Winged visitors and wildlife enthusiasts, mark your calendars for a day rich with nature's lesser-known stars. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife is hosting the 42nd Ohio Wildlife Diversity Conference on March 11, a gathering for those smitten with Ohio's eclectic species, from the nimble darters to the industrious bees. The Ohio State University's Ohio Union in Columbus will set the stage for this year's theme: "Celebrating Success."
For anyone with a penchant for the natural world, presentations will cover a trove of topics. Dr. Michael Hoggarth of Otterbein University delivers the keynote, bringing to light the hopeful tale titled “On the Cusp of a Comeback: The Status of the Freshwater Mussels of Ohio.” In accordance with a statement obtained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the conference will offer talks ranging from the triumphs of the Allegheny woodrat to the persistence of the diminutive Tippecanoe darter and the systematic revival of the lake sturgeon.
The event, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, is a hub for networking between scientists, students, educators, and anyone fueled by curiosity for Ohio's wild side. It's not just about the critters; even mushrooms get a hat tip with Django Grootmyers, of the University of Tennessee Knoxville, presenting on Ohio's fungal variety.
Attendance doesn't come with just knowledge, but perks too. New this year is the Legacy Partner registration option, complete with a wildlife-themed tote, calendar, and even a stamp depicting a killdeer, which contributes to conservation efforts. All attendees will get their hands on two new field guides—one spotlighting the state's mushrooms and one blooming with native summer wildflowers. While registration can be done at the door, discounted rates are available for those who plan ahead, with students able to join in at a minimal cost.
Let's not forget the registration specifics: doors open at 8 a.m. with the symposium running from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Situated at the Ohio Union, 1739 North High Street in Columbus, attendees should swing by the Ohio Union South Parking Garage, with parking coming in at a flat rate. A box lunch—because exploring biodiversity is hungry work—is on the table for those who register early. More details are waiting on wildohio.gov for the eager.
