WVP Events

(M) Winter Stonefly Survey

Sat, Mar 14, 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. @  Baldwin Creek in Baldwin Creek Watershed

Join volunteer leader Bob Bennett for the third of a three part stonefly monitoring work session. Learn about the first discoveries of stoneflies in Baldwin Creek, search on-land for two species of stoneflies at three Baldwin Creek sites, and submit photo data to iNaturalist. Data collected during these surveys will be utilized to estimate the presence and abundance of stonefly families within Baldwin Creek.  

(E) Natural Resources Winter Lecture Series: Tree Selector Tool: Case Study Application and Wildlife Benefits of Trees

Wed, Mar 18, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @  Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation in West Creek Watershed

Responsible landscaping starts with you. Planting native trees helps in mitigating soil erosion, reduces flood impact, provides shade that reduces energy costs, improves air quality by filtering pollutants, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The essential ecosystem services provided by planting responsibly have significant positive impacts on our community. Come learn how to use the Tree Selector Tool and explore 90 native tree species to find the right one for your backyard. 

(E) World Water Day

Sat, Mar 21, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 12 - 2:30 p.m. @  Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation in West Creek Watershed

WVP Volunteers who are comfortable working with macroinvertebrates can assist with the educational macroinvertebrate displays at this international celebration of water. Identification cards and images will be available. 

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

Sun, Mar 22, 9 - 11 a.m. @  Euclid Beach in Euclid Creek Watershed

Join us for monitoring Marine Debris at Euclid Creek.

(S) Protecting our Waterways with River Guardians Ohio| A Low Power Happy Hour Event

Wed, March 11, 5- 7:00 p.m. @ Happy Days Lodge - Peninsula, OH

Learn about this success stories of River Guardians Ohio and their work to clean up the Tuscarawas River and more. Join us for an inspiring conversation with James Carnahan, founder of River Guardians Ohio. Carnahan has found huge success in cleaning up local waterways in a short amount of time. River Guardians Ohio was formed after Carnahan discovered and reported a major oil spill in the Tuscarawas River in Barberton, Ohio in July 2023 while on his way to his favorite fishing hole. This led to an 11-week clean up and the formation of River Guardians Ohio. Through the creation of simple tools and a small, dedicated team, River Guardians Ohio cleaned up over a ton of trash within their first three months. They have developed relationships with other entities like Summit Metro Parks and the City of Akron to begin working in other waterways. Come hear their story.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Cuyahoga Area of Concern Symposium

Thurs, March 12, 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. @ Slovenian National Home

All are welcome to attend and hear how our work in the watershed, flowing from local history, culture, and action, continues to shape the future of the Cuyahoga River. Attendees can expect updates on Areas of Concern, learn about local projects, celebrate the Champion of the River, and hear from community leaders, researchers, and advocates whose stories and efforts flow across the Great Lakes. Additionally, we will keep things flowing with a happy hour at Goldhorn Brewing Company following the event. General Registration: $5 A continental breakfast and lunch will be provided for all registered guests.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Seed Sowing

Thurs, March 12, 1- 3:00 p.m. @ Creekside Collaborative Partners

Join West Creek Conservancy as they kick off the season by sowing wildflower seeds! Volunteers will help fill flats with soil and plant a variety of wildflower seeds that will support future restoration efforts and plant sales.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Tree Care 101 Workshop

Sun, March 15, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. @ Pepper Pike Service Garage

Are you interested in planting a tree at your residence, but don’t know how to get started? Come join us in Pepper Pike for Tree Care 101, a workshop where we will walk you through the process of selecting, planting, and caring for a new tree. Residents of Cuyahoga County who attend will get to select a free bareroot tree they will receive in Spring 2026. Workshop is free but registration is requested by March 13.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) The Cuyahoga: A Dam Good Story

Wed, March 18, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. @ GYH/Goodyear Heights Lodge

Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society to welcome Watershed Specialist Elaine Marsh, a lifelong lover of the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie. From pristine to polluted and finally restored, we’ll learn the roles science, public policy and funding play in this stunning account of man’s checkered history with water quality. Meet in the East Room.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Wild & Scenic Film Festival

Sat, March 21, 2, 2:30, 6, or 6:30 p.m. @ The Nightlight (30 N. High St., Akron) or virtual ticket

Summit Metro Parks Foundation is excited to bring the world-class Wild & Scenic Film Festival to Akron to celebrate the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation. All proceeds benefit the Summit Metro Parks Foundation. Join us at the 2, 2:30, 6, or 6:30 p.m. showing to celebrate nature and be inspired! Can't join us on the 21st? Purchase a virtual ticket and we will send you a link to view the films between March 21st and 27th at your location. All showings will have the same collection of films. The 120-minute compilation will feature family-friendly, inspiring stories from around the US and the world.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) World Water Day Webinar: Where water flows, equality grows

Mon, March 23, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. @ webinar

Join in to learn about the essential nature of water, what makes freshwater "fresh", where it is found around the world, and what we can do in our own communities to protect it. We will talk about how watersheds impact the health of our freshwater resources, how changes in water usage can impact quality and availability, and what is being done globally to secure fresh water.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Live Stakes Drive Through

Mon, March 23, 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. @ Fairhill Partners

Calling all Watershed residents! You are invited to stop by the Fairhill Partners campus to pick up some FREE live stakes along with a short demonstration about how to use them.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) History and Future of Euclid Creek Reservation

Tues, March 24, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. @ Beachwood Branch, CCPL

Join the Friends of Euclid Creek for a talk with Naturalist Kelsey Rodgers of the Cleveland Metroparks (North Chagrin Reservation) for a timeline conversation about the Euclid Creek Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) TCWP: Winter Webinar Series: Nature Therapy: Finding Balance Through Pollinator Gardening

Thurs, Mar 26, 12 - 1 p.m. @ Webinar

Join Alyson Wakeen, wildlife biologist and certified shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) guide, for a FREE webinar on how connecting with nature can nurture both ecosystems and well-being. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Rain Barrel Workshop

Thurs, March 26, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. @ Jones Road Congregational Church

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 10am. 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) March into Spring: A Frogs, Flowers, and Fresh Air Hike

Sat, Mar 28, 10 - 11:30 a.m. @ 3973 E Aurora Rd Twinsburg, OH

Join Tinker's Creek Watershed Partners and Open Trail Collective as we welcome spring with a guided 1.6-mile hike along the Buttonbush Trail at Pond Brook Conservation Area, part of Summit Metro Parks. This relaxed-paced hike will explore wet woodland habitats as the season begins to awaken. While spring wildflowers may just be emerging, participants can expect to experience the sights and sounds of early spring including frogs calling from the wetlands. The trail starts on a grassy, unpaved surface before transitioning to a wooden boardwalk that helps keep hikers above wetter, muddy areas. The route is approximately 1.6 miles and suitable for all ages and skill levels. Dogs permitted.

More Information and Registration Here

(R) Bioretention Maintenance

Thurs, Apr 9, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Wildwood, Euclid Creek Reservation in Euclid Creek Watershed

Join Elizabeth Hiser, Stream Restoration Ecologist, and Park Ops staff with bioretention maintenance at Wildwood Park in Euclid Creek Reservation. We will help with cutting back and hauling switchgrass.

(R) Garlic Mustard Removal

Mon, Apr 13, 6 -8 p.m. @ Engle Rd, Big Creek Reservation in Big Creek Watershed

Join us to help restore native habitat by removing garlic mustard. We will take care to identify garlic mustard and remove it to reduce seed spread. Come prepared to carefully go off trail.

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

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

Join us for monitoring Marine Debris at Euclid Creek.

(M) City Nature Challenge

Sat, Apr 25, 10 a.m. - Noon @ Chippewa Creek, Brecksville Reservation in Chippewa Creek Watershed

Take part in the City Nature Challenge! Join Cleveland Metroparks Aquatic Research Coordinator, Claire Weldon, to identify what is living in Chippewa Creek. Learn to seine (net) and identify the aquatic macroinvertebrates (insects) living in the river that are indicators of water quality. Prior to attending the event, volunteers should download the iNaturalist app from AppStore or Google Play on their phones and create an iNaturalist account. Waterproof boots or waders are recommended. 

(S) Rain Barrel Pick-up

Wed, April 1, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. @ Olmsted Township Community Room

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 event is a rain barrel system pick-up only! 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) Beyond the Summit: Urban Impacts on Streams

Wed, April 8, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. @ Summit Lake Nature Center

Beyond the Summit is a speaker series featuring environmental professionals discussing topics related to water in Northeast Ohio. From watershed health to fishing best practices, each talk offers community members the chance to learn from experts shaping the future of our water resources. This month’s guest joins us from Summit Soil and Water Conservation District to talk about the urban impacts on local streams.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Grow Not Mow

Sat, April 11, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ Grow Not Mow Site 3, Shaker Heights

We are calling for volunteers of all ages to join us in planting more native trees and plants and removing invasives at this site adjacent to the Doan Brook. We will be planting 15-21 native species of trees and many native plants. All volunteers should come dressed for the weather. Tools and gloves will be provided, but if you have a favorite shovel, please feel free to bring it along! Families and volunteers of all ages are welcome!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) West Creek Conservancy: Annual Meeting

Tues, April 14, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. @ Ridgewood Golf and Event Center, 6505 Ridge Road, Parma OH

You are invited to attend West Creek Conservancy’s Annual Meeting to meet and mingle with our Board of Directors, staff, and fellow members/supporters. Join us as we recap 2025 and look ahead to what’s in store for 2026. The presentation will include a 2025 wrap-up and what’s on deck for 2026 and beyond. Hear from: The Honorable Timothy J. DeGeeter, Mayor of Parma; Brian Zimmerman, Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Metroparks; The Honorable Edward H. Kraus, Mayor of Solon; and Paul Palagyi, Executive Director of Lake Metroparks.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Earth Day Stream Sweep

Sat, April 18, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ Rockefeller Lagoon

Each year around Earth Day, we show the Doan Brook some love by picking up litter in and around the Doan. This year, we will once again be sweeping the Rockefeller Park section of the stream as we continue to work to remove trash from the watershed! We will gather at the parking lot near Rockefeller Lagoon, and spread out from there. Gloves and trash bags will be provided, but if you have a favorite litter cleanup setup, please feel free to bring your own tools along!

More Information and Registration Here

(S)Mushroom Hunting 101

Thurs, April 23,12:00 - 1:00 p.m. @ Webinar

Curious about foraging wild mushrooms in Ohio? Join Don King (the Mushroom Hunter) for a free webinar and learn how to forage safely. Learn the essentials of foraging for wild mushrooms in Ohio. Don King, aka The Mushroom Hunter, will share practical tips & tools to help you make your mushroom huts safer and enjoyable, as well as highlight some of the most prized and sought-after spring species you're likely to encounter. This webinar is perfect for beginners and anyone curious about responsible mushroom foraging.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Free Trees For CLE

Thurs, April 23, 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. @ Fairhill Partners

Doan Brook Watershed Partnership (DBWP) has 100 native trees to give away to Cleveland residents. Cleveland residents are eligible for two free trees and must plant the trees on Cleveland private property. Additionally, all recipients are required to attend “Tree School 101,” a 15-minute presentation on caring for and maintaining trees. Several species are available, including Red Maple, Ohio Buckeye, Eastern Redbud, American plum, and Pawpaw. Requests for specific species of trees for your yard are unavailable due to unknown species availability. Most trees will be between three and six feet in height in three to five-gallon buckets. Interested individuals must fill out a form before receiving their trees.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Dugway Brook Stream Cleanup

Sat, April 25, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ Forest Hill Park

Every year, we host stream cleanups at parks across the watershed to clean up trash and debris to keep it out of our streams and away from Lake Erie. Join the Cleveland Heights Green Team, Bluestone Conservation, and Doan Brook Watershed Partnership for our Dugway Brook Stream Cleanup at Forest Hill Park!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Solon Earth Day

Sat, April 25, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. @ Solon Community Garden

This event will feature mulch pick-up (bring your own containers), free tree saplings, and a free shuttle to a guided hike at the Solon Woods Nature Preserve, where you’ll learn about wildflowers and local animal life! Enjoy kids’ crafts, interactive activities, and informational tables from local organizations focused on sustainability and environmental awareness.

More Information and Registration Here

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

Sun, May 3, 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, May 19 (Rain Date: Fri May 22), 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.  

(S) Nine Mile Gorge Escarpment Ravine Hike with Dr. Roy Larick

Sat, May 2, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ Quarry Park North, 669 S Belvoir Blvd, South Euclid 44121

The Nine Mile gorge is the ambitious ‘hike of hikes’ for the East Side escarpment. It will run for two hours in unimproved rugged terrain. Safety is paramount. The gorge entry and exit involves a very steep slope across a 60-ft elevation change. This hike requires hikers to be comfortable navigating steep, slippery and at times uneven surfaces. During the Hike, Dr. Roy Larick will share information about the ecology and natural history of the area, so come prepared to learn!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Rain Barrel Pick-up

Thurs, May 14, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. @ Shaker Heights Service Yard

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 event is a rain barrel system pick-up only! 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) Rain Barrel Pick-up

Thurs, May 14, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. @ Veterans Plaza at the Garfield Heights Civic Center Complex behind Garfield Heights Historical Society Museum

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 event is a rain barrel system pick-up only! 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) Summit Metroparks: Native Plant Festival

Sat, May 16, 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. @ 521 S. River Rd Munroe Falls, OH 44262

Celebrate the start of summer at the 5th Annual Native Plant Festival, presented by Wayside Furniture! Discover how to create a thriving habitat for wildlife by incorporating beautiful, beneficial native plants into your landscape. Meet Summit Metro Parks staff, local nurseries, landscapers and community partners to learn about the vital role native plants play in our ecosystem. Shop a wide selection of native plants for sale or join an educational session for expert tips on native gardening. Visitors will receive a FREE seedling or seed packet, while supplies last.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Beyond the Summit: Summit Lake Fish Biodiversity

Wed, May 27, 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. @ Summit Lake Nature Center

Beyond the Summit is a speaker series featuring environmental professionals discussing topics related to water in Northeast Ohio. From watershed health to fishing best practices, each talk offers community members the chance to learn from experts shaping the future of our water resources. This month’s guest joins us from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife to talk about Summit Lake fish biodiversity.

More Information and Registration Here

(M) Scenic Rivers Macro Monitoring

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

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

July 13 9 - 10:30 a.m. meeting followed by 60 min tour

(E) Sturgeon Fest

September 19