Ashley Houdeshell, Volunteer Coordinator

I would like to reflect on the recent tornado that ripped through our town just a few short weeks ago. This was the first time the city of Greenville has experienced a weather event of this magnitude. Our community witnessed first-hand the destructive power of nature. Although, even more powerful than the tornado, was the response from the community. No sooner than the wind stopped blowing, began the immediate response from our city’s first responders, EMS personnel, city, and county employees. Neighbors, family, and friends were also there; offering all they could to help those directly affected. Churches, food banks, and many local businesses all offered their services, food, and water to support those in need.

The support has continued in the weeks to follow, as the cleanup is ongoing. It was so comforting to see that our city was prepared for an event such as this. Just as comforting to witness was that our community members were so willing to lend a helping hand. This experience has shown how strong a community can be when everyone comes together; when everyone lends a helping hand in support of others. It was a blessing that there were no serious injuries or deaths reported. However, our community did lose something incredibly special to us that day; our trees. It was estimated that approximately 80% of the trees in the city park were destroyed; completely altering our natural landscape. Both the city and the county parks lost trees that were hundreds of years old. Although we will replant trees, we cannot get back those old growth trees. This is a heartbreaking example that when something is gone, it is gone for good. This loss highlights the importance of enjoying and appreciating the natural beauty of our area while we still can.

I encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty that is all around you. There are so many unique natural areas within our county. The mission of Darke County Parks is to maintain and protect these natural areas for the county residents and future generations. There are multiple preserves, meadows, wetlands, sanctuaries, trails, and facilities to visit within the Darke County Park District. There are many ways for you to support the mission of the Darke County Parks. Attend the free public events offered by Darke County Parks, register for the programs, hike the trails, rent a kayak to float the creek, visit the Bish Discovery Center, the Bear’s Mill, and the Nature Center at Shawnee Prairie. If you are interested in helping support Darke County Parks by offering your time and talents; consider becoming a volunteer.

Volunteers are vital to the success of the park district and as we have experienced, a community is stronger when its members come together to lend a helping hand. As the new volunteer coordinator, it is my pleasure to assist you along your volunteer journey. There are so many ways to assist the park district. Do you have an interest in history and/or theatre? Consider being a period re-enactor for the parks. Do you have an interest in animal care; we have raptors, turtles, snakes, and a flying squirrel that you can train to care for. Do you want to pursue a career in education, youth programming, administration, or maintenance? Volunteering for the Darke County Parks is a great starting place to gain invaluable training, skills, and experience. Volunteering is great for your well-being and is something that employers look for on your resume.

Further information on becoming a volunteer, event dates, and park locations can be found on our website, darkecountyparks.org. Please reach out via phone or email with any questions. The Darke County Parks values your support, and we hope to see you enjoying the

parks this summer. Most importantly, get outside to enjoy the natural beauty of your county, because as we have witnessed it can all be gone in an instant.

Elli Earwood, Seasonal Naturalist

            My name is Elizabeth (Elli) Earwood and I have just begun my seasonal position with Darke County Parks as their Naturalist Educator. I am just beginning my career, but I have learned I have a passion for education and conservation. Herpetology, or the study of reptiles and amphibians, has been a large focus of my studies. If you have followed the news lately than you have probably seen that a massasauga was found during a routine snake survey in May around Huron county. This has sparked a large amount of controversy and some misinformation to be spread about the species. This misinformation is incredibly dangerous to the conservation of the species as they are considered to be threatened, bordering on endangered.

I am here to help educate and debunk some of the information that has been spread in headlines. I think we often see clickbait titles with scary headlines and immediately assume we are in grave danger. The use of the word “rare”, “venomous”, and “viper” have struck fear into some people. I am here to tell you that snakes really aren’t that scary, especially the massasauga. With that being said, I am not saying you should approach or touch wildlife. I am a firm believer in leaving that to the professionals. The rule of thumb with snakes is if you leave it alone, it’ll leave you alone. Most of the time they’re actually coexisting with you and doing you favors, regardless of if you’re aware of it. A great example of that, which are much more common, are midland rat snakes. You may see them scaling trees, or maybe at your local nature center (his name is Jasper, you should come meet him!). These are a species that mean no harm and no foul, but if they’re really a bother to you, can be moved by professionals. All you have to do is give them a call. This same rule of thumb applies to the unlikely instance that you may meet any form of venomous snake on your journey.

While venom is something to be taken incredibly seriously, massasaugas are not as lethal as the headlines are making them sound. They have small fangs that inject a small amount of venom, not enough to kill a healthy adult. It also takes a great deal of effort to agitate them enough to get them to strike. They are known to steer clear of humans, which is another reason the state was so ecstatic to have spotted one. Not to mention, the chances of your spotting one in our neck of the woods are almost zero, so there is nothing to fear. Overall the likelihood of you spotting a massasauga are slim to none, but in the off chance you do, respect it from afar! Here at the parks we believe in coexisting with nature, and more importantly in the conservation of species. The best snake is one that plays its vital role in the ecosystem. Come see our live classroom and meet a few scaly animal ambassadors, ask any questions you may have, and enjoy learning something new. If the scaly critters aren’t for you make sure to keep up with our events. Our staff works hard to keep the community engaged with the outdoors. We hope to see you soon!