By Jasmine Hsu
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation has launched an interactive program to educate the public on the natural history of Carmel’s parks. Called “My Park.,” the program runs annually from May through September and is targeted toward participants 16 and older.
Parks featured this year are Flowing Well Park, Central Park East Woods, Central Park West Lagoon and West Park. Interested individuals can show up at the specified location and time. Advance registration isn’t required. The schedule for upcoming events is:
- Central Park East Woods Picnic Shelters: 6 to 7 p.m. July 26; 1235 Central Park Dr. East; left at the first roundabout.
- Central Park Water Features: 6 to 7 p.m. Aug. 16; 1235 Central Park Dr. East; meet just off the Monon Greenway, under the Monon Community Center Oasis/Skywalk
- West Park Prairie: 6 to 7 p.m. Sept. 27; 2700 W. 116th Street
“We’re going to be talking about natural history, stories and plant identification. Anytime you dig into natural history and get your hands dirty, it leaves a lasting impression of the importance of our environment,” said Brittany McAdams, CCPR natural resources coordinator and My Park tour guide.
CCPR Marketing Director Lindsay Labas said attendees gave positive feedback after the first event, and she expects the remaining programs to be informative as well.
“I love Flowing Well Park. You can see here a lot of people coming to have a blast in the creek,” Labas said. “Central Park East Woods is another one of my favorites, just because it’s so quiet. When you’re in there, you don’t even feel like you’re in Carmel.”
Anyone interested in volunteer opportunities can contact McAdams at bmcadams@carmelclayparks.com.
