It's a natural fit for Beecher to be manager at Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park
The Ashland County Park District continually strives to bring to you, the public, an ever-growing opportunity to experience nature at its best. No matter your level of interest, whether a novice nature enthusiast or an avid trail hiker or hunter, there is a world of wonder to discover at each of our 18 parks.
One park in particular, Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park, continues to evolve through the passion and vision of its manager, Henry Beecher. Henry became involved with this park five years ago when asked by then-commissioner Dave McClure to assist with its development. Henry is from Widowville (born and raised as he states), and currently resides in Vermilion Township. His interests include an association with the Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League, nuisance trapping, deer/turkey hunting, fishing, and nature photography.
Henry is always willing to share his knowledge of nature with anyone who has an interest to learn more. He especially enjoys sharing with young people. Henry’s goal is to make TKWC Park an educational environment. His desire is, “when anyone comes to TKWC Park that when they leave, they know more about nature.”
He is looking forward to the construction and opening of the Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center. Naturalists, ODNR representatives, and various other teachers will teach and interact with groups at the center to educate and enlighten regarding nature. There are five school districts committed to participating in programs at the Education Center. This number is anticipated to grow as more learn about it.
Henry has help mowing with volunteer John Bartley. He credits help with the installation of the wetlands, a myriad of fields showcasing sorghum, sunflowers, corn, buckwheat, prairie grasses, plateau resistant pollinators containing 18 varieties of wildflowers and numerous varieties of trees and shrubs to ACPD maintenance superintendent John Featheringill, the local 4-H group Blue Jeans & Boots, as well as other dedicated and willing volunteers. Every field and meadow has been well thought out to provide sources for wildlife food, bedding, and viewing.
Additionally, hives have been placed to ensure a safe habitat for pollinators. And if you look up, you also will see screech owl and Kestrel boxes mounted on the trees and poles. Along the trails that meander through the park, you will find benches where you can sit and take in the peaceful beauty that surrounds you.
It was such a privilege meeting Henry and sharing his passionate enthusiasm for this park and nature.During my tour, we would stop periodically as he pointed out seed pods important for wildlife consumption and wildflowers such as wild asters that will multiple, crowding out unwanted vegetation. The importance of passing on the love and appreciation for nature was a constant point of conversation.
Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park: The background
It is an 80-acre park, located at the intersection of State Route 60 & County Road 1754 in Montgomery Township, was acquired December 16, 2019 from the Ashland County Commissioners. A State of Ohio Clean Ohio Grant funded the transfer. The park was named after a current ACPD commissioner and former teacher, Tom Kruse. Tom has played a major role building the park district system since it was established in 2002.
The park features a handicap accessible covered fishing pier and a gazebo immediately off the paved parking area. Some are satisfied to enjoy these two amenities alone, both of which provide a space to relax and reflect. These structures overlook the pond inhabited by gaggles of geese and ducks. Here you get your first look at different types of duck houses mounted within the pond area.
Photography, Cider Days, bird walks
The monthly photography contest runs through Dec. 15. Submit photos of the park each month and you may win a prize. Details can be found on the park website.
Cider Days at Sauers Farm Park, Saturday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Come watch an antique cider press in operation. There are 35+ craft vendors attending for you to begin your Christmas shopping, a variety of food vendors, so you don’t go hungry, and antique tractors on display. Free admission and parking. This park is located at 260 Township Road 1601, Greenwich. The event is held rain or shine.
Monthly bird walk at Byers Woods: Fourth Saturday of each month 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Tim Leslie, park manager, will be available to answer questions. The park is located at 675 County Road 1754, Ashland.
Information regarding these and other events can be found by visiting our website at www.ashlandcountyparks.com. Questions can be sent to our email at parks@ashlandcounty.org.
We look forward to seeing you.
This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: Managing Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park is natural fit for Beecher
