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Visit the Ottawa County Parks Program and Events Calendar for details and registration. Call the Nature Education Center for more information: 616-786-4847.
2019 Annual Report
The Annual Report of the Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission for fiscal year 2019 (10/1/2018 - 9/30/2019) is now available online: https://miottawa.org/Parks/park-plan.htm
A special thank you to contributors including: volunteer photographer Mike Lozon for providing many of the images used in this report, WOOD TV-8 for permission to use a clip of an interview with Marlee Ginter, Grand Valley State University, Georgetown Township, and Prein&Newhof.
Did you know that in the winter there are snowy owls that live in our county? Come learn more about these majestic birds from Curtis Dykstra Ottawa Co. Parks Naturalist. This program is geared towards ages 12+
No registration required.
Photo by the_peck_deck
Earth Encounters: Michigan Minerals
Come learn what makes a mineral a mineral and some basic methods to help identify them. We’ll focus on common minerals found in Michigan and you'll have opportunity for hands-on investigation of their particular properties.
No registration required.
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Astronomy at the Nature Center: Moon Rocks & Craters
We'll look at the formation and history of the Moon while learning a little about its geology. We may find that it has many things in common with its closest neighbor: Earth! After the presentation, the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA) will have telescopes available for observing the winter skies (weather permitting).
No registration required
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Wonders of Winter
Bring the whole family to explore the wonders of winter! We'll enjoy artmaking and hands-on activities, stories, hot chocolate, and a guided hike.
Registration required.
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Moonlight Night Hike
February 7, 7:00 PM- 8:30 PM at Connor Bayou
Experience parks in a whole new way and see what nocturnal creatures lurk there ask you explore by moonlight. Recommended for ages 10+.
Registration required.
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Coffee with the Birds
Enjoy a hot cup of coffee and some baked goodies as you watch the birds at the feeders and discuss various birding topics with a naturalist. Bring your bird questions, curiosities and stories, and don't forget your favorite mug! Donations for bird food appreciated.
Schedule:
9:30 - 10:20: Coffee with the Birds - Feeder Watching Session 1
10:30 - 11:00: Birding Tidbits: "Resorting" to Birding in the DR
11:10 - 12:00: Coffee with the Birds - Feeder Watching Session 2
No registration required.
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Fireside Storytime
Snuggle up by the fire with your kids for a relaxing time of seasonally-themed nature stories and a mug of hot chocolate! Don’t forget a comfy pillow and blanket! Dress for a guided hike after the story.
Recommended for ages 3 - 8, accompanied by an adult.
Registration required.
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Trail Conditions
Winter conditions have changed at Hemlock Crossing due to the lack of snow. For the most up-to-date trails conditions and winter equipment rental information for both Hemlock Crossing and Pigeon Creek please visit: miOttawa.org/trails
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Time to be a Nature Nerd!
Learn more about this cool little critter... the snow flea (or spring tail) in a video by mi EcoBUZZ.
Photo by@_matfoto
We want to see your park photos. Connect with us on Instagram by tagging your park photos @OttawaCountyParks or #OttawaCountyParks
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