Hiram – Hiram College’s James H. Barrow Biological Field Station is a living, learning, and research lab, but it’s more that just a resource for college students. When the buildings are open, visitors have the opportunity to view wildlife including snakes, turtles, and frogs — all of which are cared for by college students and staff. During the spring and summer months, kids have the opportunity to attend especially themed nature camps for hands-on learning. And throughout the year, visitors are free to hike the roughly five miles of trails that encompass the nearly 500-acre college-owned property.
This ecologically diverse natural classroom also hosts inspirational programs that focus on conservation, environmental stewardship, and scientific discovery. Next Monday at 8:30 pm, you can join in for a viewing of the documentary ‘Mission Blue’, part of Hiram College’s Documentary and Discussion series focused on sustainability. The film captures world-renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle as she explores the extent of overfishing and toxic waste in our oceans.
On Saturday, February 16th from 10:30 am until noon, join Animal Care Steward Rebecca Moore to meet some of the fascinating animals at the Field Station and learn about their native habitats and adaptations. Participants in this free event will experience up close and personal encounters with some of the animal residents, along with a behind the scenes tour of the inner workings of the Field Station. Adults and children of all ages are welcome to attend.
On Thursday, February 21st at 7 pm, Professor Doug Fowler will share details about the events surrounding the Apollo 8 mission in 1968 and whether or not it is realistic for humans to live in space. Dr. Fowler will also have sections of meteorites on display. Professor Fowler is a retired faculty member from the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley; he currently teaches at Youngstown State University and serves as an adjunct curator and adviser to the Weis Earth Science Museum at UW-Fox Valley.
On Friday, February 22nd from 6 -9 pm, put on your jammies, bring your blankets and pillows, and get ready for movie night. This month’s featured flick is “A Bug’s Life” (rated G). That evening, kids will get to experience the Field Station’s exhibits, then settle in for a movie and insect-themed craft. Popcorn and other movie-type snacks will be provided. Parents can drop their children off at 6 pm and return at 9 pm — please note that identification will be required at pick-up time. Registration for this event closes on Feb. 18 and will be limited to 15 participants ages 4-10. To register contact Jenn Clark at clarkjm@hiram.edu or (330)569-5315.
The next day, February 23rd from 1 – 2 pm, visitors are invited to take a hike for a closer look at plants and trees in the winter months with Field Station Steward Emliss Ricks. He will serve as a guide on this winter interpretation hike along the Field Station’s trails, so dress for the weather. On the guided hike, you’ll explore familiar plants, trees and shrubs in an unfamiliar setting (the middle of winter). On Sunday, February 24th from 2 – 4 pm, join Field Station Steward Jim Tolan to build a Peterson-style bluebird nest box to take home. These cedar nest boxes make a great place to raise a family of eastern bluebirds in your yard. Registration for this event closes on Feb. 20th; cost of the program is $35, which is due by Feb 20th.
The Field Station is located at 11305 Wheeler Road in Garrettsville; parking is available next to the main building. For more information, visit the James H. Barrow Biological Field Station’s page on Facebook.
In the case of extreme weather, events may have to be cancelled. Please visit our Facebook page and Field Station website for announcements. Please note that registered participants in an event will receive a phone call or email in the event that a program is cancelled.
