September 10, 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 second half of September!
BIRDING BY BOAT
On Wed., Sept. 17 at 8:00 a.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer BIRDING BY BOAT at OTTAWA METRO PARK – LIMA LAKE (2632 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
Experience birding like never before – kayaking at Lima Lake! With the support of the ODNR Boating Safety Education Grant, we’ll learn safe boating practices and do some birding on the water. Please bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and close-toed shoes. Dress to be outside and to get wet!
A registration fee of $5 holds your spot and will be refunded within a few days of your confirmed attendance. Register by Sept. 16, online at www.jampd.com or by calling the office at 419-221-1232.
BEGINNING ARCHERY
On Wed., Sept. 24 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. OR 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer BEGINNING ARCHERY at the ALLEN CO. FARM PARK (1582 Slabtown Rd., Lima, OH).
Enjoy the great outdoors while learning a new skill! Participants ages 9 to adult are invited to join us on the range to explore this unique recreational sport and appreciate the role of archery in wildlife management. Certified archery instructors will lead participants in proper shooting technique and highlight important safety considerations. All materials will be provided by the park district; participants must use the equipment provided. Wear closed-toe shoes and secure long hair.
Register by Sept. 23 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232. Please register for only one evening session.
FEEDING DAY
On Thurs., Set. 25 at 4:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will host FEEDING DAY at the MCELROY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (2355 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
The Park District maintains several education animals in the McElroy Environmental Education Center, using them throughout the year for a nature presentations and programs. Join the Critter Care Volunteers to watch (or help!) them clean and feed all our animals at 4 p.m. on the last Thursday of the month!
Register by Sept. 24 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
SKY FISHING
On Fri., Sept. 26 at 9:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer SKY FISHING at KENDRICK WOODS (971 N. Defiance Trail, Spencerville, OH).
Every last Friday from May to September, a Naturalist will set up equipment to go “sky fishing” – a way that scientists sample the insects flying through our night sky. From Luna moths to fireflies, each month should bring a suite of curious new insects as different species emerge at different times of year. Help us identify and record the insects we find or simply enjoy the show!
Register by Sept. 25 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232. Once registered, event starts at sunset each month and will meet at the Maple Shelter.
