WVP Events

(E) Training Session: Bank Erosion Hazard Index

Mon, June 22, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. @  Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation in West Creek Watershed 

Stream Restoration Ecologist Elizabeth Hiser in partnership with Summit SWCD will lead a training in the classroom and in the field on how to assess streambank erosion using BEHI assessment methodology. BEHI looks at several streambank characteristics to determine the erosion potential: bank angle or undercutting, geologic layers, root structures within the bank, and more. More details TBA.

(E) Picnic in the Park

Sat, June 27, 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. & 2 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. @ Canal Basin Park in Cuyahoga River Watershed 

Help spread the word about WVP and share your knowledge of watershed health by staffing an information table at Picnic in the Park. Cuyahoga County is kicking off its America 250 celebration with the return of Rediscover Veterans Memorial Bridge. The iconic Veterans Memorial Bridge will be open to the public for free, self-guided tours of the rarely seen lower level. In addition, Picnic in the Park at Canal Basin Park will feature live music, food trucks, and fun activities for all ages.

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series*

Sun, June 28, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Bear Parking Lot, Brookside Reservation in Big Creek Watershed 

Start off your Sunday by joining the WVP team and fellow volunteers for a morning snack and refreshing beverage before we set foot into the Green Infrastructure. In part 3 of this series, we will remove invasive plant species, add mulch to barren areas, perform other routine maintenance ensuring proper functionality and provide a natural space for wildlife in stormwater control measures.

Public Volunteers register here

(S) Old Growth Forest Tour

Sat, June 20, 9 a.m. @ A. B. Williams Forest in North Chagrin Reservation

Join the Friends of Euclid Creek for an Old Growth Forest Tour Led by Tom Sampliner. They will meet in the parking lot for Forest Picnic Area at the southeast terminus of Metroparks Dr. in North Chagrin Reservation. The terrain will be slightly undulating but expected to be dry unless substantial pre-walk rain occurs. Footwear should be ordinary hiking shoes or boots. Register with the FOEC. Registrants will receive additional background information before the walk.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Friends of Doan Brook Gorge Community Stewardship Day

Sat, June 20, 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ 41.492796, -81.594048

This year, the Friends of Doan Brook Gorge will be hosting 6 Community Stewardship Days at the Doan Brook Gorge to remove invasive species, plant native trees, shrubs and pollinator plants, expand and maintain “no mow” areas by replenishing woodchips, and more!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Grass Isn't Greener: Nurturing Nature at Home with Danae Wolfe

Sat, June 20, 12 - 1:30 p.m. @ Willoughby Library Lawn

Conservation writer and wildlife photographer Danae Wolfe will discuss her new book and how your yard can become a vibrant refuge for pollinators, birds, and bugs—and a surprisingly powerful force for conservation. Optional tour of the new Willoughby Public Library rain garden will follow the presentation.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Invasive Plant Removal Drop In

Thurs, June 25, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Join CVNP for our invasive plant removal drop-in to improve habitat for native plants and wildlife! Invasive species overcrowd native species, making it difficult for them to thrive, which in turn affects the wildlife in the ecosystem. Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife. Drop-ins are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers and veteran volunteers to get involved in their national park.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Splash Fresh Water Exploration Day

Sun, June 28, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. @ This event spans Great Lakes Science Center, North Coast Yard, and the Port of Cleveland.

SPLASH! Freshwater Exploration Day brings together science, exploration, and community to celebrate the power of our freshwater resources and inspire the next generation of Great Lakes stewards.

More Information and Registration Here

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

Sun, July 12, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Euclid Beach in Euclid Creek Watershed

Join us for monitoring Marine Debris at Euclid Creek.

(M) Scenic Rivers Macro Monitoring

Tue, July 14 (Rain Date: Fri July 17), 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. @ Old River Farm Picnic Area, North Chagrin Reservation  in Chagrin River Watershed

Learn how to use macroinvertebrates to measure the water quality of the Chagrin River as part of the Ohio Wild and Scenic Rivers Program! Join Cleveland Metroparks Aquatic Research Coordinator, Claire Weldon, in seining (netting) and identifying biological life living in the river.  

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series*

Sun, July 19, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Euclid Beach in Euclid Creek Watershed

Start off your Sunday by joining the WVP team and fellow volunteers for a morning snack and refreshing beverage before we set foot into the Green Infrastructure. In part 4 of this series, we will remove invasive plant species, add mulch to barren areas, perform other routine maintenance ensuring proper functionality and provide a natural space for wildlife in stormwater control measures.

Public Volunteers register here

(E) Watershed Wednesday w/ Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District

Wed, July 22, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @  Acacia Reservation, Euclid Creek Watershed 

We will be joined by Kate Chapel, Euclid Creek Watershed Coordinator, from Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District to learn about restoration efforts on Euclid Creek, both on site and right downstream. We will help remove trash from the creek/floodplains and remove some invasive species as well. Past tree plantings will be inspected and tree cages assessed to see if any ought to be removed. Any tools and supplies will be provided by Cuyahoga SWCD. Please wear long pants and close-toed shoes and bring your own water.

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series*

Sun, July 26, 9 - 11 a.m. @  North Chagrin Reservation in Chagrin River Watershed 

Start off your Sunday by joining the WVP team and fellow volunteers for a morning snack and refreshing beverage before we set foot into the Green Infrastructure. In part 5 of this series, we will remove invasive plant species, add mulch to barren areas, perform other routine maintenance ensuring proper functionality and provide a natural space for wildlife in stormwater control measures.

Public Volunteers register here

(S) Master Rain Gardener | Summer 2026

Mondays July 6-27, 5:30-7:00 p.m. @ Mayfield Heights Aquatic & Community Center

Learn to design and install your own rain garden and become the rain garden expert in your neighborhood. This course will provide you with the information and experience to build your own rain garden and become a Certified Master Rain Gardener. We recognize that not everyone can build a rain garden on their own property though, so you can also become certified by participating in a public rain garden building, volunteering at a public rain garden, or passing along your new expertise to the public (i.e. presenting to your garden club, at a public library, etc.)

Upon certification, you’ll receive a Master Rain Gardener t-shirt, sign, and certificate (included in the cost of registration).

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Rain Barrel Workshop

Wed, July 8, 6 - 7 p.m. @ Mayfield Library

Collect rainwater for outdoor use and help reduce stormwater pollution in your community by building your own rain barrel. A rain barrel captures and stores rainwater that would otherwise flow untreated into storm drains. You can use this collected water to nourish your lawn and garden, conserving resources and supporting a healthier environment. This workshop includes a rain barrel system pickup along with a brief presentation and demonstration at the beginning. You’ll receive a barrel and a complete kit with all the parts needed to assemble your system at home using just a drill and a screwdriver. The $60 fee covers all materials, including a 60‑gallon barrel, drill bits, and a downspout diverter. If you’d like to create a two‑barrel setup, an additional barrel and linking kit are available for $40. Pre‑payment and workshop registration are required.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Invasive Plant Removal Drop In

Thurs, July 9, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Join CVNP for our invasive plant removal drop-in to improve habitat for native plants and wildlife! Invasive species overcrowd native species, making it difficult for them to thrive, which in turn affects the wildlife in the ecosystem. Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife. Drop-ins are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers and veteran volunteers to get involved in their national park.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Cuyahoga Area of Concern: Meeting and Mayfield Golf Course Stream Restoration Tour

Mon, July 13 - 9 - 10:30 a.m. meeting followed by 60 min tour @ Mayfield Sand Ridge Club 1545 Sheridan Rd, South Euclid, OH, United States

Join the Cuyahoga River AOC's Advisory Committee at the next quarterly meeting to discuss pertinent items related to the overall goal of delisting the river by completing all Management Action Projects and all Beneficial Use Impairment's are restored. Please email [email protected] for an agenda and additional information.

(S) Share the River: Blazing Paddles Riverfest

 Sat, July 18, 10 a.m. @ Nautica Waterfront District

The 8th Annual Blazing Paddles Paddlefest is Ohio's 2nd largest paddling event for kayaks, canoes, standups, and surf skis on the Cuyahoga River, a historic body of water that's risen like a Phoenix since the June 22, 1969 fire sparked the global environmental movement and clean water protections. After your paddle, enjoy the Blazing Paddles Paddlefest Riverfront Expo with food, beverage and live Reggae music at Music Box Supper Club and other Flats West Bank hospitality partners.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Invasive Plant Removal Drop In

Sat, July 18, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Join CVNP for our invasive plant removal drop-in to improve habitat for native plants and wildlife! Invasive species overcrowd native species, making it difficult for them to thrive, which in turn affects the wildlife in the ecosystem. Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife. Drop-ins are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers and veteran volunteers to get involved in their national park.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Hike Opportunity – West Creek Conservancy: West Creek Reservation – Parma in Cuyahoga County

Sun, July 19, 12 - 2 p.m. @ West Creek Conservancy

Explore nature from a river’s point of view. We will get wet as we hike down the middle of West Creek heading south from the Watershed Stewardship Center. West Creek Conservancy in partnership with Cleveland Metroparks has worked hard to protect, restore, and connect riparian green spaces, one parcel at a time, to create West Creek Reservation. The hike will highlight how humans have altered the stream valley through urban growth. Participants will observe the stream in action, as we compare a section of more natural stream valley to a highly altered section of stream valley. It will be over moderate to rough terrain (rocky riverbeds) so a walking stick and waterproof rubber knee-high boots, or sturdy tennis shoes that can get wet, are recommended. Along the hike we will talk about problems created by urban modifications of a natural stream and see firsthand the need to protect and restore these important blue-green corridors. Registration: Call or email Kelly Eppink at 330-801-5446 | [email protected]

(S) A Naturalist Walk in Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve

Sat, July 25, 9 - 11:00 a.m. @ 9601 Headlands Rd, 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060

Did you know there are dunes as part of a Lake Erie beach in Northeast Ohio? Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve, located in Mentor Headlands, is a must see! Join Tom Sampliner as he walks us through this Lake Erie jewel. Tom recommends those in attendance bring a picnic or sack lunch to enjoy afterwards at the Mentor Headlands State Park facilities.  There are public picnic tables, grills, rest rooms, and change houses available at the beach.  Mentor Headlands State Park is adjacent to the nature preserve.   This is an excellent opportunity to connect with FOEC members and friends.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Friends of Doan Brook Gorge Community Stewardship Day

Sat, July 25, 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ 41.492796, -81.594048

This year, the Friends of Doan Brook Gorge will be hosting 6 Community Stewardship Days at the Doan Brook Gorge to remove invasive species, plant native trees, shrubs and pollinator plants, expand and maintain “no mow” areas by replenishing woodchips, and more!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week Webinar: Welcome to Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week 

Mon, July 27, 1:00 p.m. @ Webinar

Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week is a new initiative of the Izaak Walton League of America, aimed at amplifying education, monitoring, and advocacy surrounding nitrate pollution in water. But what is nitrate pollution? Why does it matter? And what can we do about it? Join the League’s Clean Water Program Director, Samantha Puckett and Grassroots Advocacy Manager, Jessica Gordon to learn the answers to these questions, and more. Plus, find out how you can enter to win prizes just by getting involved this week!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week Webinar: An Invisible Threat: Nitrate in Drinking Water 

Wed, July 29, 1:00 p.m. @ Webinar

In communities across the country, nitrate pollution is a tasteless, odorless, invisible contaminant posing serious harm to public health. Join Dr. David Cwiertny, Director of the University of Iowa’s Center for Health Effects of Environmental Contamination, for an in-depth exploration of how nitrate contamination in our water systems is a public health concern. This session will distill complex data into clear takeaways, highlighting the latest scientific links between nitrate exposure and adverse health outcomes including cancers, thyroid disease, birth defects, and more. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week Webinar: Regenerative Solutions for Soil Health and Water Quality 

Thurs, July 30, 1:00 p.m. @ Webinar

Environmental stewardship and farm profitability are not mutually exclusive. Join Dr. Matt Liebman, Iowa State University Professor Emeritus, as he draws from decades of groundbreaking research to describe actionable strategies to cultivate resilience on agricultural landscapes to improve water quality. We’ll explore how regenerative practices can significantly reduce nitrate pollution and restore soil health without sacrificing the bottom line. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week Webinar: Nitrate Pollution and the Dead Zone: Insights from the Gulf

Fri, July 31, 1:00 p.m. @ Webinar

Each summer, the Gulf of Mexico develops a hypoxic “dead zone,” an area of low to no oxygen spanning thousands of square miles where aquatic life is scarce. Join Dr. Cassandra Glaspie of Louisiana State University for an exploration of the Gulf dead zone and its connection to nitrate pollution within the Mississippi River Basin. Drawing on her firsthand experience leading hypoxia cruises, Dr. Glaspie will share insights into the data collection process and what long-term nutrient dynamics reveal about the health of our coastal waters.

More Information and Registration Here

(E) Bug Bonanza WVP Table

Sat, Aug 1, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 12 - 2:30 p.m. @  Watershed Stewardship Center in West Creek Watershed

The Cleveland Metroparks Bug Bonanza is an annual, free, family-friendly summer event celebrating insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. Join us to help spread the word about WVP by staffing an information table at the Metroparks annual Bug Bonanza. 

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series*

Sun, Aug 2, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Sideyard Park in Cuyahoga River Watershed

Start off your Sunday by joining the WVP team and fellow volunteers for a morning snack and refreshing beverage before we set foot into the Green Infrastructure. In part 6 of this series, we will remove invasive plant species, add mulch to barren areas, perform other routine maintenance ensuring proper functionality and provide a natural space for wildlife in stormwater control measures.

Public Volunteers register here

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series*

Sun, Aug 9, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Wildwood Park in Euclid Creek Watershed

Start off your Sunday by joining the WVP team and fellow volunteers for a morning snack and refreshing beverage before we set foot into the Green Infrastructure. In part 7 of this series, we will remove invasive plant species, add mulch to barren areas, perform other routine maintenance ensuring proper functionality and provide a natural space for wildlife in stormwater control measures.

Public Volunteers register here

(E) Watershed Wednesday w/ Chagrin River Watershed Partners

Wed, Aug 12, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @  North Chagrin Reservation in Chagrin River Watershed

We will be joined by Kevin Saracino from Chagrin River Watershed Partners to learn about the Beecher's Brook Restoration that Chagrin River Watershed Partners assisted with back in 2021. We will tour the site, talk about the restoration, and learn about fish passage barriers that were a big part of the project.

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series Celebration

Sun, Aug 16, 9 - 11 a.m. @  TBA

Join us in celebrating all our hard work and accomplishments during the 7 events of the Green Infrastructure Gardening Series this year. 

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

Sun, Aug 23, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Euclid Beach in Euclid Creek Watershed

Join us for monitoring Marine Debris at Euclid Creek.

(S) Rain Barrel Workshop

Wed, Aug 5, 6 - 7 p.m. @ South Euclid Community Center

Collect rainwater, cut down on stormwater pollution, and give your garden a boost by building your own rain barrel. A rain barrel captures and stores water that would otherwise rush into storm drains untreated. By using this collected water on your lawn and garden, you conserve resources, support healthier waterways, and keep your plants happy. The workshop begins with a brief presentation and demonstration on assembling a rain barrel using the diverter kit. After the presentation, you’ll receive the rain barrel system(s) you purchased during registration. You’ll have everything you need to assemble your rain barrel system(s) at home using just a drill and a screwdriver. The $60 fee covers all materials, including a 60‑gallon barrel, drill bits, and a downspout diverter. If you’d like to create a two‑barrel setup, an additional barrel and linking kit are available for $40. Pre‑payment and workshop registration are required.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Lake Erie Awareness Day 2026

Thurs, Aug 6, 11 a.m.  - 3 p.m. @ Put-in-Bay, OH 43456

Lake Erie Awareness Day brings the magic of Lake Erie’s history, culture, and natural resources to Put-in-Bay! Spend the day touring South Bass Island while learning about Ohio’s greatest water resource and visiting education stations to learn about island history, native plants and animals, the dangers of plastic pollution, and boating safety. Fun giveaways and a great day in nature awaits! Go to all the stations and be entered to win a fabulous island themed prize.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Cuyahoga River Rally

Sat, Aug 8, 11 a.m.  - 5 p.m. @ Hart Crane Memorial park

River Rally, sponsored by Cargill, is a free community festival celebrating the renewal of the Cuyahoga River with free walking, biking and boat tours at Hart Crane Park. The festival village opens at 11 a.m. offering kids’ crafts, water-themed experiences, free rides on the Holiday Boat, live music, a beer garden and more!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Invasive Plant Removal Drop In

Thurs, Aug 13, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Join CVNP for our invasive plant removal drop-in to improve habitat for native plants and wildlife! Invasive species overcrowd native species, making it difficult for them to thrive, which in turn affects the wildlife in the ecosystem. Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife. Drop-ins are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers and veteran volunteers to get involved in their national park.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Hike Opportunity – West Creek Conservancy: Thompson Ledges North – Thompson Township in Geauga County

Fri, Aug 14, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ Thompson Ledges North

Walk with Dr. David Saja and several local naturalists through the recently acquired and yet-to-be open northern section of Thompson Ledges. Learn about the uniqueness of the northern most Sharon-conglomerate sandstone rock outcropping in Ohio. Expect to see distinctive trails, caves, old growth forest and several listed species along the way. Meet up after the hike for comradery and wine-tasting  at a Grand River Winery. Exact location to be determined closer to hike. Registration: Call or email Kelly Eppink at 330-801-5446 | [email protected]

(S) Whiskey Island Paddlefest

Sat, Aug 15, 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ Wendy Park

Challenge yourself with a 1-mile, 2-mile, 6-mile, or Kids’ stand up paddleboard or kayak race during the 12th annual Whiskey Island Paddlefest, or enjoy a paddle at your own pace during the Capture the Swag Fun Paddle! Whiskey Island Paddlefest is perfect for both beginners and advanced paddlers.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Tinker's Creek Family Fun Day

Sat, Aug 15, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ Twinsburg

Get ready for a day full of fun outdoor activities for the whole family! Explore nature, learn about watersheds, and enjoy games, crafts, and tasty treats. Perfect for all ages, this in-person event promises a great time connecting with nature and your community. Don't miss out on the laughs, learning, and lasting memories at the Tinker's Creek Family Fun Day!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Friends of Doan Brook Gorge Community Stewardship Day

Sat, Aug 15, 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ 41.492796, -81.594048

This year, the Friends of Doan Brook Gorge will be hosting 6 Community Stewardship Days at the Doan Brook Gorge to remove invasive species, plant native trees, shrubs and pollinator plants, expand and maintain “no mow” areas by replenishing woodchips, and more!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Hike Opportunity – West Creek Conservancy: Creekside Collaborative Partners Hike and Open House – Parma in Cuyahoga County

Tues, Aug 18, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Creekside Collaborative Partners

Creekside Collaborative Partners: A historic homestead, a stream restoration site, and a collaborative hub where conservation partners come together. Join us for a guided hike as we explore the land’s past, celebrate its purpose today, and share the vision ahead. This will be a leisurely, one‑mile hike around the site, offering a closer look at how this urban greenspace is being thoughtfully used and cared for. Along the way, we’ll visit a preserved upland forest, a restored urban stream valley, a culinary outdoor classroom, and a native plant nursery. After the hike, stay for an open‑house‑style gathering—chat with staff, ask questions, and explore the space at your own pace. Registration: Call or email Kelly Eppink at 330-801-5446 | [email protected]

(S) Take to the Lake

Sat, Aug 22, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. @ Lower Shaker Lake, Shaker Heights

Doan Brook Watershed Partnership has been hosting our annual event Take to the Lake which was started in 2013 as a memorial to Lester Stumpe, an avid paddler and early DBWP board member. We typically host the event on the last Saturday in August and this years event details can be found below. Canoeing on the Shaker Lakes was a popular pastime in the first half of the 20th century, but public boating on the lakes is now less common. Take to the Lake gives participants a chance to resurrect this recreational opportunity for a day, and gain a new perspective on the lakes and their place in our watershed community. We hope you will join us for an afternoon of paddling, guided hikes, yoga, along the banks of historic Lower Shaker Lake.

More Information and Registration Here

(M) Scenic Rivers Macro Monitoring

May 19, July 14, & Sept 15 - 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 

(R) Green Infrastructure Gardening Series

May 31, June 14, June 28, July 19, July 26, August 2, August 9, August 16 - 9 a.m.  - 11 a.m.

(E) Sturgeon Fest

September 19

(E)Clean Water Fest

September 19