MANSFIELD — The Gorman Nature Center is home to 150 acres of forests, prairies, ponds and streams with five miles of conveniently located public trails to Richland County.
Part of the Richland County Park District, it’s now also home to a newly dedicated flagpole.
With a ceremony on Sunday, during Flag Day, it’s the first time the American flag has been raised over Richland County Park District grounds.
“This flag dedication is in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, and all American conservationists, whose legacy we proudly carry on,” the RCPD said.
“As we celebrate our country, we also recognize those who have worked to protect and preserve our forests, prairies, waterways, and wildlife for future generations. Their hard work and dedication have shaped the natural spaces we enjoy today and continue to inspire our mission,” the park district said.
Rusty Cates was the event emcee. Richland County Commissioner Cliff Mears spoke at the event as did RCPD Executive Director Jordan Tackett.
The Gorman Nature Center’s staff of naturalists sponsors weekly programs for the public featuring a variety of hikes, field trips and natural history programs.
Gorman Nature Center, 2295 Lexington Ave., is open year-round, making it the perfect place for summer and winter hikes alike, as well as cross country skiing.
(Below are photos from a flagpole dedication ceremony Sunday at Gorman Nature Center, 2295 Lexington Ave., in Mansfield. All photos courtesy of Jeff Hoffer.)
