Environmental Learning Center Named for Former Park District Director Gary R. Merkamp

Article presented by Rathkamp Financial …

The Ross County Park District will celebrate a special milestone on Friday, May 15th.

The District will open the doors to The Gary R. Merkamp Environmental Learning Center AKA: The Den, nestled in the heart of Buzzard’s Roost Nature Preserve from 12pm-2pm.

In a release from Director Myranda Vance, The Den is named after Merkamp, the first Director of the Park District. The release says The Den will give the community a fun, safe place to discover, play and learn ways to protect nature.

Friday’s event is open to the public to check out the space, enjoy some fun interactive elements, or just hang out on the deck and relax in nature at Buzzard’s Roost. The Den is suitable for all ages.

The Den is located at the top of the hill right next to the shelter house and can be accessed by walking up the maintenance road, taking a short leg of the Lookout Trail, or a favorite of the Park District, hiking up the KNZ Trail- all just under a half mile.

KNZ merch raffle, light snacks, and yard games will be provided as the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon cutting .

The Park District notes handicap parking is only available at the top of the hill. Special accommodations are required by calling 740-773-8794.

*There is also a planned live stream Friday through the Ross County Park District Facebook page.