Meandering Streams
These two beautiful photos show a stream meandering through the forest in Miami Whitewater Forest. But what does it mean to say that a stream is “meandering?” Many of us may be familiar with…
Hidden Gems of Great Parks
Great Parks of Hamilton County manages four conservation areas that are dedicated solely for the protection of natural habitats and the wildlife that reside within these areas. One of these conservation areas is Newberry Wildlife…
Using Fire as a Tool
Most people associate the month of March with the end of winter and the beginning of spring. However, in the Stewardship Department, we recognize March as the beginning of our prescribed burn season. Prescribed burning…
The Cool Science of Cold Water
As cold temperatures settle in across the Midwest and our lakes and ponds freeze, many people look forward to winter activities such as ice skating and ice fishing. But fun opportunities like these can only…
Winter Birrrrrrrding
Birds are tough little creatures, enduring harsh conditions that we tend to avoid at all costs. Many birds build up fat stores before winter, which can serve dual purposes. For birds that migrate south, this…
Managing a Space for All Species: Monarchs in Great Parks
Over the past few years, the Great Parks Stewardship department has been aware of declining monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) sightings. The department has since taken steps to help promote and protect their habitat. In the…
Silent Symphony
Most commonly called fireflies or lightning bugs, these interesting insects are in fact a beetle and members of the family Lampyridae, Greek for “shining ones.” The familiar luminescent beetles are recognized for their nighttime display…
Ladybugs to the Rescue!
Every year throughout the spring, summer and fall, we see thousands of insects around us outdoors. The majority of these insects are not a problem for us. However, some are a problem for certain plants,…