LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – The rainy weather added a special touch to a program hosted by the Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District on Friday, highlighting the importance of wetlands to both humans and animals.
The event, titled Wondrous Wetlands, gave attendees a hands-on opportunity to explore how wetlands help filter pollutants and improve water quality. Participants created landscape art and discussed how pollution can pose hazards to these vital ecosystems.
Kids took part in a fun and educational activity where they made their own "polluted" cups of water, then learned how wetlands act as natural filtration systems.
“Wetlands act like sponges, especially areas like vernal pools,” said Cadence Richard, a seasonal naturalist with JAMPD. “If you think of swamps and other very boggy type areas, the mud and soil within those areas can help trap pollution and stop it in its tracks before it continues on down to whatever river or stream they might feed into.”
Young nature enthusiasts like Olivia were eager to learn more about the animals that call the wetlands home. “I want to learn about all the animals in the wetlands. Do you know what any of those are? I imagine some more, like frogs,” she said.
Olivia and others got to meet a few wetland residents up close, including a spotted salamander, an American bullfrog, and a snapping turtle.
A full schedule of events hosted by Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District can be found at jampd.com.
