GREENVILLE — On Friday, Oct. 2, the Darke County Park District will host the Autumn Eco-Tour.

Participants will travel to Siebenthaler Fen, part of the Beaver Creek Wetlands, east of Dayton. The Beaver Creek Wetlands Association has protected more than 1,800 acres of pristine wetland ecosystems since 1988. Wetlands purify water, prevent flooding, and provide habitat for wildlife and recreation. Ohio has lost 90 percent of its wetlands.

Siebenthaler Fen is known as the “crown jewel” of the preserve, and if there’s time, participants will explore other aspects of this pristine strip of parks.

The Park District asks that those planning to attend bring binoculars, a camera, a sack lunch, and to dress for walking and in bright colors if possible as there may be some hunting occurring near the walking trail. This program does require preregistration and has a $10 fee.

Departure will be at 7 a.m. Friday, Oct. 2, from Shawnee Prairie Preserve at 4267 State Route 502, west of Greenville.

For more information about Beaver Creek Wetlands, check out their website at www.beavercreekwetlands.org. For more information about the Eco-Tour, to preregister, or to find out more about other programs offer by the Darke County Park District, call the Nature Center at 937-548-0165.