Darke County Parks invites students in grades 3-6 to join them for the Jr. Naturalists program on Saturday, January 28th from 9:30am to 12pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve on St. Rt. 502 west of Greenville.  This month will focus on seeds and biodiversity. Seeds were one of the first commodities valued and traded. For millennia gardeners traded their saved seeds to try new varieties, save money, and improve their garden’s diversity. Students will look at the differences between heirloom and hybrid seeds, learn how to properly collect and store seeds, and do some trading of their own.

The Jr. Naturalists is a series of monthly programs designed to give 3rd-6th grade students hands-on interaction with the natural world and a look at our current and historical place within it. Hikes, games, crafts, and service projects are all a part of this exciting integrated study group. A fee of $3 is charged for the program, and registration is required. For questions about the Jr. Naturalists program or any other park district programs or to register for the January class, please call the park office at (937) 548-0165 or email info@darkecountyparks.org.

Did you know?  Communities around the world host seed swapping events in the late winter in preparation for spring planting. 

Darke County Parks is hosting a series of fitness programs called Naturally Fit occurring the third Monday of every month. Everyone wants to lead healthier lives and spend more time outdoors. However, workout machines aren’t always environmentally friendly, gyms aren’t very exciting, and the cold winter weather makes it even less appealing. Besides, sometimes life just gets in the way! Use these programs as an “excuse” to schedule time outside and get moving. Each of these programs focuses more on fitness than nature, with everyone moving at their own pace, whether that’s one loop or ten. The January program will take place January 16th at 4pm at Tecumseh Point in Greenville. This short loop near scenic Greenville Creek will make that last 1,000 steps of the day easy to finish. The park is located on the south west side of the Greenville Creek Bridge on north Broadway in Greenville. Meet there, and don’t forget to bring a water bottle. The brisk winter air will do your lungs (and the rest of your body) some good. For questions or weather updates, call the Nature Center at 548-0165.

Did you know? A hiking staff or trekking poles can make it so much easier and safer to continue exercising outside in winter.