to-date information on trails and recreation information throughout their MetroParks, the regional paved trail network and river access points. Visitors will enjoy a mobile app that helps them fully experience their parks and trails
The app also includes the 25 trail challenges included in the MetroParks Trails Challenge, new for 2020. Each challenge is listed as an outing with a suggested start and end point.
The app also links to the most current information regarding precautions taken to slow the spread of COVID-19. Visitors can help keep their outdoor parks and trails open by always following the CDC’s recommendations, particularly for social distancing, when spending time outdoors.
To download the free app, visit metroparks.org/mobile.
Land Acquisition Will Grow Wesleyan MetroPark Nearly 50 Acres
On August 18 Five Rivers MetroParks closed on a land acquisition deal that will significantly expand the footprint of Wesleyan MetroPark. The land was purchased from the Calvary Mission Church through a Clean Ohio conservation grant and a significant donation from the church.
Grant funds totaled $311,000 and $215,000 was applied to the purchase of the property.
“Calvary Mission Church dreamed of this green space becoming a destination where the community could enjoy the outdoors,” said Eric Sauer, MetroParks planning manager. “By incorporating this space into an existing MetroPark, we can expand park amenities and connect trails, in addition to activating the space and making it accessible to the community, which is what the church envisioned.”
The 45.8 acres of acquired land contains ponds and portions of the Wolf Creek, which would offer new fishing and recreation opportunities to park visitors. The addition of this land also could help close a portion of a five-mile gap in the Wolf Creek bike trail and allow MetroParks’ conservation team to improve the land’s ecosystems.
“As part of MetroParks’ 10-year comprehensive master plan, we asked the community what they want to see from their MetroParks during public site plan meetings,” Sauer said. “We will do the same thing with Wesleyan MetroPark, considering the substantial addition of this new green space.”
MetroParks will begin the process over the next several months of cleaning up the space and selecting entrances that ensure neighborhood pedestrians have access to the area. MetroParks rangers will monitor the area, which will be considered one of MetroParks’ conservation areas until a community-based site plan can be completed. These natural areas are managed so that habitat for plants and wildlife take precedence.
Wesleyan MetroPark, located at 1441 Wesleyan Road, is home to Adventure Central and is one of Five Rivers MetroParks’ 18 clean, safe parks. Adventure Central is the result of a partnership among Five Rivers MetroParks, The Ohio State University Extension and 4-H Youth Development. Adventure Central’s positive youth development partnership is based on a proven model of long-term commitment and high touch integrated with opportunities to connect with nature. The result: strengthened values, lasting life skills and both an eagerness and confidence to explore life’s possibilities by building trusting and positive relationships with caring adults for the purpose of connecting youth and their parents with nature.
Volunteer for National Day of Service with MetroParks
One day can make a difference!
“We appreciate the support and help we receive from the community, which allows Five Rivers MetroParks to more effectively protect our region’s natural heritage,” said Yvonne Dunphe, volunteer coordinator for Five Rivers MetroParks. “Participating in Make a Difference Day is a great way for everyone to help preserve our environment while experiencing the outdoors and connecting with nature.”
Five Rivers MetroParks will participate in this year’s national Make a Difference Day from 9 am to noon on Saturday, Oct. 28.
Register online by Tuesday, Oct. 24.
Community members of all ages will work at various sites throughout the Dayton area, including:
- Seed planting at Cox Arboretum MetroPark
- Maintenance, pruning and planting at Hills & Dales MetroPark
- Prepping for the upcoming ice skating season at RiverScape MetroPark
- Rebuilding pasture fences at Carriage Hill MetroPark
- Painting, mulching, and trail work at Germantown MetroPark
- Tree planting at the Medlar Conservation Area
- Seed collection and maintenance at Wesleyan MetroPark
- Invasive honeysuckle removal at Aullwood Garden MetroPark and Englewood MetroPark
“Make a Difference Day is the perfect occasion to have an experience in the park you can feel extra good about,” said Yvonne Dunphe, MetroParks volunteer coordinator. “The weather is cooler, fall color is on full display and you get to spend the day meeting new people while helping to spruce up your favorite MetroPark.”
For those looking to volunteer as a family, Dunphe suggests Possum Creek MetroPark and Adventure Central for younger children, while older children can enjoy volunteering at Germantown MetroPark.
Now in its 25th year, Make a Difference Day is one of the largest annual single days of service nationwide. With the common goal to improve the lives of others, millions of volunteers will gather across the country and commit their time to local projects. Five Rivers MetroParks has participated in Make a Difference Day in different capacities for the past few years, and hopes to register 550 volunteers in 2017.
More information is available and registration can be completed online. Participants should wear clothes that are suitable for the weather and the activity in which they are participating. Boots or thick-soled shoes also are recommended. Supplies will be provided for activities, but individuals may wish to bring their own gloves or water to drink.
ABOUT FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS
Celebrating more than 50 years of preserving green space and natural areas, Five Rivers MetroParks is a nationally renowned park system composed of natural area parks, gardens, high-quality river corridors, urban parks and a network of recreation trails. Five Rivers MetroParks protects the region’s natural heritage and provides outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Educational programs and recreational opportunities are offered year-round for all ages. Five Rivers MetroParks is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. To learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log onto www.metroparks.org or call 937-275-PARK (7275).
Google Interactive Street Views of Dayton’s Trails Now Available
Google has incorporated 360-degree virtual imagery of hundreds of miles of Dayton-area trails and park destinations into its Google Maps. Five Rivers MetroParks partnered with Outdoor Adventure Connectionand Dayton Hikers, and collaborated with dozens of regional partners, to capture more than 600 miles of hiking, equestrian, mountain bike, water and paved trails.
This includes panoramic street view imagery-of regional hiking, mountain biking, equestrian, water and paved trails, providing outdoor recreation enthusiasts with interactive visual resources to plan and inspire adventures. People across the world now have the ability to virtually explore many of the region’s trails and landscapes.
“The information Google Maps provides is valuable to local trail enthusiasts and tourists,” said Amy Dingle, director of outdoor connections for Five Rivers MetroParks. “People can use these images as a tool to plan experiences on our amazing trails and public lands.”
Users can access the images of the Dayton region’s trails and landscapes by visiting www.google.com/maps. Captured areas include:
- Publicly accessible trails and open spaces in Five Rivers MetroParks’ 18 park destinations
- MetroParks’ Woodman Fen, Dull Woodsand Medlar conservation areas
- Regional parks, including Bill Yeck Park, Grant Park, and Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum
- More than 20 regional paved trails, including the Great Miami River Trail, Stillwater River Trail, Mad River Trailand the rest of the nation’s largest paved trail network.
- The Great Miami River Watershed National Water Trailthrough Montgomery County
- Mad River Runand RiverScape River Run
“This project is the most comprehensive of its kind in Ohio,” Dingle said. “Its success is a true reflection of the outdoor culture here and showcases Dayton, Ohio, as the Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest.”
Professional photographers, travelers, organizations and those who wish to promo
te areas of cultural, historical or touristic significance may apply to participate in the Google Street View camera loan program. A Street View Trekker backpack or a Street View app-compatible 360 camera is provided to organizations so they may capture comprehensive imagery of a designated area or site.
Similar to the camera unit affixed to vehicles that capture Google’s Street View images along roads, the Street View Trekker backpack has 15 cameras that capture images about every two seconds. Volunteers from Five Rivers MetroParks and Dayton Hikers collected the images during summer 2016.
The Street View Trekker backpack was mounted on a kayak to capture rivers and lakes, and on a utility cart to record images of the nation’s largest paved trail network, with more than 300 miles of connected trails. In addition, volunteers Jim Lewis, Laney Ketring, Dan Murray and Andy Niekamp woe the 50-pound Street View Trekker backpack to capture 80 miles of the area’s hiking trails.
Data collected from the Street View Trekker backpack and detailed information about each “trekking” session was sent to Google upon the project’s completion. Google has been processing the images since then to incorporate them into Google Maps.
The launch of this locally collected data comes just before the International Trails Symposium, May 7 to 10. Hosted in Dayton and sponsored by American Trails, the biennial International Trail Symposium is the premier opportunity for the world’s trails community to convene for educational sessions, networking and to experience regional trails.
Five Rivers MetroParks Seeks Community Input
Five Rivers MetroParks is taking the next step in implementing its 10-year comprehensive master plan by developing subsequent park site master plans for individual parks. To engage citizens in the planning process, MetroParks is hosting open houses, as well as inviting the public to provide feedback online or by calling Five Rivers MetroParks.
“Like the comprehensive master plan, the park site master plans will be based on community input,” said Becky Benná, Five Rivers MetroParks executive director. “The individual park site master plans will be completed in phases, with five parks and conservation areas included in the first phase. Each plan will consider and identify protected open space, habitats, amenities and potential uses and improvements for each location, as well as estimated capital and operating budgets for those uses and improvements.”
Members of the community can provide feedback during one or more of the five open houses scheduled through the end of October. Open houses include both afternoon and evening sessions, one from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and the second from 6 to 8 pm People are welcome to stop in at any time to share their thoughts and ideas for each park or conservation area.
TUES, OCT. 11: DISCUSS EASTWOOD METROPARK
· Both open houses will be held at Comfort Suites Wright Patterson: 5220 Huberville Ave.
THURS, OCT. 13: DISCUSS THE WETLAND MITIGATION BANK, LARCH TREE PROPERTY
· 11:30 am till 1:30 pm at Trotwood Library Branch, 651 E. Main Street
· 6:00 pm till 8:00 pm at Adventure Central, 2222 N. James H. McGee Blvd.
TUES, OCT. 18: DISCUSS ENGLEWOOD AND AULLWOOD GARDEN METROPARKS
· Both open houses will be held at Aullwood Nature Center: 1000 Aullwood Road
THURS, OCT. 27: DISCUSS WEGERZYN GARDENS METROPARK
· Both open houses will be held at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark: 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave.
Those who cannot attend scheduled open houses are invited to complete online surveys at metroparks.org/plan. Feedback also can be provided to Five Rivers MetroParks by contacting park planning manager Eric Sauer at 937-275-PARK (7275) or email@metroparks.org by Nov. 1, 2016.
“Community input was invaluable to the development of the 10-year comprehensive master plan, which was completed in 2015,” Benná said. “All this work is part of Five Rivers MetroParks’ commitment to create great parks where everyone in our community can experience the outdoors and nature. Five Rivers MetroParks is committed to using citizens’ input as the guide for future planning and for ensuring MetroParks continues to offer the world-class natural areas, parks, facilities and programs our community deserves.”
Dayton Lands Olympic Development Program For Rowing
Dayton Regional Rowing to be only such program for rowing in the nation, providing athletes new opportunities and enhancing region’s outdoor recreation offerings.
Five Rivers MetroParks has entered into an agreement with the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and USRowing to designate the newly formed Dayton Regional Rowing a Community Olympic Development Program (CODP). Dayton Regional Rowing is a partnership between Five Rivers MetroParks, the Dayton Boat Club and Greater Dayton Rowing Association.
Dayton Regional Rowing is the only USOC and USRowing sanctioned CODP for rowing in the nation and one of only 12 CODPs in the nation.
“This local and national collaboration is another example of how collective efforts can make great things happen in communities,” Five Rivers MetroParks Executive Director Becky Benná said. “The CODP designation elevates the sport of rowing in the region and across the country as the nation’s first CODP for the sport of rowing.
“This designation also complements the Dayton region’s status as the Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest and offers Five Rivers MetroParks and its rowing partners additional opportunities to serve the community by connecting people to nature, our rivers and promoting healthy lifestyles,” she added.
“The USOC is delighted to announce our new partnership with Five Rivers MetroParks to expand youth sport opportunities,” said Alicia McConnell, USOC director of training sites and community partnerships. “The Dayton community continues to show their commitment to supporting healthy and active lifestyles for their citizens, which is in line with the values and mission of the USOC.”
The mission of Dayton Regional Rowing is to provide lifelong personal development and active lifestyles for Miami Valley youth through the sport of rowing, as well as to enhance high-quality intermediate programs for youth to maximize their potential in the Olympic sport of rowing.
“This partnership with Dayton Regional Rowing is a great opportunity to leverage the value the USOC and USRowing affiliation can bring to the local level,” said USRowing CEO Glenn Merry. “USRowing is excited to amplify the work being done in Dayton, drive rowing growth in the region and strengthen critical constructs, such as referee and coaching development.”
“USRowing has a long and successful history of partnerships through our U.S. Olympic training sites in Oklahoma City and in Princeton, N.J.,” he added. “The CODP is a new opportunity to root Olympic excellence at the local and development level for rowing in the United States. Rowing is a lifelong sport and USRowing serves to unlock the champion within our athletes whether in their first year of youth rowing or at the Olympic podium.”
Beginning in 2012, Five Rivers MetroParks led the effort to establish a USOC-designated CODP to enhance opportunities for youth to connect with nature through Dayton’s rivers. This leadership included bringing together the efforts of the region’s two rowing clubs, the Dayton Boat Club and Greater Dayton Rowing Association.
“This recognition represents a huge achievement for the Dayton region and the sport of rowing,” said Jim Wall, president of the Greater Dayton Rowing Association. “This recognition of the quality of our facilities and our program is extremely rewarding. We look forward to continuing our work with the youth in our community, introducing rowing as a sport and identifying future national-level competitors.”
The Dayton Regional Rowing CODP will collaborate with the USOC and USRowing to offer a community-based rowing program. This program will build partnerships and leverage USOC and USRowing resources to help athletes develop their performance, thus enhancing the Olympic sports feeder system in Dayton. Dayton Regional Rowing’s initial goals include hosting coach and referee trainings, creating a clear pathway of athlete development, and increasing participation and improving performance in youth rowing.
“We are eager to begin this exciting collaboration between Dayton Regional Rowing, USRowing and the USOC,” said Mike Miles, Dayton Boat Club head coach. “I expect we will see Dayton rowers competing at the Olympic Games before too long.”
Five Rivers MetroParks will serve as the local administrator of Dayton Regional Rowing, with Director of Outdoor Connections Amy Dingle (pictured right) serving as lead staff member.
Volunteers Needed at Seedling Saturdays To Help Save Local Forests
As part of Five Rivers MetroParks’ reforestation efforts, more than 60,000 seedlings have been planted during the past four years on land Five Rivers MetroParks manages. Now, volunteers are needed during upcoming Seedling Saturdays to ensure these seedlings can grow — and improve our local environment. These free events will be held from 9 a.m. to noon:
- Saturday, Apr. 25 — Carriage Hill MetroPark, 7800 E. Shull Rd. in Dayton
- Saturday, May 2 — Germantown MetroPark, 7101 Conservancy Rd. in Germantown
- Saturday, May 9 — Carriage Hill MetroPark, 7800 E. Shull Rd. in Dayton
- Saturday, May 16 — Sugarcreek MetroPark, 4178 Conference Rd. in Bellbrook
- Saturday, May 30 — Germantown MetroPark, 7101 Conservancy Rd. in Germantown
Participants will join Five Rivers MetroParks staff to check on seedlings and provide some TLC, such as mulching, straightening protective tubes and clearing competing vegetation. These family-friendly events are a great way for kids to explore the outdoors and learn about nature — all while protecting the region’s natural heritage by rebuilding forests stressed by the Emerald Ash Borer, invasive species, climate change and more.
“With more than 15,800 acres of land to protect, Five Rivers MetroParks staff rely on volunteers’ help to protect our environment,” said David Nolin, Five Rivers MetroParks director of conservation. “Human beings have manipulated the world around us so much, it needs some help. We’ve found in MetroParks, we can greatly increase forest diversity with a little bit of effort.
“We’re stewards of the land, not absentee landlords,” Nolin added. “It is up to us to protect our natural areas not only for future generations, but for the future of the wildlife within our region as well.”
Registration is requested, but not required. Register for Seedling Saturdays online or by calling 937-275-PARK (7275). For additional volunteer opportunities to help Five Rivers MetroParks protect native trees and forest ecosystems, contact volunteer coordinator Yvonne Dunphe at Yvonne.Dunphe@metroparks.org or at 937-275-PARK (7275).
Food Summit Celebrates Local, Healthful Eating
The Montgomery County Food Policy Coalition, the University of Dayton’s Sustainability, Energy, and Environment Program and Growing Power Initiative, and the Partners for the Environment Food Team will host the 4th Annual Montgomery County Food Summit on Friday, November 7, 2014, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the University of Dayton River Campus (Meyer Room), 1700 S. Patterson Blvd., Dayton, Ohio. The food summit is free and open to the public. The consumer demand for locally grown food and local products continues to expand within our region. Commissioner Judy Dodge says, “The demand for locally grown food and local products continues to expand as consumers see the health and economic benefits in our community. The summit will focus on connecting the Dayton region’s local food producers with local consumers; institutions, retailers, restaurants, and schools.”
The food summit will focus on connecting the Dayton region’s local food producers with local consumers, institutions, retailers, restaurants, and schools. A variety of markets, producers, and retailers will present information about their distribution successes and challenges. A facilitated discussion will be held to explore solutions for developing distribution support for our local farmers and producers. If you’re interested in the growing local food movement – CSAs, market, and more – please RSVP by November 4, 2014 to BradfordE@mcohio.org or call 937-225- 6470.
From Farms to Tables: Connecting Producers to Consumers
Commission Dodge shared: Producers will share their stories about the successes, challenges, and economics of smaller farms, and a variety of market models will also be presented. In the afternoon we will engage in facilitated discussions to seek solutions in developing distribution support for our local farmers and producers.
WHEN: November 7, 2014, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m
WHERE: University of Dayton River Campus, Meyer Room; 1700 S. Patterson Blvd., Dayton, Ohio
What’s on the Schedule?
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Registration (Exhibit Fair, Networking)
9:00 a.m. – 9:10 a.m. Welcome:
- Judy Dodge, Montgomery County Commissioner
- Jim Gross, Health Commissioner, Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County
9:10 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Producer Panel: Successes, Challenges and Community Support
- Mile Creek Farm – Ben and Emily Jackle
- Bowman & Landes – Carl Bowman
- Hungry Toad Farm – Michael Malone
- Shiloh Market – Zella Cook
- EBT Connection – Christie Welch, Ohio State University
10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Break (Exhibit Fair, Networking)
10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Making a Connection to Local Food: Brian Raison, OSU Extension – A Study in Ohio’s Hospitals and Their Use of Local Foods
10:45 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Market Models:
- 2nd Street Market (Dayton) – Jimmy Harless
- Findlay Market (Cincinnati) – Karen Kahle
- Weinland Park Food District (Columbus) – Brian Williams, MORPC
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Lunch (Exhibit Fair, Networking) & Keynote Speaker Dan Carmody – The Detroit Eastern Market (Detroit)
12:30 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Dennis Chrisman – Dorothy Lane Market
12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Distribution Models:
- Patchwork Gardens – CSA model – George Mertz & Erik Vasilauskas
- Our Harvest Cooperative – Kristin Gangwer
- Mission of Mary – Stephen Mackell
- Champaign County Virtual Farmers Market – Pam Bowshier and Mark Runyan
1:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Break (Exhibit Fair, Networking)
2:00 p.m. – 2:10 p.m. Five Rivers MetroParks – Gardening Program
2:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. Facilitated Discussion & Report Out – Bob Steinbach
3:20 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Closing Remarks – Commissioner Judy Dodge
Five Rivers MetroParks Introduces Their New Recreation Volunteer Coordinator
Congratulations to Emmy Fabich, FRMP’s new Volunteer Coordinator of Outdoor Recreation and Events! Emmy’s position will support our MetroParks Volunteer Patrols (MVPs), recreational programs and riding center volunteers, as well as outdoor recreation and RiverScape events volunteers. She will coordinate volunteer support for trail building activities at MoMBA, too.
Some of you may already know Emmy as she has been with MetroParks for the past four years, previously serving as the Recreation Program Specialist in the Outdoor Connections Department. She has led overnight backpacking programs on the TVT, taught rescues and paddling strokes in kayaking programs at Eastwood, worked on bicycles during bike maintenance classes, and initiated the popular Try Slacklining programs, being a slacker herself.
Q: What makes you excited about being a Volunteer Coordinator?
A: “Having been at MetroParks for awhile, I am excited to take on new challenges in this role and look forward to interacting more regularly with volunteers. I think it is important to have a strong volunteer pool to support our great outdoor recreation opportunities so I’m enthusiastic about growing our numbers, as our programs and events get bigger and better. I’m also very excited about seeing more trail-building volunteers out at MoMBA now that I’ll be the contact for workdays. There is no way we could pull off the events or build the facilities we have without our volunteers. I look forward to hearing from more of you and getting you engaged!”
Q: When not recruiting volunteers for programs or events, where can we find you?
A: “In my spare time, I love to do the activities that parallel my previous position and my current one. You can find me outside any time of year, slacklining on some trees, commuting to work by bicycle, tearing-up single track at MoMBA or perfecting my kayak roll. When not recreating, I volunteer regularly with the local young professionals group – UpDayton, leading projects to attract and retain talent in downtown Dayton, something that is very important to me as a downtown resident. And I love to get my hands dirty building houses for Habitat for Humanity or wrenching on one of my three bicycles. I also love to cook!”
Thanks to Emmy, we are looking forward to growing the opportunities for recreation and urban events volunteers. Please contact Emmy by phone at 937-567-1413 or email at emmy.fabich@metroparks.org to find out more about getting involved.
Want to volunteer? Take a look at these upcoming opportunities:
Trail Building Workdays
- 9 AM – Noon unless otherwise indicated.
- 2nd Saturday, May-October – TVT Trails (Meet at Germantown MetroPark Office)
- 3rd Saturday, May-October – Huffman MetroPark/MoMBA
- Sugarcreek & Park-wide Workdays
Volunteer for National Bike to Work Day Pancake Breakfast
Friday, May 16 (all shifts are 6:30 – 9:30 AM)
RiverScape MetroPark Pavilion, 111 E. Monument Ave.
Leave your car in the garage, bike downtown, and support this fun-filled event.
Poster Distribution Volunteers for National Bike to Work Day events
Mid-April through the beginning of May, various locations
Pick up from Five Rivers MetroParks Main Office
409 E. Monument Avenue, 3rd Floor
Get Out & Live by hanging-up posters in your community to support National Bike to Work Day Pancake Breakfast and Bike Miami Valley regional events in May.
Bike to Work Trail Magic Stations – A Great MVP Opportunity!
Thursday, May 8, 4:30 – 6:30 PM
In preparation for Bike to Work Day Pancake Breakfast, volunteers are needed to send out a little trail magic. Stations are meant to bring awareness of bicycle commuting to recreational riders and families.
Celebrate Earth Day With Adopt-A-Park
Go green by protecting and cleaning green spaces in honor of Earth Day: Join Five Rivers MetroParks’ 27th annual Adopt-A-Park event from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 19. Register online by April 7 at www.metroparks.org/adopt.
A diverse crew of volunteers of all ages, accessibility levels and backgrounds join forces during this event to make our parks and river corridors healthier, more attractive and friendlier places to visit. Volunteers will participate in projects aimed at improving the environment at more than two dozen sites throughout the Dayton area.
Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and lunch at RiverScape MetroPark, and project supplies will be provided. Groups are encouraged to register early to ensure space at available sites.
“With this year’s high water and snow, cleanup along our rivers and bikeways will be especially important,” said Kevin Kepler, volunteer services manager for Five Rivers MetroParks. “We’ve seen some incredible wildlife during past clean ups, including beavers, otters, red fox and numerous interesting birds. You never know what you’re going to come across.”
In addition to cleanup, volunteers will plant trees, prepare garden beds, remove invasive species and paint. This year’s Adopt-A-Park volunteers also will help with conservation efforts to restore our forests by checking on tree seedlings that have been planted in past years, repairing protective tubes and making sure the seedlings are growing as planned.
“Environmental stewardship is a top of priority at Five Rivers MetroParks,” Kepler said. “We do this work year-round to help protect our environment, and the Adopt-A-Park volunteers help us create cleaner parks and natural spaces. Plus, it’s a great way to get back outside after winter, celebrate Earth Day and welcome spring.”
In 2013, more than 2,000 people volunteered at 37 sites located throughout Montgomery County to remove trash and invasive species, maintain trails, and prepare garden beds. Roughly 28,000 pounds of litter and 300 tires were removed; 13,500 pounds of recyclable materials were collected; and 6,000 trees were planted.
ABOUT FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS
Celebrating 50 years of preserving green space and natural areas, Five Rivers MetroParks is a nationally renowned park system composed of natural area parks, gardens, high-quality river corridors, urban parks and a network of recreation trails. Five Rivers MetroParks protects the region’s natural heritage and provides outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Educational programs and recreational opportunities are offered year-round for all ages. To learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log onto www.metroparks.org or call
937-275-PARK.
