The Pathfinder Newsletter – June 2026

Reminder: New Park Hours Begin July 6th!

photo of a sunset skyStarting July 6th, all Greene County Parks & Trails parks will be open sunrise to sunset daily. This change does NOT apply to bike trails. Overnight public access will no longer be permitted, except for approved programs, events, and reserved campsites.

Planning an after-hours activity such as glow disc golf, night hiking, or another organized recreation event? Free after-hours permits are available by contacting our office in advance.

Camping reservations will continue as normal, and campers will still have overnight access during their stay.

For questions or to request an after-hours permit, please call our office at 937-562-6440.

A Welcome Sighting at Creekside Reserve

photo of northern bobwhite bird on a log

Thanks to a park visitor, a Northern Bobwhite was recently spotted enjoying an afternoon walk at Creekside Reserve. Once a common sight across Ohio, Northern Bobwhite populations have declined significantly over the past several decades due to habitat loss and changes in land use. 

The return of this iconic grassland bird highlights the importance of restoring native habitats. Bobwhites depend on a mix of native grasses, wildflowers, and brushy cover for nesting, shelter, and food. Habitat restoration projects that create these conditions not only benefit quail but also support a wide variety of pollinators, songbirds, and other wildlife.

Beyond their ecological value, quail can also help reduce tick populations. As ground-foraging birds, they consume a variety of insects, including ticks and other pests, making them a natural part of a healthy ecosystem.

Known for their distinctive “bob-WHITE!” call, Northern Bobwhites are an important indicator of thriving grassland habitats. Sightings like this one remind us that habitat conservation efforts can make a meaningful difference for native wildlife and the health of our natural areas.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Re-Swap

September 12 • 10am – 3pm • Hobson Freedom Park

New Park Hours starting July 6thIn a world where it is often easier to buy something new than repair, reuse, or share, consumerism has contributed to growing amounts of waste and unnecessary resource consumption. Many items that still have value end up in landfills simply because they are no longer wanted.

The Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Re-Swap event offers a different approach. By exchanging gently used clothing, household goods, garden abundance, and other reusable items, community members can give useful items a second life while reducing waste and saving money.

Visitors can also attend educational sessions on gardening, home food preservation, recycling basics, and recycled art. The event is designed to inspire practical ways to live more sustainably while connecting with others who share an interest in reducing waste and making the most of available resources.

Bring a canned good donation for the food bank and enjoy a free hot dog, chips, and drink while supplies last. Registration is required for vendor booths, but shoppers are welcome to attend at no cost. See more information about the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Re-Swap program.

Join us in taking a small step toward a more sustainable future, one item at a time!

Upcoming Events

Greene County Bike Tour for Veteran Suicide Prevention

July 11 • Fairgrounds Recreation Center
This one day ride will showcase the extensive trail system in Greene County with all proceeds benefiting the Greene County Suicide Prevention Veteran Subcommittee. Learn more about the bike tour.

Backyard Cruise-In & Swap Meet

July 25 • Caesar Ford Park
Rev up for a summer evening of classic cars, great music, and community fun! Join us at Caesar Ford Park for a free Cruise-In featuring vintage rides, food, and good vibes. Bring your vehicle or just come enjoy the show, plus participants have a chance to win door prizes! See more information about the cruise-in and swap meet

VIP Dance

July 25 • Russ Nature Reserve
This isn’t just a father/daughter dance, it’s not just a mother/son dance either. We are bringing to you a VIP DANCE! Read more about the dance and register to attend.

Contact Greene County Parks & Trails

Contact Richard Kharman

Contact Michelle Jenkins

Contact Amy Salser

Contact Wade Beam

Contact Darrell Hannah

Contact Chuck Frazier

Contact Rick Inman

Contact Ashlee Schmitt

Contact Robin Gregory

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