2026–2027 Work Trip Schedule

A Columbus Audubon Volunteer Program

Clifton Gorge

September 19, 2026, 9 am – 3 pm

Woody invasive vegetation removal

Clifton Gorge is home to the most notable scenic gorge in western Ohio. The Little Miami River rushes down the narrow gorge squeezed by massive dolomite cliffs. The preserve is connected to John Bryan State Park with an extensive trail network, picturesque landscape, and scenic views of the river.

We will continue the removal of invasive woody vegetation between the Rim and Orton Trails. Every honeysuckle and privet we remove gives native wildflowers and young trees a better chance to thrive. It’s a satisfying way to make a visible difference in a beautiful preserve while spending a day outdoors with fellow volunteers.

No prior experience is needed. Tools will be provided. You will need to bring your lunch, water, and work gloves and dress for the weather. Contact us to sign up. Further information will be sent to the registered volunteers.

Christmas Rocks

October 10, 2026, 9 am – 3 pm

Building a new trail

Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve protects a dramatic Black Hand Sandstone formation that towers over the valley of Arney Run, with the scenic overlook at Jacob’s Ladder as its centerpiece.

Last November our group helped build a new trail section heading to Jacob’s Ladder and the overlook. This year we will be working on cutting down a new trail. There’s something special about walking a trail you helped create. Join us for a day in the woods, get some hands-on trail-building experience, and leave knowing that hikers will enjoy your work for years to come.

No prior trail building experience is needed. We’ll provide tools and instructions. You will need to bring your lunch, water, and work gloves and dress for the weather. Contact us to sign up. Further information will be sent to the registered volunteers.

Gallagher Fen

December 5, 2026, 9 am – 3 pm

Woody vegetation management

John F. Gallagher Fen State Nature Preserve contains one of the best examples of a prairie fen community in Ohio, with at least 26 state-listed species reported here. Above the fen meadows, an oak savanna supports a variety of dry prairie species.

We will work on improving habitat for the developing savanna near the east fen by removing woody vegetation. Few places in Ohio support as much rare biodiversity as this fen. Help us restore the savanna by opening the canopy and giving its native plants the sunlight they need to thrive. It’s a great opportunity to work in one of Ohio’s most unique natural areas.

Prairie Road Fen

January 9, 2027 (rain/snow date: January 30, 2027), 9 am – 3 pm

Woody vegetation removal

Prairie Road Fen is the largest and finest remaining prairie fen in Ohio, sustained by mineral-rich groundwater seeping up through ancient glacial deposits. This rare wetland community provides critical habitat for the eastern massasauga, one of Ohio’s rarest snakes, along with numerous other state-listed plants and animals.

For many years our group has been helping to keep the habitat open, which is critical for massasauga’s wellbeing. We will continue this eco-management effort by cutting woody vegetation and burning brush piles. Join us for one of our most popular winter workdays. You’ll help maintain critical habitat for the eastern massasauga, one of Ohio’s rarest reptiles, while enjoying good company and a warming brush-pile fire. And don’t worry, massasaugas spend the winter underground, so you won’t be encountering any snakes in January.

Gross Woods

March 13, 2027, 9 am – 3 pm

Boardwalk renovation

Gross Memorial Woods is one of the least disturbed old-growth forests in west-central Ohio, with over 100-year-old oaks, hickories, walnuts, beeches, and maples. A half-mile boardwalk loop, one of the earliest in Ohio’s state nature preserve system, carries visitors through the forest.

Last year we started work on renovating the historic boardwalk. We will continue the project by replacing boards and installing hardware cloth on the boardwalk. Join us in preserving this historic boardwalk and helping future hikers, birders, and nature lovers experience one of Ohio’s finest old-growth forests. If you enjoy practical projects and seeing immediate results, this trip is for you.

No prior experience is needed. We’ll provide tools, instruction, and plenty of opportunities to learn. You will need to bring your lunch, water, and work gloves and dress for the weather. Contact us to sign up. Further information will be sent to the registered volunteers.

Gallagher Fen

April 17, 2027, 9 am – 3 pm

Demolition of the old staircase

John F. Gallagher Fen State Nature Preserve contains one of the best examples of a prairie fen community in Ohio, supporting many rare species. A wooded ridge overlooks the fen, with a set of stairs leading down to the boardwalk that winds through this unique wetland habitat.

Join us for a construction project at Gallagher Fen. We will need to disassemble the old staircase and install new box steps in its place. If you enjoy hands-on building projects, this trip is for you. By the end of the day, you’ll be able to point to a brand-new staircase and know you helped improve access to one of Ohio’s finest prairie fens.