Early Spring Migration Field Trip

Theme: Early Spring Migration (especially waterfowl)

Location: East Fork State Park (Harsha Lake)

Date: Saturday, February 28th, 2026

Meet: 8:00 A.M. at the East Fork State Parks South Swimming Beach parking lot, nearest the Pavilion (see the directions below).

Leader: Dave Helm, (513) 403-4519, helmmd@icloud.com

The focus of this trip will be waterfowl, gulls and other water birds. Many waterfowl winter in our region and the second half of February marks the beginning of spring waterfowl migration so we should find plenty of ducks of several different species at East Fork. Our trip leader, Dave Helm, knows East Fork SP as well as anyone. He is also a long-time expert birder and skilled naturalist. Dave is a long time ASO advocate and is a current member of our ASO board.

Since our focus will be on waterfowl and water birds, Dave’s plan is to drive around the lake from one vantage point to another, stopping and scanning for waterfowl and other birds at each spot.  A diverse number of other species are also expected on this trip and you can be sure that Dave won’t miss much. Winter residents will still be around as well as a few early migrants. There is a decent chance to find Red-headed Woodpeckers and raptors of several different species are also expected, including Bald Eagles which now nest within the park. And there is always a chance for a rarity, as East Fork has an excellent reputation in that regard, particularly during migratory months.

While most of the trip will consist of scanning the lake for water birds from various vantage points, we can expect some light walking here and there. Any walking we do will be moderate and at a leisurely pace over mostly level trails and roadsides. Spotting scopes will be useful for scanning the lake so bring them if you have one. This trip will break up by noon. Restrooms are available in the park. It is February, so expect the weather to be cold and possibly wet so dress accordingly. Severe weather will cancel this trip. If you are unsure, or have any other questions concerning this field trip, feel free to contact Dave

Directions: We will meet at the Park’s south swimming beach parking lot, nearest to the Pavilion. To get to the East Fork SP south entrance from I-275, take exit #65, SR 125 (Beechmont Ave./Ohio Pike) and go east about 9 miles to the junction of Rt. 222. Turn left onto Old State Rte. 125 (opposite Rt. 222) and follow the signs to the Park entrance. Follow the Park Road (and signs) to the East Fork SP Swimming Beach. Meet in the Parking Lot nearest the Pavilion.

Visit the East Fork State Park website for a park map and other info at:

https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/east-fork-state-park

(Contributed by Jay Stenger)