Natural Areas Field Trip: | Along Bear Creek: Exploring the Floyd Preserve

Join Curator Emeritus of Vertebrate Zoology Dr. Tim Matson for this exploration of the Museum's Floyd Preserve in Ashtabula County.

Composed of three separate tracts, the Floyd Preserve protects a variety of habitats, from seepage wetland systems to stately upland forests. Bear Creek, a pristine coldwater stream, flows through the heart of the preserve. Dr. Matson will use a seine net to search for chub, stoneroller, and dace—all native fish species that depend on clean, cold, rocky streams for their survival. We’ll also explore Floyd’s older growth forest of beech, basswood, black cherry, and cucumber magnolia, and poke about the several ponds that support large populations of spotted salamander, wood frog, and eastern newt.

After hiking, we’ll make the short drive to a historic Ashtabula County winery just a couple of miles away. All are welcome. This will be a varied and interesting hike. Please join us!

Location

Directions will be emailed to registrants prior to the date of the field trip.

Field Trip Intensity

Moderate (there are hills, and possibly wet areas); family-friendly

What to Bring

Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, and perhaps bring a walking stick or binoculars; don’t forget a bottle of water.

Registration

Nonmembers: $10
Members: $5
Leadership Circle: Free

Note: Members and Leadership Circle, please make sure you are signed in to your account to receive your discount, which will be reflected on the payment page.