5-04-2026 9:17pm

ODNR to host Earth Science Summer

Beth Callahan Editor

group of people standing in a creek bed, listening to a geologist educate on the rocky, layered cliff face behind him.

Story and photo courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Geological Survey invites Ohioans to participate in Earth Science Summer, with events held from June through September 2026. A series of special programs will be offered throughout Ohio and will coincide with the celebration of America 250 and the Collaborative Summer Library Program’s 2026 theme: “Unearth a Story.”

“Earth Science Summer is an incredible opportunity for Ohioans to learn more about Ohio’s rich geologic heritage and how it connects with our daily lives,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Learning about Ohio’s past provides knowledge and context to help shape Ohio’s future.”

Participants in Earth Science Summer events will receive a limited-edition decal (while supplies last) as a keepsake to commemorate their adventure.

“We are thrilled to offer unique opportunities to share Ohio’s geology with generations of learners this summer,” said D. Mark Jones, ODNR Division of Geological Survey chief and state geologist of Ohio. “The ODNR Division of Geological Survey takes pride in sharing knowledge about our state’s geology with the public, including future geologists and conservationists.”

ODNR geologists will lead a variety of events throughout the summer. The events include:

Wednesday, June 10
- Geology Hike, Oakes Quarry Park, Fairborn (in collaboration with City of Fairborn parks)
Saturday, June 13
- Ohio Geology Discovery Day, H. R. Collins Laboratory & Core Repository, Delaware
Thursday, June 25
- Statehouse Fossil Fest, Ohio Statehouse, Columbus (in collaboration with Ohio Statehouse Museum and Orton Geological Museum)
Saturday, June 27
- Geology Hike, Lake Hope State Park, New Plymouth (in collaboration with the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft)
Thursday, July 9
- Geology and Nature Hike, Rocky River Reservation, North Olmstead (in collaboration with Cleveland MetroParks)
Saturday, August 15
- Science Saturday, Kelleys Island State Park, Kelleys Island (in collaboration with the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft and the Kelleys Island School Field Station)
Wednesday, August 19
- Guided Fossil Collecting, Fossil Park, Sylvania (in collaboration with Outdoor Sylvania Community Parks)
Saturday, September 12
- Open House, Flint Ridge State Memorial, Heath (in collaboration with Ohio History Connection)

Complete program information for all Earth Science Summer programs, as well as geology summer reading lists handpicked by geologists from the ODNR Division of Geological Survey are available at ohiodnr.gov/earthsciencesummer. There are reading lists curated for kids, teens, and adults.

Ohio’s cities and rural areas offer many activities Ohioans can also enjoy on their own. Educators, students, and the public are encouraged to explore Ohio's natural history at sites throughout the state. Resources for those outings include Ohio GeoTour and geologic hiking guides available from the ODNR Division of Geological Survey.