October 6, 2025, Press Release from the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District:
Here are some of the programs and events being offered by the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District for the month of October!
MEET THE W.I.L.D
Enjoy a Saturday evening with the Park Rangers and friendly creatures of the night-time forest! The JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will once again offer MEET THE W.I.L.D. on Sat., Oct. 11 from 6-9 p.m. at the MCLEAN TEDDY BEAR PARK (2004 N. Dixie Hwy., Lima, OH).
Our JAMPD Park Rangers will be on hand to meet and greet you then escort you through the forest to meet our Wildlife In Legendary Disguise (costumed native animals)! The short walk will include take-home treats for the youngsters and will conclude with a bonfire of s’mores.
On arrival, please check in at the B.E.E.T.L.E (van), as groups leave will leave every 15 minutes starting at 6:00 p.m. The last hike will leave at 8:30 p.m. No registration necessary!
TREE-TORIAL
On Wed., Oct. 22 at 6:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer TREE-TORIAL at the Lima Public Library (650 W. Market St., Lima, OH).
Get “bark to basics” while learning more about the unique plants we call trees. In this program for adults and families you’ll “branch out” to explore a variety of topics and “grow” your knowledge of trees! Why do leaves change color in the fall? How old is the tree in your backyard? Come out to explore these topics and more with a Naturalist from the Park District and be “stumped” no longer!
Register by Oct. 21 online at www.jampd.com or by calling the office at 419-221-1232.
2025 NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST
Photographs Due! THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT is holding its 48th annual NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST. Follow us on Facebook and Flickr to view the results. Winners will be displayed at ArtSpace Lima and then at the McElroy Environmental Education Center.
Photographs will be submitted online. Deadline for submitted photos is no later than 11:59 p.m., Sunday Oct. 26, 2025. For official rules and more details, please visit our website www.jampd.com and click on the 2025 NATURE PHOTO CONTEST tab at the top of the page. For any additional questions, call 419-221-1232.
