FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
BOB ROTATORI 216-635-3263 -or-
MARJORIE THOMAS 216-635-3204
Shed the winter blues and get outside this spring and enjoy nature. Cleveland Metroparks Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) is offering a variety of outdoor recreation adventures for outdoor novices and enthusiasts.
IGO provides a wide range of outdoor experiences for people of all abilities. Participants canenjoy the knowledge and expertise of seasoned instructors with all IGO courses and trips and have fun at the same time.
IGO can help people develop or enhance their outdoor skills, knowledge and environmental ethics with the following programs.
March to Waterfowl and Raptors
March 28 � 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. � Garfield Park Nature Center � Garfield Park Reservation
As winter subsides, the marshes, lakes and reservoirs awaken with the wing beats of migrant waterfowl, raptors and wetland birds. Adults are invited to join naturalist Jen Brumfield to travel from Lake Erie's shores to riversides, reservoirs, fields and marshes of Cuyahoga and Lorain counties. If the weather is right, we'll conduct a hawk watch hoping to spy osprey, eagles, vultures and several species of hawks and falcons. Be a part of this big day of serious birding and serious fun.Fee is $59 and includes transportation and lunch. Late fee applies after March 21.
Conneaut Raptor Day
April 19 � 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. � Garfield Park Nature Center � Garfield Park Reservation
Unless you visit key sites along Lake Erie in April, you would not know that hundreds of raptors use the shoreline as funneling and kettling points on their journey northwards. The awe-inspiring sight of flocks of vultures, red-tailed, broad-winged and sharp-shinned hawks - plus eagles, falcons and osprey - is one of the region's best-kept secrets. Naturalist Jen Brumfield takes you on this journey to witness migration in its splendor, and to learn the ins and outs of identifying hawks in flight. Fee is $59 and includes transportation and lunch. Late fee applies after April 11.
Magee Marsh Birding Adventure
Trip A: May 3 � Leaders: Weirich/Brumfield
Trip B: May 7 � Leaders: Brumfield/Krynak
Trip C: May 14 � Leader: Brumfield
6 a.m. - 5 p.m. � Garfield Park Nature Center � Garfield Park Reservation
Join us to visit one of the hottest spots in the country to watch warblers as they migrate through North America. Whether you are just learning about birds or are a seasoned birder, this day of winged wonders is sure to delight. Bring your binoculars and birding spirit. Fee is $59 and includes transportation and lunch. Late fee applies after April 26 and May 6. Transportation available at Columbia Road RTA park and ride, located off I-90 at 6:15 a.m.
Register online at clevelandmetorparks.com. For more information, call 216-341-1704.
Experience the great outdoors on an eco tour with the Institute of the Great Outdoors of Cleveland Metroparks - part of your life, naturally.
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