The audience at Blackbrook Audubon's speaker program in March learned that June 16 is World Sea Turtle Day. As Blackbrook wraps up another year, they will celebrate turtles and other species at their annual potluck picnic beside East Branch Reservoir at Headwaters Park. Blackbrook reserved the lodge, or boathouse, close to the south entrance of the park. Everyone is invited to 13365 Old State Road, or Rt. 608, in Claridon Twp. about 6:00 p.m. at the second parking lot. Bring a place setting, beverage and a dish to share. Blackbrook will bring the hot dogs which will be ready about 6:30 p.m. Feel free to bring a guest!
Headwaters Park is leased from the City of Akron. More than two miles of the statewide Buckeye Trail winds along the western shore of East Branch Reservoir. The eastern shore and all islands are designated preserves and only accessible during naturalist-led programs. The lodge has picnic tables both inside and under the overhang. There are electrical outlets, but no water for drinking or cleaning. Vault-style restrooms are available with no running water. With only a few days until summer solstice, the group will look for turtles and other wildlife on a short bird walk after dinner.
Everyone who brought their own mug for coffee or tea at Blackbrook’s April or May program or to the Big Sit in May was eligible for the BYOM raffle. Blackbrook will draw the winning ticket at the picnic and the winner will receive a $25 gift card to a feed store or native plant nursery. The winner is not required to attend the picnic.
Blackbrook Audubon closes their annual schedule on the third Tuesday in June with a potluck picnic for its members, guests and anyone interested in birding. Blackbrook’s Board is planning next year’s events. Anyone with a suggestion for a field trip location or a program topic can share ideas with a board member.
Blackbrook Audubon Society is the chapter of National Audubon covering Ashtabula, Geauga and Lake counties. Follow Blackbrook Audubon Society on Facebook. For more information, email blackbrookaud@aol.com.
Photo: Hooded Warbler by Deb Schuster