The Rieck Center features a pond, hiking trails and birdwatching area.
On Saturday, May 23, from 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m., area residents can enjoy the beauty of nature, learn about wetland restoration and eat cookies, all compliments of the Rieck Center. The Center, 17311 T.R. 166, Arlington, is a 55-acre nature preserve owned by The University of Findlay and governed by a volunteer board of directors.
At 1:00 p.m., Ben Dolan, Ph.D, associate professor of biology, will give a brief presentation on an Ohio EPA-funded wetlands restoration project. Water is being diverted from an existing ditch to a half-acre where agricultural and storm water runoff will be naturally filtered and treated. A six-acre flood plain with shallow wetlands is also being enhanced to improve water retention during minor floods.
Dolan is also seeking volunteers for three-hour shifts on May 23 to plant vegetation around the pond. Planting will begin at 7 a.m. and continue until 5 p.m.
The Open House is free of charge, but annual Rieck Center memberships are also available to community residents. Memberships for individuals are $15 and $20 for families. Membership includes total access to the Center, including the main building with kitchen, restrooms and bird-watching area. Outdoor activities available are hiking and cross-country skiing on cleared trails, a pond, fire pit and seating area. For more information, including driving directions and volunteer sign up, visit the Friends of the Rieck Center website.
