2019 Events

January

February

Supplemental Event: Erie Hack 2.0 Team Formation*

Tue, Feb 12, 5 - 9 p.m. @ Midtown Tech Hive

Erie Hack is an innovation challenge that accelerates technology solutions to Lake Erie’s most pressing problems. During several months in 2019, Erie Hack will empower researchers, designers, engineers, developers and creatives around the region to build teams, develop innovations, and compete for more than $100,000 in prizes. Erie Hack 2.0 will kick off in January 2019 and culminate on June 20, which is near the 50th anniversary of the burning of the Cuyahoga River. (Supplemental: Learning) 

Invasive Plants Beyond the Backyard Talk*

Wed, Feb 13, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Learn why some plants are invasive and how Cleveland Metroparks manages them. Invasive Plant Coordinator Jennifer Hillmer will share updates from prior volunteer invasive plant projects and preview the 2019 invasive removal schedule. We will explore possibilities for deeper learning and involvement in invasive plant management. Open to the public and all ages. (Restoration/Learning) | Presentation slides and resources here, please seek permission before sharing via wvpinfo@clevelandmetroparks.com.

Supplemental Event: Euclid Creek Water Quality 'Monitoring Party'

Thu, Feb 21, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Acacia Reservation Clubhouse, 26899 Cedar Rd. Lyndhurst, Ohio 44124 

Meet the crew and help brainstorm the 2019 plans to monitor water quality in Euclid Creek watershed. (Supplemental: Monitoring) 

Workshop: Stream Dynamics 101

Wed, Feb 27, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Join Paul Kovalcik, Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District's Stormwater Projects Specialist, for an indoor introductory course on stream dynamics. Learn about the major components of streams and how they interact to shape the form and function of the channel and floodplain. The class will include a brief summary of watershed hydrology, channel hydraulics, geomorphology, biological and chemical water quality; as well as discussion of how we influence these components. The class will also provide background for an outdoor stream walk in April. (Learning) | View presentation slides here.    

March

Supplemental Event: Crooked Chronicles- A Century of River Clean Up in Cuyahoga Valley*

Fr, Mar 1, 6 - 9 p.m. @ Happy Days Lodge, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, 500 West Streetsboro Street State Rt. 303, Peninsula, 44264

How was the Cuyahoga River transformed from a health hazard to the centerpiece of a national park? A panel of experts piece together the 100-year story within Cuyahoga Valley using historic photos, archival documents, and personal memories. Come join the discussion. Moderated by the League of Women Voters Akron Area. Supported by West Creek Conservancy, Xtinguish Celebration, Ohio Humanities and Cleveland Humanities Festival. Free admission, but advance registration is preferred. Doors open at 6 p.m. with drop-in tables about current environmental projects. (Supplemental: Learning) 

WVP Outreach Table: Crooked Chronicles- A Century of River Clean Up in Cuyahoga Valley

Fr, Mar 1, 5 - 9:30 p.m. @ Happy Days Lodge, Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps event attendees make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found at here. (Outreach)

Monday MeetUp: Fish Habitat Along the Shipping Channel* 

Mon, Mar 4, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Canalway Center, Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, 4524 East 49th Street, Cuyahoga Heights

Where do fish rest, eat, and hide along the shipping channel? Habitat for Hard Places is a program of Cuyahoga River Restoration (CRR) that works to provide fish habitat in various forms along the 6-mile 22-foot-deep channel between the natural river and Lake Erie. Young fish, especially, need places to rest, feed, and hide from predators, on and behind the bulkheads. CRR will show what has been installed and what’s coming up. Open to the public and all ages. (Learning) | View presentation slides here. 

Work Session: Native Plant Germination Preparation

Wed, Mar 6, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center (LOCATION CHANGE)

Help get the native seedling germination process started. You will work in the lab and in an unheated garage. Arrive between 5:30 and 6 p.m. ready to get your hands dirty. Limited to 8 WVP volunteers. (Restoration)

Supplemental Event: Rain Barrel Workshop*

Sun, Mar 10, 2:30 - 4 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Learn to harvest rain water for all your garden needs and combat stormwater pollution in your community. Each workshop participant will construct one rain barrel to take home. Be ready to transport it. Discounted fee thanks to a River Network grant, while supplies last (limit one per household at discounted rate). Fee is $20 including one 55-gallon barrel and all materials. (Supplemental: Learning)

Work Session: Live Stake Harvesting

Tues, Mar 12, 1 - 2:30 p.m. @ Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, Rocky River Reservation

Join the Natural Resources Area Manager Tim Krynak in cutting Red Osier Dogwoods encroaching on trails. These cuttings will be then used to provide live stake material for restoration projects, including at Huntington Reservation's bluff the following day. (Restoration) 

WVP Outreach Table: World Water Day/Student Day

Fri, Mar 22, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. @ Greater Cleveland Aquarium  

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps 150 students make a connection with watershed stewardship. More info about the event can be found at here. (Outreach) 

WVP Outreach Table: World Water Day

Sat, Mar 23, various shift options @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found at Cleveland Metroparks event calendar here. (Outreach) 

Workshop: Vernal Pool Monitoring

Wed, Mar 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. @ North Chagrin Nature Center, North Chagrin Reservation, 401 Buttermilk Falls Parkway, Willoughby Hills 44094

We will start inside for a brief introduction to vernal pools by Natural Resource Area Manager Tim Krynak. Then, we will head out to several pools to explore the diversity, talk about amphibian disease and monitoring. (Monitoring) | Resources can be found here.

Work Session: Bioengineering

Sat, Mar 30, 9 a.m. – Noon and 1 - 4 p.m. @ Strongsville Backyard Preserve (behind the Ehrnfelt Rec Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., Strongsville)

Assist Cuyahoga SWCD and Rocky River Watershed Council with the installation of live stakes, live fascines and brush mattresses along eroding streambanks in Strongsville's Backyard Preserve. The project will result in a streambank bioengineering demonstration site for landowners in the Rocky River Watershed. There will be both a morning session (9 a.m. - Noon) and an afternoon session (1 p.m. - 4 p.m.) to select the session that works better for your schedule. (Restoration)

April

Supplemental Event: Rain Barrel Workshop*

Sun, Apr 7, 2:30 - 4 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Learn to harvest rain water for all your garden needs and combat stormwater pollution in your community. Each workshop participant will construct one rain barrel to take home. Be ready to transport it. Discounted fee thanks to a River Network grant, while supplies last (limit one per household at discounted rate). Fee is $20 including one 55-gallon barrel and all materials. (Supplemental: Learning) 

Supplemental Event: Streambank Stabilization

Mon, Apr 8, (rain date: Apr 9) 9 a.m. - noon @ Willoughby-Eastlake School of Innovation, 32500 Chardon Rd Willoughby Hills, OH

Assist in the installation of live stakes along newly stabilized streambanks behind Willoughby-Eastlake School of Innovation. The project will result in a streambank stabilization demonstration site in the Euclid Creek Watershed. Bring ID and sign-in at schools front desk. Dress for weather and working in wet areas. (Supplemental: Restoration)

Monday MeetUp: Becoming a River Park + Certified Watershed Steward Presentation*

Mon, Apr 8, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Hines Hill Conference Center, Cuyahoga Valley National Park

A story of renewal and river restoration in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.  Join park managers to discuss river related projects, recreational visitor use, and our vision of ecosystem renewal of the river. Help us recognize the newest certified watershed stewards with a short presentation at the start of the event. (Learning) | See presentation slides here

Congratulations to our newest certified watershed stewards that received their certification at this event:

• John Barber

• Timothy Bencic

• Roger Judson

• Jason Linkous

• Pawel Rybak

• Samantha Salettel

• Peggy Spaeth

• Breoni Turner

• Theresa Walsh

• Laurie Wolf

Supplemental Event: Euclid Creek Cleanup* 

Sat, Apr 13, 9 a.m. - noon @ Quarry Picnic Area, Euclid Creek Reservation 

Join a WVP Certified Watershed Steward who has taken initiative to organize Euclid Creek watershed cleanups in partnership with Cuyahoga County Soil & Water Conservation District. Meet at the Quarry Picnic Area to remove trash throughout the area before it flows downstream. Closed toed sturdy shoes are required and long pants and sleeves are highly recommended. Bring a water bottle and snack. We will work on uneven terrain rain or shine. (Supplemental: Restoration)

Rain Garden 101 Talk* 

Tues, Apr 16, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation 

Rain gardens are not only beautiful but functional. They help control stormwater runoff (rain) from hard surfaces such as roofs and driveways by holding it in place to soak into the ground slowly. In addition, the roots of the plants and soil help to filter pollutants the stormwater collects along the way. Stormwater pollution is the number one source of pollution on our waterways. Learn more about rain gardens and how you can plant one. (Learning) | View slides and resources here

Supplemental Event: Euclid Creek Water Quality Monitoring Training

Thu, Apr 25, noon - 1:00 p.m. @ Telling Mansion, 4645 Mayfield Rd., South Euclid, OH 

Come and learn about the Euclid Creek Watershed Program's volunteer water quality monitoring and how to be a part of it. At this training, you'll learn different ways a stream can be impacted and the monitoring protocol. The training is hands on and outside, so be prepared to get wet! (Supplemental: Learning)

WVP Outreach Table: EarthFest

Thu, Apr 25, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. @ Cleveland State University

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

May

Training: Field Safety and Sustainability

Fri, May 3, 2 - 3:30 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Let's keep thinking safety and sustainability. This training will take a behavior-based approach to talking about safety and focus on a set of safety principles applicable to multiple situations. Then we will explore best practices for sustainability within Cleveland Metroparks that all volunteers can take part in. This training is highly recommended for any WVP volunteer that plans to assist with monitoring and restoration projects this year; this is a repeat of the March session. (Learning) | Presentation slides here.

Work Session: Rain Gardening*

Sat, May 11, 9:30 a.m. - noon @ Klusner Avenue & W. Parkview Drive, Parma

Rain gardens are beautiful and functional. They help control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which is the number one source of pollution in our waterways. Learn more about rain gardens and assist with caring for the community rain gardens within West Creek watershed. Wear closed toe shoes. Tools, gloves, and instructions provided. (Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Wetland Planting*

Thu, May 16, 9 a.m. - noon (rain date: May 17) @ Willoughby-Eastlake School of Innovation, 32500 Chardon Rd Willoughby Hills, OH

Assist in the installation of wetland plants in newly created wetlands behind Willoughby-Eastlake School of Innovation. The project will result in a streambank stabilization demonstration site in the Euclid Creek Watershed. Bring ID and sign-in at school's front desk. Dress for weather and working in wet areas. (Supplemental: Restoration)

Training: Integrated Vegetation Management Session 1

Thu, May 16, 6:30 - 8 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center classroom, 2277 W. Ridgewood Dr, Parma, OH 

This two-part training is for those interested in assisting with selective herbicide application for invasive plant control. Limited to 15 WVP stewards by invitation only that will commit to three invasive plant removal work sessions in 2019 with volunteer groups or Natural Resources staff.

Session 1 will be a classroom session to introduce the Ohio Department of Agriculture's Trained Serviceperson requirements, plus specific training from Cleveland Metroparks Natural Resources manuals. 

Session 2 will be a field practicum on Fri, May 31 at 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (rain date: Fri, Jun 7 same time) in Brecksville Reservation, where we will put our classroom training to work at a recently-acquired site in Brecksville Reservation. 

Advance registration is required. Attendance at Session 1 is a prerequisite for registration for Session 2. (Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Wetland and Stream Cleanup*

Sat, May 18 (River Day), 10 a.m. - noon @ Wildwood Park Shelter, Euclid Creek Reservation, E. 174th St. and Lakeshore Blvd, Cleveland, OH

Help with spring cleaning of Wildwood Park within Euclid Creek watershed. Clean up trash, remove invasive plants like Garlic Mustard, and assist with other maintenance activities in the wetland and streamside at the Wildwood Lacustrine Wetland. Dress for the weather wearing long sleeves, pants, boots or closed toe work shoes. Recommended to bring water and work gloves. Trash bags and tools will be provided. (Supplemental: Restoration) 

WVP Outreach Table: Wild & Scenic Film Fest

Sun, May 19, 3 - 7:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Happy Days Lodge, Peninsula, OH

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found here. (Independent Project: Outreach)

Supplemental Event: Garlic Mustard Removal*

Tue, May 21, 6 - 8:30 p.m. @ Hemlock Creek Picnic Area, Bedford Reservation

Help native habitat thrive by removing garlic mustard with our watershed partner-- Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners. Learn how to identify garlic mustard and how to carefully remove it to reduce spread. Come prepared to carefully go off trail with closed toe shoes, long sleeves, and pants. Gloves will be provided. (Supplemental: Restoration)

Native Planting Along West Creek 

Wed, May 29, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Restoration site, 7800 Broadview Rd, Parma, OH

Help put the finishing touches on a restoration project along West Creek and learn about the unique approach to urban stream restoration. The project focused on restoring 525 linear feet of West Creek, which had been straightened, entrenched and disconnected from its floodplain. The approach was to restore floodplain connectivity and aquatic habitat by installing a series of cobble riffles, a multi-thread channel, and boulder cascades. Together, we will plant 250 native plant plugs along the stream to complete the project. (Restoration) 

Training: Integrated Vegetation Management Session 2

Fri, May 31, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (rain date: Fri, Jun 7) @ Brecksville Reservation 

This is the second session of the two-part training is for those interested in assisting with selective herbicide application for invasive plant control. Limited to 15 WVP stewards by invitation only that will commit to three invasive plant removal work sessions in 2019 with volunteer groups or Natural Resources staff.

Advance registration is required. Attendance at Session 1 is a prerequisite for registration for Session 2. (Restoration)

June

Supplemental Event: Tree Planting* 

Sat, Jun 1, 8 a.m. - noon @ Aurora Shores Marina, 863 Collica Cove, Aurora, OH 44202

Help Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners install different green infrastructure projects at Aurora Shores starting with 50 American Sycamore trees. Learn how to properly plant a tree, and the benefits of trees when dealing with stormwater issues. No experience is required. Soil, mulch, fencing, and tools will all be provided. Children under 18 must have adult supervision. (Supplemental: Restoration) 

WVP Outreach Table: Rocky River Cleanup

Sat, Jun 1, 8:15 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ Rocky River Reservation, Scenic Park Picnic Area (by Emerald Necklace Marina| Get directions here)

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

Supplemental Event: Rocky River Cleanup* 

Sat, Jun 1, 9 a.m. - noon @ Rocky River Reservation, Scenic Park Picnic Area (by Emerald Necklace Marina | Get directions here)

Local fishermen and concerned citizens are banding together to tackle trash in the Rocky River. The annual cleanup will clean trash and debris from most of the lower 10-12 miles of the river in the Rocky River Reservation. Come give a hand to improve the Rocky River watershed. Lunch provided afterwards. Dress for the weather and wear work boots or old shoes. Long sleeves, slacks and work gloves are recommended. Children under 18 must have adult supervision.(Supplemental: Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Big Creek Watershed Cleanup* 

Sat, Jun 1, 9 a.m. - noon @ various locations

Big Creek Connects and Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District with the support of community stakeholders will host the 21st annual cleanup. Volunteers are needed to help pick up stream-side trash at 3 sites in Cleveland, Brooklyn, and Parma/Parma Heights. Bags, refreshments, and work gloves provided. Children under 18 must have adult supervision. (Supplemental: Restoration) 

Work Session: Rain Gardening*

Thu, Jun 6, 1 - 3 p.m. @ Wildwood Park, Euclid Creek Reservation

Rain gardens and bioswales control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which flow into our watershed from impermeable surfaces like roads and parking lots. Come learn and help maintain rain gardens and bioswales throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Closed toe shoes required. Tools, gloves, instructions also provided. (Restoration) 

Euclid Creek Cleanup* 

Sat, Jun 8, 9 a.m. - noon @ Rear Quarry Picnic Area, Euclid Creek Reservation 

Join a WVP Certified Watershed Steward who has taken initiative to organize Euclid Creek watershed cleanups in partnership with Cuyahoga County Soil & Water Conservation District. Meet at the Quarry Picnic Area to remove trash throughout the area before it flows downstream. Closed toed sturdy shoes are required and long pants and sleeves are highly recommended. Bring a water bottle and snack. We will work on uneven terrain rain or shine. (Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Rain Gardening*

Tue, Jun 11, 2019 at 6 – 8 p.m. @ Community Rain Gardens, Parma 

Rain gardens are beautiful and functional. They help control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which is the number one source of pollution in our waterways. Learn more about rain gardens and assist with caring for the community rain gardens within West Creek watershed. Wear closed toe shoes. Tools, gloves, and instructions provided. (Supplemental: Restoration)

Workshop: Scenic Rivers Stream Quality Monitoring

Wed, Jun 12 at 6 - 8 p.m. @ Buchert Memorial Park picnic shelter, E. High Street, Mantua

Join us to learn from our partners at Ohio Department of Natural Resources about the state Scenic Rivers monitoring program. Learn how stream life is used to indicate water quality and how you can be part of monitoring efforts on the Upper Cuyahoga River as a WVP Independent Project. Wear clothing to be on the river rain or shine. (Monitoring)

Work Session: Rain Gardening*

Thu, Jun 13, 10 a.m. - Noon @ North Chagrin Nature Center Parking Lot

Rain gardens and bioswales control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which flow into our watershed from impermeable surfaces like roads and parking lots. Come learn and help maintain rain gardens and bioswales throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Closed toe shoes required. Tools, gloves, instructions also provided. (Restoration)

Supplemental Event: Rain Gardening*

Sat, Jun 15, 2019 at 9 - 11:30 a.m. @ Community Rain Gardens, Parma 

Rain gardens are beautiful and functional. They help control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which is the number one source of pollution in our waterways. Learn more about rain gardens and assist with caring for the community rain gardens within West Creek watershed. Wear closed toe shoes. Tools, gloves, and instructions provided. (Supplemental: Restoration) 

WVP Outreach Table: Cuyahoga50 at Rivergate Park

Sat, Jun 22, various shift options @ Rivergate Park/Merwin's Wharf, 1785 Merwin Avenue, Cleveland, OH 

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

WVP Outreach Table: Cuyahoga50 at North Coast Harbor

Sun, Jun 23, various shift options @ Rock and Roll Hall of Fame & Great Lakes Science Center, Cleveland, OH 

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found here. (Independent Project: Outreach) .

Work Session: Rain Gardening* - CANCELLED

Mon, Jun 24, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Edgewater Beach, Lakefront Reservation

Rain gardens and bioswales control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which flow into our watershed from impermeable surfaces like roads and parking lots. Come learn and help maintain rain gardens and bioswales throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Closed toe shoes required. Tools, gloves, instructions also provided. (Restoration)  

July

Supplemental: Euclid Depave Planting Project* 

Sat, Jul 13, 9 a.m. - Noon @ Euclid Streets and Sewer Department, 25500 Lakeland Blvd Euclid 

Come join Bluestone Heights, Cuyahoga SWCD, Keep Euclid Beautiful, and City of Euclid Staff as we learn about the many benefits of native plants while helping to install plants in the recently depaved area around the Euclid Service Department. Be prepared to work in sunlight and get dirty. Dress for the weather. Bring your own: water, trowel/spade, gloves, and a friend (or two!). Drop in anytime from 9 - noon and stay for as long as you like. (Supplemental: Restoration)

Talk: Cuyahoga 50th Legal History and Future

Wed, Jul 17, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Canalway Center, Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, 4524 East 49th Street, Cuyahoga Heights 

Learn the legal history before and after the fire on the Cuyahoga River 50 years ago (June 22). Hear from several local legal officers on recent changes to Federal Regulations and where we go from here. Panelist will include: Lou McMahon and Keely J. O'Bryan attorneys with McMahon Degulis LLP; and Rosalina M. Fini, Chief Legal & Ethics Officer with Cleveland Metroparks. (Learning) | View presentation slides here. 

WVP Outreach Table: PaddleFest*

Sat, Jul 20, various shift options @ Wendy Park,  Lakefront Reservation, Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, OH 44102 

Share your watershed knowledge and passion! Represent Watershed Volunteer Program with information and an interactive activity that helps kids and adults make a connection with watershed stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. More info about the event can be found here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

Supplemental Event: Sewer University*

Tue, Jul 23, 2 - 4 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Sewer University is an introductory level workshop designed for Northeast Ohioans interested in learning more about the history and future of sewers, water quality, and sustainability in the region. This unique two-hour workshop is presented by NEORSD’s Director of Watershed Programs Frank Greenland. Frank will cover topics like regional history, sewer types and functions, stormwater problems, green infrastructure and more. (Supplemental: Learning) 

Day in the Life of Tinker's Creek*

Sat, Jul 27, 9:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. @ Astorhurst Trailhead, Bedford Reservation

Let's explore a day in the life of Tinker's Creek watershed. We will board a bus to start our journey to various locations along the watershed. Each stop will have an opportunity explore water quality, the life in and along the creek, and restoration efforts. Restrooms will be provided at the mid-point of our journey. A catered lunch can be purchased here on a first come basis. Special thanks to our event partners, including: Tinker's Creek Watershed Partners, City of Hudson, Friends of Hudson Parks, and the City of Twinsburg. (Monitoring) 

Supplemental Event: Lake County Master Rain Gardener Course*

In-Person Course: Wed, Jul 31, Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ Lake Metroparks Lakefront Lodge, 30525 Lake Shore Blvd., Willowick

Online Course: August 26 – October 5

This Master Rain Gardener Program will teach you how to install rain gardens on a residential scale. Rain gardens naturally manage stormwater by infiltrating precipitation and allowing it to soak into the ground rather than sending it directly to storm sewers and nearby streams untreated. Experienced instructors will provide customized feedback which will enable you to design and install a rain garden. Topics will include site assessment, soil analysis, design, construction, plant selection, mulching, and maintenance. This five-week course is open to residents of Lake, Geauga, and Cuyahoga counties and can be taken in-person or online. (Supplemental: Learning) 

Special WVP Excursion

Wed, Jul 31, 4 - 7 p.m. - CANCELLED due to wind and waves

This is the Monday MeetUp special excursion for those that attended four of the first six Monday Meetups in 2019. Invites were emailed to those that qualify. If questions, contact us at wvpinfo@clevelandmetroparks.com.

August

Training: Educating Others on Watershed Stewardship

Mon, Aug 5, 10 - 11:30 a.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Want to be part of the WVP Outreach Crew as a special/independent project? Come learn the tips and tricks of educating others on watershed stewardship. We will explore what it means to do informal education and community outreach. The WVP tabling activities and displays will be showcased. (Outreach) 

Work Session: Freshwater Mussel Survey & Relocation

TBD for a week day in August @ Bonnie Park, Mill Stream Run Reservation, Strongsville, OH

Be part of the on-call team to work with Cleveland Metroparks and Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District staff to survey for freshwater mussels and relocate any found mussels. There will be a brief overview on the project prior to getting in the water. This project is in conjunction with the dam removal at Bonnie Park. Once we get the go on the dam removal, we will send notification of when the team will do this work. (Restoration) | WVP volunteers that want to be on this on-call list, please email wvpinfo@clevelandmetroparks.com by Mon, Aug 5.

Work Session: Glossy Buckthorn Removal*

Wed, Aug 7, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. @ Sunset Pond, North Chagrin Nature Center, North Chagrin Reservation

Help remove invasive glossy buckthorn from floodplain and forest habitat to provide area for native vegetation to succeed. Come prepared with long pants, sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Instruction and hand tools provided. (Restoration)

Special Project: WVP Outreach Table @ Backyard Nature Bash

Sat, Aug 17, various shift options @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Share your watershed knowledge and #NEOWaterSteward experience. We’re looking for a few watershed stewards to lead an outreach display and activity that helps kids and adults increase watershed stewardship in their backyards. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. (Independent Project: Outreach)

Euclid Creek Cleanup* 

Sat, Aug 17, 9 a.m. - noon @ Highland Road Picnic Area, Euclid Creek Reservation 

Join a WVP Certified Watershed Steward who has taken initiative to organize Euclid Creek watershed cleanups in partnership with Cuyahoga County Soil & Water Conservation District. Meet at the Quarry Picnic Area to remove trash throughout the area before it flows downstream. Closed toed sturdy shoes are required and long pants and sleeves are highly recommended. Bring a water bottle and snack. We will work on uneven terrain rain or shine. (Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Turtle Tuesday with Tinker's Creek*

Tue, Aug 20, 4 - 6 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Have you ever wondered what types of turtles are native to Ohio? Did you know that some live right in your backyard? Join the “Turtle Talk” to hear presentations by amazing organizations working to study and help protect these species throughout Ohio. Kids crafts and activities will be available, and also a chance to meet one of our turtle friends up close. (Supplemental: Learning) 

Supplemental Event: Behind the Scenes of the Green Infrastructure*

Tue, Aug 20, 6- 7:30 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Learn the details of how the Watershed Stewardship Center earned its name. Tour the building and its grounds while digging deeper into how we protect West Creek's water. End the tour with a visit to the living green roof. Open to adults and youth over 12 years old. (Supplemental: Learning)

Supplemental Event: Lake County Master Rain Gardener Course*

Online Course: August 26 – October 5

This Master Rain Gardener Program will teach you how to install rain gardens on a residential scale. Rain gardens naturally manage stormwater by infiltrating precipitation and allowing it to soak into the ground rather than sending it directly to storm sewers and nearby streams untreated. Experienced instructors will provide customized feedback which will enable you to design and install a rain garden. Topics will include site assessment, soil analysis, design, construction, plant selection, mulching, and maintenance. This online course is open to residents of Lake, Geauga, and Cuyahoga counties. (Supplemental: Learning)

September

Monday MeetUp: What's Up with Euclid Creek*

Mon, Sept 9, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Willoughby Hills-Eastlake School of Innovation, 32500 Chardon Rd, Willoughby Hills, 44094

Join Friends of Euclid Creek for a tour of the stream restoration project on the East Branch of Euclid Creek behind Willoughby Hills-Eastlake School of Innovation. Wear mud appropriate clothing. (Learning) 

Work Session: Chagrin River Macroinvertebrate Monitoring

Wed, Sept 11, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. @ Old River Farm Picnic Area, North Chagrin Reservation

Help measure the water quality of the Chagrin River as part of the Ohio Wild and Scenic Rivers Program. Learn to seine (net) and identify the aquatic macroinvertebrates (insects) living in the river that are indicators of water quality with Cleveland Metroparks Aquatic Research Coordinator, Claire Weldon. This event is weather-dependent. Rain date scheduled for following Wed, Sept 18, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Open to 15 registered WVP volunteers. (Monitoring) 

Independent Project: WVP Outreach Table @ Crooked Chronicles/What's Next for the Cuyahoga River

Tue, Sept 17, 6 - 9 p.m. @ Happy Days Lodge, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Peninsula, OH

Share your watershed knowledge and #NEOWaterSteward experience. We’re looking for a few watershed stewards to lead an outreach display that helps connect people to watersheds and stewardship. This will also be an opportunity to recruit new WVP participants. Event details here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

Supplemental Event: Inaugural Cahoon Creek- Frontal Lake Erie Watershed Meeting & Stream Cleanup*

Tue, Sept 17, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Bay Village Police Department Community Room, 28000 Wolf Rd. Bay Village, OH

Join us for the inaugural Cahoon Creek- Frontal Lake Erie Watershed Meeting and Stream Cleanup. A short presentation highlighting last year’s events and this year’s updates; followed by a Cahoon Creek stream cleanup. Come learn about this watershed and how to get involved in restoration efforts. (Supplemental: Learning)

Independent Project: WVP Outreach Table @ Clean Water Fest

Sat, Sept 21, various shifts @ NEORSD, 4747 East 49th Street, Cuyahoga Heights

Come help the pubic learn about watershed stewardship and efforts that helped the Cuyahoga transform from a once-burning river to a destination worthy of Cleveland's pride. Share your #NEOWaterSteward experience, a WVP outreach display, and opportunity for new WVP participants. There event will also have Sewer District giveaways, tours, activities, and more to celebrate #RiverReborn. Event details here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

Independent Project: WVP Outreach Table @ Ingenuity Fest

Sat, Sept 28 @ Hamilton Collaborative, 5401 Hamilton Ave., Cleveland 

Ingenuity Cleveland ignites the spark of creativity among artists, entrepreneurs and innovators of all types, through joy and collaboration, in service to civic progress in our region. Come share your #NEOWaterSteward experience, a WVP outreach display, and opportunity for new WVP participants. Event details here. (Independent Project: Outreach) 

Supplemental Event: National Public Lands Day Invasive Plant Removal*

Sat, Sept 28, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ Lower Shaker Lake, Brook Road, Shaker Heights

Celebrate and give a hand for public lands with Friends of Lower Lake. Join the crew to remove invasive plants as part of a volunteer project of the Doan Brook Watershed Partnership and The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. (Supplemental: Restoration)

October

Supplemental Event: How Dissolved Oxygen Sensors Work Webinar* 

Tue, Oct 8, 1 - 2 p.m. @ Online

The Cleveland Water Alliance and YSI, a Xylem brand, are proud to offer this five-part educational series on in situ sensing technologies for all students of water quality, from undergraduates to professionals.  

From sustaining aquatic life to the tight control of wastewater treatment, dissolved oxygen (DO) plays a role in nearly every water quality application. In this educational webinar, the following will be discussed: applications where DO measurement is critically important, the evolution of sensor technologies for measuring DO in the field, the underlying principles of how the most current optical DO sensors work, and real-world examples that demonstrate both the value and limitations of field-based measurements of DO. (Supplemental: Learning) | View it here. 

Supplemental Event: Rain Gardening*

Tue, Oct 8, 5 – 7 p.m. @ Community Rain Gardens, Parma 

Rain gardens are beautiful and functional. They help control stormwater runoff and filter pollutants, which is the number one source of pollution in our waterways. Learn more about rain gardens and assist with caring for the community rain gardens within West Creek watershed. Wear closed toe shoes. Tools, gloves, and instructions provided. (Supplemental: Restoration) 

Training: Chemical Water Quality Assessment Training/Level 2 QDC

Wed, Oct 9 - Fri, Oct 11 @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation

Join us for a 2.5 day workshop that gives a detailed look at water sampling, discharge/flow measurement, and developing study plans. Integrated hands-on training exercises will build confidence with field methods while stressing protocol and ensuring accurate data collection. Presented by Energy and the Environment program staff from the Ohio University Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs.

Appropriate for all levels of experience; no previous training required. Participants should bring boots/waders and a lunch. The sessions will be Wed at 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thur at 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Fri at 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. A 100-page guide for each participant is included. Cost is $50. Limited spots available, call (440) 253-2161 or email Tina to register. | (Monitoring)

Work Session: Invasive Plant Removal* 

Thu, Oct 17, noon - 3 p.m. @ Wendy Park, Lakefront Reservation  

Together, we will improve the under story at Wendy Park by removing invasive Buckthorn and allowing for native vegetation to thrive. Come prepared with long pants, sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Instruction and hand tools provided. (Restoration) 

Work Session: Seed Collection* 

Wed, Oct 23, 10 a.m. - noon @ Acacia Reservation

Become a seed collector! Join Natural Resources Area Manager Josh Philipps to collect native seeds for use in future restoration projects throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Species will depend on what is ready to be harvested, but could include: Virginia Wildrye, Partridge Pea, Gray-headed Coneflower, Swamp Milkweed, Indiangrass, and more. All WVP volunteers are welcome to attend; certified watershed stewards will have the opportunity to sign up for a seed collection independent project at various locations. Dress for wet soil and thorny vegetation; wear boots, long pants, and long sleeves. (Restoration)

November

Monday MeetUp: What's Up with Black River*

Mon, Nov 4, 6 - 8 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive Parma, OH

Meet the movers and cleaners of the Black River watershed. LoCo'Yaks will share their work as the Facilitating Organization for the Black River AOC (Area of Concern) Advisory Committee and provider of the local Marine Debris Prevention Educational Programs. Becah (Ford) Troutman, Natural Resource Conservation Technician of Lorain County Metro Parks, will talk about their conservation efforts in the Black River watershed. (Learning) 

Supplemental Event: Principles and Practice in Water Quality Monitoring Webinar Series* 

Anytime before Nov 11 @ Online

The Cleveland Water Alliance and YSI, a Xylem brand, offered a five-part educational series on monitoring technologies for students and professionals of water quality. View these webinars to learn more about the science behind monitoring for the following:  

• Algae- webinar here

• Turbidity- webinar here

• Conductivity- webinar here

• Oxidation Reduction Potential- webinar here

• pH and Oxidative-Reduction Potential- webinar here 

• Dissolved Oxygen- webinar here

(Supplemental: Learning)

Work Session: Invasive Plant Removal - POSTPONED

Wed, Nov 13, noon - 2:30 p.m. @ Management Center, South Chagrin Reservation  

Come join for a tour and invasive plant removal at the forest management area in South Chagrin Reservation where a timber harvest was conducted earlier this year. The goal of the project is to increase plant and habitat diversity and therefore build climate change resilience  in the forest. Learn about forest ecology, habitat succession, and help contribute to the project with the removal of glossy buckthorn. Come prepared with long pants, sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Instruction and hand tools provided. (Restoration)

Work Session: Invasive Plant Removal

Fri, Nov 15, 10 a.m. - noon @ Huntington Beach, Huntington Reservation  

Help remove invasive plant species and feed zoo animals at the same time. To improve habitat for native wildlife we will remove various invasive species with natural resources manager Tim Krynak, including wineberry, privet, Norway maple, and more. Select material will be taken to the zoo as animal browse. Come prepared with long pants, sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Instruction and hand tools provided. (Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Chagrin River Watershed Native Plantings*

Sat, Nov 23, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ River Run Park, 252 Solon Road, Chagrin Falls Village

Chagrin River Watershed Partners, Inc. in partnership with Orange Village and Chagrin Falls Village received funding from the US Forest Service Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grant program to plant native trees with in Chagrin River watershed. No experience is required. Children under 18 must have adult supervision. Please dress for the weather and wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Some water, gloves, and a few shovels will be provided, but please feel free to bring your own. (Supplemental: Restoration) 

Supplemental Event: Invasive Plant Removal*

Sun, Nov 24, 10 a.m. - noon @ Canoe Club at Lower Shaker Lake, South Park Blvd and Leighton Road, Shaker Heights

Give thanks and a hand for native habitat with Friends of Lower Lake. Join the crew to remove invasive plants as part of a volunteer program of the Doan Brook Watershed Partnership. Dress for the weather with long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Come prepared with gloves, reusable water bottle, and your favorite tool for pulling and cutting English ivy. Hand tools also provided. (Supplemental: Restoration)

December

Work Session: Tool Maintenance

Wed, Dec 4, 6 – 7:30 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation 

Come lend a hand with end-of-year tool maintenance to prepare equipment for 2020’s restoration projects. Tasks include sharpening and cleaning pruners and loppers as well as cleaning boots and waders. This is also an opportunity to provide feedback on the year’s activities. Tools, gloves, and instructions provided. (Restoration)