Thursday, October 15, 2026
Pennsylvania Firefly Festival

There is nothing quite like a summer night lit up by lightning bugs. To ensure future generations get to enjoy that same magic, Pennsylvania is embarking on its first-ever statewide firefly inventory. Discover how this inventory will shape future conservation policies for PA's state insect and support local "firefly tourism."

From the flooded Midwest to the battlefields of Normandy, hedgerows play a vital role. Portage SWCD's Lynn Vogel explains how these "edgy" conservation practices reduce runoff and support pollinators. Learn why choosing native species is key to protecting Ohio’s soil, water and wildlife habitat.
Pittsburgher Highland Farm

Cows need shade, too. That's one of the reasons why farmer Mark Harvey Smith decided to implement agroforestry practices on his 142-acre Pittsburgher Highland Farm in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania. With the help of Pasa Sustainable Agriculture and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Smith recently had 300 to 400 trees and shrubs planted on his farm for silvopasture and a riparian buffer.

Learn how to balance your pasture pond by managing livestock access, reducing nutrient runoff, and improving water quality for healthier cattle and fish.

The 2026 OACI survey reveals major progress in the Auglaize River watershed. With 97% of fields soil-tested and 65% using no-till practices, Ohio farmers are leveraging H2Ohio and cost-sharing programs to improve water quality and soil health across this vital agricultural region.
bumble bee

The Ohio Bee Survey has identified over 330 bee species statewide, helping researchers and volunteers better protect Ohio’s pollinators and biodiversity.