ASHLAND — Forget ghosts, goblins and things that go bump in the night.
This October, Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is inviting families to discover the real magic hiding in the woods during its newest Conservation Chat: The Not-So-Spooky Forest.
From Oct. 1 through 31, families can take part in a fall forest scavenger hunt at Hazel Willis Woods, turning an ordinary autumn walk into an outdoor adventure. The best part?
There’s no need to squeeze everyone into the same Saturday afternoon. Once registered, participants will receive a printable scavenger hunt list by email and can head to Hazel Willis Woods whenever it works for their family during the month of October.
Along the way, young explorers will be challenged to search for seasonal sights, sounds and natural treasures hiding throughout the forest. It’s a chance to slow down, get outside, crunch through some leaves and see the woods through a different set of eyes.
“Fall is a fantastic time to explore the forest,” said Jane Houin, Ashland SWCD Director. “There’s so much happening in the woods that you might miss if you’re only looking for the big things.
“Our scavenger hunt encourages kids and families to take a closer look at the trees, plants, wildlife and little details that make a healthy forest such a special place.”
And because every good scavenger hunt deserves a little friendly competition, participants can submit photos of their finds for a chance to win a fall fun prize pack — including something that will keep the conservation adventure growing: a tree seedling to be picked up during Ashland SWCD’s 2027 Tree Sale.
The Not-So-Spooky Forest is designed to be fun, flexible and family-friendly. Whether your crew includes budding naturalists, enthusiastic leaf collectors or kids who simply need an excuse to get off the couch, there’s something to discover.
Tickets are $5 per child or $10 per family. Registration is available at
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/conservation-chat-not-so-spooky-forest-tickets-
1981367816476?aff=oddtdtcreator. Once registered, participants will receive the scavenger hunt materials by email.
So grab your walking shoes, your favorite little forest explorers and maybe a camera. The woods are waiting — and they’re not nearly as spooky as you might think!
For more information about Ashland SWCD programs and upcoming Conservation Chats, visit Ashland SWCD or follow Ashland SWCD on social media.
Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District works with landowners, farmers, businesses and community partners to protect and improve Ashland County’s soil, water and natural resources through education, technical assistance and conservation leadership.
