A nature and candy hike, obstacle course and hayrides are to be featured at the fifth annual Harvest Fest 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at Miller Conservation Farm.
The free event, hosted by Seneca Soil & Water Conservation District, provides an afternoon of family fun in the farm's fall setting. It takes place rain or shine.
"We typically average about 600 people," said Tia Rice, SWCD program administrator. "We have, of course, the learning hike through the woods. Throughout that hike there's going to be spots along the trail for them stop and learn about natural resources."
At each station, family members answer questions and participate in a nature-based activity. At the end, people who answered all questions correctly can choose 10 pieces of candy. The hiking trail is stroller accessible, though not paved. It winds through different types of woodlands, near ponds, over streams and into crop fields and ends at the back of the farm.
"Of course, we have the hayride from the back of the farm up to the front," Rice said. Tractors and wagons are provided by Seneca County Antique Tractor Association.
In addition to the hike, families can challenge an obstacle course, shoot an arrow from a bow, make a craft with Master Gardeners and get a wildlife temporary tattoo.
Participants can try their luck at the quarter wheel by laying down a quarter and spinning a wheel to win a prize. Proceeds go toward construction of a future educational building at the farm.
Food will be available for purchase from a Thompson Ruritan booth.
In the maintenance building, visitors can view educational displays including a safety program by North Central Electric Cooperative.
The new maintenance building will be on display. Money for the building was raised from Tiffin Charitable Foundation's White Fund, along with many private donations.
In addition, the farm boasts a recently paved parking lot funded by a NatureWorks grant and a donation by M&B Asphalt, Rice said, and a walkway that meets the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act was paved with funds from a Community Development Block Grant.
Miller Farm is at 5670 E. TR 138. The event is sponsored by SWCD with the help of many businesses and conservation partners.
For directions or more information, call (419) 447-7073 or visit www.senecaswcd.com.
