News Desk

Copies of our Media Releases

Added August 30, 2010

What: September is Festival Month at the Falls!

When: September 4 - Archaeology Day, 11th - Rock the Rocks

and the 18th & 19th - Falls Fossil Festival

Where: Falls of the Ohio State Park

Sept. 4: The Falls of the Ohio Archaeology Society (FOAS) sponsors this event. Enjoy educational displays, hands-on activities for the kids including mock digs, atlatl throwing, making a clay pot, design a personal ornament to ear home, play Native American games, and more! Archaeologists are available to date your artifacts and explain how ancient people used them. Learn how to become involved in local archaeology projects.

Sept. 11: The Falls of the Ohio Foundation announces it’s sixth annual “Rock the Rocks” fundraising event at the Falls of the Ohio State Park Interpretive Center in Clarksville, Indiana. Proceeds will benefit the foundation’s Crossroads Campaign for new exhibits and mission of educational program development at the Falls.

Enjoy live music by Jamey Aebersold Jazz and a surprise band, food, libations, bourbon tasting by Jim Beam Brands Compa...ny, and handcrafted beers by New Albanian Brewing Company. Other activities include a silent auction, raffle, fossil bed hike, and viewing of the center's film. Patrons will get an advanced look at the plans for new exhibits at the Interpretive Center. Dress for the event is casual, and tickets are $75 in advance and $100 day of the event. A reserved table for eight is $600.

Sponsors include American Water, Duke Energy, The Estopinal Group, Horseshoe Foundation, Mac Construction & Excavating, Sheraton Louisville Riverside Hotel, and Your Community Bank.

Sept. 18 & 19: Falls Fossil Festival is our largest event with vendors and food, children’s activities, fossil and mineral dig, fascinating speakers, free resources, door prizes, special fossil bed hikes, and more! Free rock, mineral and fossil identification so bring in your unknowns!
Outer fossil bed hike at 9:30 a.m.
Sponsored by the Falls of the Ohio Foundation with additional support from the Kyana Geological Society, Kentucky Paleontological Society and Indiana S...ociety for Paleontology.
See this web page for details: http://www.fallsoftheohio. org/FallsFossilFestivalProgram.html

What: Explore the Falls of the Ohio by Foot

When: August 21

Where: Falls of the Ohio State Park

Join Naturalist-at-Heart Paul Olliges at 9:30 on the deck of the Interpretive Center.

He leads a strenuous, three hour outer fossil bed hike, often in ankle deep water, which is restricted to folks age 12 and over. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty to drink and sun protection. Call on Friday (812) 280-9970, to make sure the river level is safe for hiking.

More hikes: September 11, 17, 18 & 29, October 2 & 9

News reporter contact: Bett Etenohan, Falls of the Ohio State Park,

812-280-8689 ext. 405 or betenohan@dnr.in.gov

What: Falls of the Ohio Programs on the River

When: August 28, September 25, and October 16

Where: Falls of the Ohio State Park

Canoe or kayak with Naturalist Bett Etenohan in the unique Falls of the Ohio National

Wildlife Conservation Area. Meet at the Interpretive Center at 9:00 a.m. and caravan  to

the river together, or meet at the boat ramp on Harrison Avenue, in Clarksville, by 9:30 a.m.

We will paddle into the Conservation Area, hike a bit on the outer fossil beds and plan to

return around noon. Call on Friday (812) 280-9970, to make sure the river level is safe

for boating. Bring your own canoe or kayak and PFD (life jacket), water to drink, and

sun protection. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

If you don’t have a boat of your own, you can rent a canoe or kayak through Canoe

Kentucky. Call 888-CanoeKy to make your reservation. 

News reporter contact: Bett Etenohan, Falls of the Ohio State Park,

812-280-8689 ext. 405 or betenohan@dnr.in.gov

What: Family Fun Fair

When: Saturday, August 7 from 10:00 to 4:00

Where: Falls of the Ohio State Park Interpretive Center

201 West Riverside Drive, Clarksville, Indiana

A “Cool” indoor event with a sample of each of the Falls annual events!

Fossil Festival – find and take home your very own 425 million year old fossi from a collection     

            donated by Hanson Aggregates.

The Lewis & Clark Festival – meet Seaman the Dog and get his autograph (pawtograph)!

Earth Day – Driftwood Art, recycle natural objects into a “Nature Critter”

George Rogers Clark Home Site– meet our re-enactors of the early 1800’s and make a

        “Three Sisters” bracelet with corn, beans and squash seeds

Archaeology Day – practice with ancient games and tools and solve a puzzle

Raptor Day – watch wild birds through the telescope and take apart owl pellets

Kids Corner – storytelling at 11:00, 1:00 & 3:00, fossil rubbings all day

Ohio River Sweep – pick up litter and receive a gift (the only outdoor activity)

Fishing Fun Day – make a colorful fish print

Plus the spectacular “400 Million Years at the Falls” movie throughout the day

All programs at the Interpretive Center are free with building admission.

For more information call (812) 280-9970. The Center is open 9 a.m. to

5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission to the Interpretive Center is $5 for adults & $2 for children.

There is a $2 parking fee which is waived for those visiting the Interpretive Center.

News reporter contact: Bett Etenohan, Falls of the Ohio State Park, 812-280-8689

From Fossils to the Stars:

Explore the Heavens at the Falls of the Ohio

WHAT:              View the Sun, Moon, Saturn, Venus and more through a telescope

WHEN:             July 17 from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm, if the sky is not overcast

WHERE:          Falls of the Ohio Interpretive Center and adjacent Ohio River Greenway

The Louisville Astronomical Society’s Sidewalk Astronomers will set up in front of

the Interpretive Center until dusk and then move their telescopes onto the Ohio River Greenway’s Levee Top Trail for better views of the sky. See different types of telescopes

and talk to amateur astronomers to learn how they work. Visitors will enjoy safe filtered

views of the Sun to look for sunspots and see the craters on the Moon, the rings of Saturn

and the current phase of Venus.

This event will be cancelled if the sky is overcast.

The program is sponsored by the Ohio River Greenway Commission, the Falls of the Ohio

State Park and the Louisville Astronomical Society.

For more information, contact Alan Goldstein: 812-280-9970 or agoldstein@dnr.in.gov.

What: Clark County’s Ohio River Sweep

When: 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday June 19

Where: Falls of the Ohio State Park, Ashland Park, Charlestown State Park, and Duffy's Landing

Great news for River Sweep this year: Clarksville and Jeffersonville are joining the effort

to clean up the riverbank! Tom Clevidence of the Clarksville Storm Water Department

will use his resources to help out at the Falls of the Ohio, while Deb Ashack of

Jeffersonville’s Storm Water Department and Bryan Wallace of Oak Park will be setting

up a new site at Duffy’s Landing. Both sites will have tee shirts, bags, gloves, and water

ready for the volunteers that come to clean up the river bank.

Volunteers may also participate at the George Rogers Clark Home Site, Ashland Park

and Charlestown State Park. Come as an individual, as part of a team, or with your family.

Only groups with minors need to get parental permission forms signed in advance. Forms

may be picked up at the Falls Interpretive Center or can be faxed to you by calling 280-8689.

Registration tables will be open at 9 a.m. at Ashland Park, the Falls of the Ohio,

Charlestown State Park and Duffy’s Landing.  Those who want to work at the Clark Site

should go to the Falls of the Ohio first. Pick up your trash bags and FREE tee shirt, then

it’s off to your chosen area to fill those bags and make a difference for the environment

and the community. Anyone with a River Sweep tee shirt gets free admission to the

Interpretive Center at the Falls of the Ohio State Park all day!

News reporter contact: Bett Etenohan, Falls of the Ohio State Park, 812-280-8689

 For immediate release: May 24, 2010

What:       Fishing Fun at the Falls of the Ohio

When:            Saturday, June 5

Where:          The Falls of the Ohio State Park

201 West Riverside Drive, Clarksville

Free outdoor activities, open to all ages:

1:00 - Fly Fishing Fundamentals, casting demo and practice

2:00 - Casting contest, with rods & reels as prizes!

2:00 to 3:00 – Fly Tying Demonstration

1:00 to 3:00 – Fish Art Prints

Indiana’s Free Fishing Weekend is June 5th and 6th.. Fish anywhere

in Indiana, including the Ohio River, without purchasing a license! 

Free Fishing Guides, fish identification booklets and posters are

available at the Interpretive Center.

For immediate release: April 27, 2010

What:           Earth Day Celebration  

When:          Saturday, May 8 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Where:         Falls of the Ohio State Park & Interpretive Center

201 W Riverside Drive, Clarksville, Indiana

Sponsored by:  Trash Force, Inc, & Kentuckiana AIR Education

Free admission to the Interpretive Center, courtesy Jamey Aebersold

Many new exhibitors, plus activities, displays, entertainment, music and food!

Jamey Aebersold’s Jazz Quartet performing at 1:30  

Jungle John’s “Silly Safari” live animal show, from noon to 4:00

Live Raptors – all day

Delbert the Wizard 11:00 and 1:00

Sign up to Win Bikes, provided by Clarksville Schwinn and KAIRE

Bike, walk or carpool in and receive a gift from KAIRE

Free native tree or shrub seedlings from Valonia State Nursery to the first 400 visitors

Kite flying, face painting, seed planting, and more

Take your picture with Smokey Bear and the Emerald Ash Beetle!

Enjoy the Junk Genius’ Robots, made out of recycled toys

Examine hybrid vehicles close-up

Look at ways to use solar energy and energy efficient lighting

Be creative with driftwood art to take home

Admire local artists’colorful Nature Photography & litter sculptures!

Levee Top Trail – Grand Opening Ceremony – 1:00

Environmental groups share ideas for being good stewards of the Earth,

and local businesses celebrate Earth Day with demonstrations of Earth

friendly products and activities.

Want to learn more? Call 812-280-9970

For immediate release: February 18, 2010

Contact – Dani Cummins, dani@fallsoftheohio.org, (812) 283-4999

2010 Falls of the Ohio Summer Day Camps

Young Explorer Day Camps – Students explore the different habitats found at the Falls of the

Ohio State Park and exhibits within the Interpretive Center. Using hands-on educational activities, students learn about science and history, including fossils, nature, native people, plants, aquatic life, and more. Grades 4-6 attend in the mornings from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and grades 1-3 attend in the afternoons from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The fee is $100.

The Young Explorer Day Camp schedule is as follows:

June 7-11           June 21-25         July 12-16          July 19-23          July 26-30

Teen Archaeologist Day Camp – This “career camp” is for children ages 11-15 who will explore the work of an archaeologist. Students discover how archaeologists learn about past cultures by studying artifacts left by these earlier peoples. Activities will be led by members of the Falls of the Ohio Archaeological Society. A parent or guardian must transport the child to the archaeology digging site and stay with the child on Saturday. Families are welcome to watch the morning excavation then return to the Interpretive Center for “Archaeology Layer Cake”, certificate awards and the Archaeological Society meeting from 2:00 to 4:00. 

The camp is July 1-3, Thursday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The fee is $100.

Paleontology Explorer Camp – This “career camp” is for children fascinated with fossils who will examine the world of a paleontologist. Students ages 11-16 discover how paleontologists uncover the history of life on Earth by studying fossils. Two off-site collecting trips are scheduled and a parent or guardian’s presence is required. Parents or guardians must transport children to the field collecting sites on Wednesday and Thursday (this lasts usually from 9 am – 1 pm). The child’s registration form must include a hand-written paragraph explaining why he/she wants to attend.

The camp is July 6-8, Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The fee is $100. 

Falls Exploration Summer Camp for ADULTS

Adults, be a kid again! Join teacher/author Kenny Karem (Probing the Wonders of the Falls) in an exploration of the varied park habitats along the Ohio River, including the world-famous Devonian fossil beds. Along with touring the Interpretive Center’s exhibits and examining specimens, we will venture outside every day to explore and discover the many wonders of the Falls of the Ohio.

Senior citizens welcome!

This camp is June 1-4 (Tuesday-Friday), from 8:30-11:30 am. The fee is $80.

Day camps are sponsored by The Falls of the Ohio Foundation and State Park Interpretive Center.

To register for one of the day camps, email dani@fallsoftheohio.org, or call (812) 283-4999.

For immediate release: December 4, 2009

Contact:  Connie Farmer, Volunteer Coordinator, 812-280-9970, ext. 404 or Alan Goldstein ext. 403

Become a Naturalist at Heart at the Falls of the Ohio

Do you think of yourself as a naturalist at heart? If so, consider joining the Naturalist at Heart volunteer program at the Falls of the Ohio State Park. This exciting program was created to combine education and volunteering. Interested applicants are interviewed to establish mutual goals. Volunteer interests are matched with the needs of the park and its visitors.

Now in its sixth year, new participants may attend the program orientation either January 6 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., or January 9 from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Call the park to register. Those unable to attend on either date can schedule an individual orientation. Participants will be offered free classes relating to the natural and cultural history of the Falls of the Ohio. Lessons cover geology, biology, archaeology, history, interpretation, and more. To help volunteers meet their goals, we have two levels of certification as a Naturalist at Heart. The first level of certification is reached after 40 hours of lessons and 50 hours of volunteer time at the park.

Most of the classes are open to the public and typically last three hours. Classes are on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. or Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Level I classes are offered twice and level 2 classes are offered once. Speakers are park staff or invited experts.

2010 classes open to everyone include:

Heart Certification Level I (Introductory)

Geology of the Falls, Alan Goldstein: January 30 & February 3

Fossils at the Falls, Alan Goldstein: Feb. 20 & 24

Prehistory at the Falls, Bett Etenohan: Feb. 6 & 17

Life in the Ohio River, Jeremy Beavin: Feb. 27 & Mar. 10

Birds at the Falls, Kathy Dennis: Mar. 20 & 24

Spring Wildflowers, Connie Farmer: Apr. 7 & 10

History of the Falls, Jeannie Burke: April 21 & 24

Tree Identification, Connie Farmer: May 19 & 22

Heart Certification Level 2 (More in-depth)

Backyard Nature, Bill Adams: Jan. 27

Urban Mammals, Doug McCoy, Louisville Zoo: Mar. 3

Wildflowers of Southern Indiana, Richard Lyons: Mar. 6

Ohio River Fish, Dr. William Pearson, University of Louisville: Mar. 13

Ohio River History, Chuck Parrish, Corps of Engineers Historian (retired): Mar. 17

Shore & Wading Birds of the Ohio River Area, Brainard Palmer-Ball: Apr. 14

Understanding Evolution, Alan Goldstein: April 28

If you would like to participate in this educational opportunity at the Falls of the Ohio State Park call 812-280-9970 or e-mail park @ fallsoftheohio.org.

2009 'Between the Holidays' Programs at the Falls of the Ohio State Park 

December 28, 29 & 30 at 2:00

 December 28 – Discovering Geodes – Alan Goldstein Fascinated with the crystal-filled round rocks found in Indiana and Kentucky? How were they formed? Why are some hollow and others solid? What minerals are found inside? Why are they found in certain locations and not everywhere? Explore the geology of the curious geode and find answers. After the program, check out the fossil cart and then visit the quarry piles by the parking lot, weather permitting, to take home a fossil, rock or crystal! 

December 29 – Polar Bears in Peril – Emily Goldstein Emily is Arctic Teen Ambassador for the Louisville Zoo and a freshman at the University of Louisville. She will share her experiences with polar bear research and show how climate change is affecting their ecosystem. Emily has been to Churchill, Manitoba twice to study the bears, and has first-hand knowledge of how climate change has already affected the Arctic. 

                  Emily Goldstein photo

December 30 – Family Storytelling - Mandy Dick “Why Bear has a Short Tail” and other tales! Besides the stories, the Kids Corner will be open for the little ones, with puppets, books and toys, and older children may “scavenger hunt” in the exhibit gallery.

For more information call 812-280-9970. Programs at the Interpretive Center are included in building admission. Images of larger file size are available to the media. Contact us: park @ fallsoftheohio.org.

Local Authors Book Signing, including books for children and adults

at the Falls of the Ohio State Park  

Saturday, December 5, from 1:00 to 4:00

Topics include history, geology, archaeology, and Ohio River boats

Free copies of Early Peoples of Indiana while they last.

Visit with Betty Stokes: Postcards from William, with a Sacagawea paper doll!

Don Janzen: Unearthing the Past, the archaeology of the Ohio River region

Mandy Dick: Corydon, the Images of America Series

Terry Cummins: How Did Back Then Become Right Now? and other works

Alan Bates:  Books on Ohio River boats

Kadie Engstrom: Activity books from the Belle of Louisville

Kenny Karem: Probing the Wonders of the Falls

Barbara Conkin: Books on local geology for adults and children

Angelo George: Mammoth Cave Saltpeter Works, and Outer Door to the Auger Hole (Wyandotte Cave)

Steve Wiser: Louisville Tapestry: People & Places Who Helped Create America's “Most Livable City” 

The book signing will take place in the Interpretive Center lobby at no charge.

For more information call (812) 280-9970.

Buy your Indiana State Park Pass at the Falls of the Ohio

November 9, 2009

Just in time for holidays! 2010 Indiana State Park Passes and Golden Hoosier Passes make great gifts. These passes allow free admission for a carload of visitors at all Indiana State Park and Reservoir properties. The State Park passes are $36 for in-state and $46 for out of state visitors. The Golden Hoosier Pass is $18.  At the Falls of the Ohio Interpretive Center, you get up to five visitors in for free with the park pass, plus a hang-tag for your rear view mirror for free parking year round! Enjoy annual events and special programs throughout the year with this one

time purchase. For more information call (812) 280-9970.

Old News!

Lewis and Clark Festival
October 17 & 18

George Rogers Clark Home Site, Harrison Avenue, Clarksville, Indiana
(I-65, Exit 1, follow the signs)
Saturday from 10:00 to 4:00
Sunday from 10:30 to 3:00 The Lewis and Clark re-enactors’ encampment demonstrates the way of life during the early 1800’s. Visit the cabin and learn about General George Rogers Clark, military hero and founder of Louisville and Clarksville. Historic displays and exhibits: Artillery demonstrations throughout the day
- 1800 Period Artisans: spinning, weaving, candle making
- Blacksmith and Forge
- Historic Survey Equipment Display
- Campfire Cooking
- Games for children to play and goats to visit
- Native American Atlatl (spear-throwing) practice
- Try your skill with a large two-person cross-cut saw!
- Bison stew and other great food!

Living history on the banks of the Ohio River in Clarksville, Indiana

Falls of the Ohio State Park
IN-SHAPE Day - Walks for Fitness

Saturday September 12, at 10:00 a.m. 

Start at the George Rogers Clark Homesite on Harrison Avenue in Clarksville and
enjoy a leisurely walk on the levee trail to the Falls Interpretive Center and back. It’s a
level, grass covered trail, about 3 miles in all, and has a great view of the Ohio River.
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Bring along your own water bottle.
Participants will be entered in hold a drawing for one of two $50 camp gift cards
and for one of ten copies of the new history documentary "Indiana State Parks: Treasures in Your Own Back Yard.” For more information call 812-280-9970.

Falls of the Ohio Programs on the River
See the Falls by boat or by foot!

Saturday, September 12
Canoe or kayak with Naturalist Bett Etenohan in the unique Falls of the Ohio National
Wildlife Conservation Area. Meet at the Interpretive Center at 9:00 a.m. and caravan  to
the river together, or meet at the boat ramp on Harrison Avenue by 9:30 a.m. We plan to
return around noon. Call on Friday (812) 280-9970, to make sure the river level is safe
for boating. Bring your own canoe and PFD (life jacket), water to drink, and sun protection.
If you don’t have a boat of your own, you can rent a canoe or kayak through Canoe
Kentucky. Call 888-CANOEKY to make your reservation. Children under 16 must be
accompanied by an adult.

Last Canoe & kayak trip of the season: October 3.

More hikes: September 19 & 20, October 3 & 10

Temporary exhibit Green Planet: The History of Plants
Now through November 29, 2009

Presented in partnership with Indiana University Southeast Department of Biology, this exhibit focuses on the rise and evolution of land plants in the fossil record. When did land plants first appear? How have they changed? When were the first trees? When were the first seeds and flowers?  Which plants created the coal beds? What evidence exists for insects eating and pollinating plants? These questions and others will be answered utilizing exceptional fossils, illustrations and informative text.

This exhibit was developed by paleo-botanist Dr. David W. Taylor, Professor and Head of Biology, Indiana University Southeast. He will speak to the public on the history of land plants at the Falls Fossil Festival on Sept. 19 at 4:30 pm. 

This exhibit is free with paid admission to the Interpretive Center. Admission Monday - Thursday is $4 for age 19 and over, $1 age 2 - 18 and under 2 is free. Friday – Sunday $5 for adults and $2 for children. The Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For more information about this exhibit at the Falls of the Ohio State Park, call Alan Goldstein at 812-280-9970 or e-mail him at agoldstein@dnr.in.gov. Digital photos are available via e-mail.

“Rock the Rocks” to Benefit the Falls of the Ohio          
        
Clarksville, IN --The Falls of the Ohio Foundation announces it’s fifth annual “Rock the Rocks,” fundraising event on Saturday, August 22, 2009 from 6-10 p.m. at the Falls of the Ohio State Park Interpretive Center in Clarksville, Indiana. Proceeds will benefit the foundation’s mission of educational program development at the Falls.

Enjoy live music, food by Terri Lynn’s Catering by Design, and libations featuring Jim Beam Brands Company and the New Albanian Brewing Company. Other activities include a silent auction, raffle, and fossil bed hike. Patrons will get a sneak peek of a capital campaign for new exhibits at the Interpretive Center, view the original exhibits and see a temporary exhibit titled “Green Planet: The History of Plants.” Also, a fun theme tied in with this year’s event is Fossilstock – 40th Anniversary of Woodstock.  Dress for the event is casual, and tickets are $60 in advance and $75 day of the event. A reserved table for eight is $480.
“Rock the Rocks” is sponsored by American Water, Duke Energy, Horseshoe Foundation of Southern Indiana, Mac Construction & Excavating, and Your Community Bank. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (812) 283-4999.

Falls Fossil Festival at Falls of the Ohio State Park

  The Falls of the Ohio State Park's 15th "Falls Fossil Festival" will be held September 19 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and September 20, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event, sponsored by the Falls of the Ohio Foundation, features:

* 20 vendors selling fossils, minerals, crystals, educational material, crafts and food
* Children's Activity Area with a variety of fun and educational activities
* Resource Tent where you can get fossils and rocks identified by members of the Indiana Society for
Paleontology, the Kentucky Paleontological Society and the Kyana Geological Society. Learn about other geological sites with material from many other fossil parks in North America, as well as information and free literature from the Indiana and Kentucky Geological Surveys.
* Fossil and mineral identification - bring in your mystery rocks!
* Hikes on the fossil beds, including extended hikes on the outer fossil beds
* Collecting Silurian and Devonian fossils from special rock piles donated by Hanson Aggregates
and collecting crystals from a mineral pile from southern Illinois fluorite mines. 
Note: Collecting is not permitted anywhere else in the park
*Exhibit – “Green Planet: The History of Plants” in the Interpretive Center explores plants in the fossil
record and modern examples of  “ancient” plants.

Proceeds benefit the education programs at the Falls of the Ohio State Park, which reach some 12,000 students each year!

Archaeology Day at the Falls of the Ohio
September 5, 2009 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

The Falls of the Ohio Archaeological Society presents a day of archaeological activities for adults and children of all ages!

• Want to know what a particular object was used for or how old it is?
• Bring your prehistoric and historic artifacts for identification
• Learn how prehistoric and historic artifacts functioned by using them yourself
• Make a pottery vessel to take home with you
• Throw prehistoric darts with an atlatl
• Watch flintknappers make prehistoric stone tools
• View interpretive poster and artifact displays about the prehistoric and historic pasts of the Falls area
• Participate in a mock dig
• Learn how an archaeological site is formed
• Ask questions of professional archaeologists
• Learn how to become actively involved in local archaeology and how to become a steward of the past

Ancient Kentucke Historical Association
On the last Saturday of each month, the Interpretive Center features a program with an introduction from a member of the Ancient Kentucke Historical Association, shown at 2 p.m. in the auditorium on the big screen.

June 27: Tunnel of Time, A Tribute to Marion Dahm
Marion Dahm was the dean of grassroots Viking research in the United States.  For more than half his life he pursued the burning question: did the Norsemen penetrate the interior of North America? He tracked down every lead for bits and pieces of evidence-artifacts such as bronze spear points, iron axes, Medieval swords.  Most of all he was constantly on the trail of the mysterious triangular shaped hole which he was certain was a mooring hole and evidence, the calling card of the Vikings. This is a JoLe Productions film by Lee and Joy Pennington.

Family Fun Fair at the Falls of the Ohio Interpretive Center
Saturday, August 1 from 10:00 to 4:00

A “Cool” indoor event with a sample of each of the Falls annual events!

Fossil Festival – find and take home your very own 425 million year old fossil from a collection                  donated by Hanson’s Quarry.
The Lewis & Clark Festival – meet Seaman the Dog and get his autograph!
Earth Day – Driftwood Art, recycle natural objects into a “Nature Critter”
George Rogers Clark Home Site– meet our re-enactors of the early 1800’s and
         make a “Three Sisters” bracelet with corn, beans and squash
Archaeology Day – practice with ancient games and tools and solve a puzzle
Raptor Day – watch wild birds through the telescope and take apart owl pellets
Kids Corner – storytelling at 11:00, 1:00 & 3:00, fossil rubbings all day
Ohio River Sweep – pick up litter and receive a gift (the only outdoor activity)

Plus everyone’s favorite, Dr. Seus’ “The Lorax” on the big screen at 2:00 and the spectacular “400 Million Years at the Falls” movie throughout the day

Saturday June 13th, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. 

Join Kenny Karem, author of Probing the Wonders of the Falls, on a fossil bed hike
as part of the celebration of National Trails Day. Besides touring the fossil beds, the
hike will cover the plants and birds, the historic railroad bridge and dam and some fun exploration activities. It should last about 2 hours and is an easy hike. Meet on the River Observation Deck at the Falls Center, wear comfortable tennis or hiking shoes, and bring
water and a sun hat.

Fishing Fun at the Falls of the Ohio

WHEN: Saturday, June 6, 2009

WHERE: The Falls of the Ohio State Park, 201 West Riverside Drive, Clarksville

WHO: DNR’s Steve Knowles will conduct free outdoor activities, open to all ages

WHAT: 12:00 - Fly Fishing Fundamentals, casting demo and practice
 1:00 - Casting contest, with rods & reels as prizes!
 1:30 – Fish Art

Indiana’s Free Fishing Weekend is June 6th and 7th.. Fish anywhere in Indiana, including the Ohio River, without purchasing a license!  Free Fishing Guides, fish identification booklets and posters are available at the Interpretive Center.

Clark County’s Ohio River Sweep

WHAT: The annual riverbank cleanup for Clark County, a community effort to
improve the north shore of the Ohio River, creating a cleaner and safer environment
for everyone to enjoy.

WHEN: from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday June 20, 2009

WHERE: The Falls of the Ohio State Park, the George Rogers Clark Homesite,
Ashland Park and Charlestown State Park. If you know of another section of riverbank
that needs attention, call Clark County Chairperson Bett Etenohan at 280-8689.

WHO: Come as an individual, as part of a team, or with your family. Only groups with
minors need to get parental permission forms signed in advance. Forms may be picked up
at the Falls Interpretive Center or can be faxed to you by calling 280-8689.

HOW: Registration tables will be open at 9 a.m. at Ashland Park, the Falls of the
Ohio and Charlestown State Park. Pick up your trash bags and FREE tee shirt, then it’s
off to your chosen area to fill those bags and make a difference for the environment and
the community. Anyone with a River Sweep tee shirt gets free admission to the Interpretive
Center at the Falls of the Ohio State Park all day!

Local Author Book Signing and Storytelling at the Falls of the Ohio State Park
Saturday, May 16, 2009

1:00 to 4:00 - Local author book signing, featuring Mandy Dick with her new release,
Corydon, an “Images of America” book.  Mandy will also be portraying her great, great, great grandmother, Elizabeth English Pennington. Elizabeth and her husband Dennis Pennington, were pioneers when Corydon was becoming established as the capitol of the new state of Indiana. Mandy’s vast knowledge of Corydon’s past is evident in the book, which is full of historic photographs with fascinating captions,
and in her storytelling, filled with delightful details that make history come alive.

Otis Amanda Dick, “Mandy”, earned a Bachelor’s degree in English, with Honors,
from the University of Louisville. Her career as a writer, educator and historian led to her interest in the historic characters which she portrays so well, as re-enactor and storyteller.

The book signing and storytelling will take place in the lobby at no charge.

IN-SHAPE Day - Walks for Fitness
Saturday May 2nd at 10:00 a.m. 

Start at the George Rogers Clark Homesite on Harrison Avenue in Clarksville and
enjoy a leisurely walk on the levee trail to the Falls Interpretive Center and back. It’s a
level, grass covered trail, about 3 miles in all, and has a great view of the Ohio River. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Bring along your own water bottle. Participants
will be entered in a drawing for a free State Park Pass, good at any Indiana State Park!

What: Earth Day Celebration  
When: Saturday, April 11, 2009 from 10 to 4
Where: Falls of the Ohio State Park & Interpretive Center
201 W Riverside Drive, Clarksville, Indiana

Sponsored by:  Trash Force, Inc, & Kentuckiana AIR Education
Free admission to the Interpretive Center, courtesy Jamey Aebersold

Over 50 exhibitors with activities, displays, entertainment, music and food!
Aebersold’s Jazz Quartet performing at 1:30  
Jungle John’s “Silly Safari” live animal show, from noon to 4:00
His Earth friendly message is presented in delightful interactions with the audience and his furry – and not so furry – friends.
Sign up to Win Bikes from Clarksville Schwinn and KAIRE
Kite flying, face painting, seed planting, free tree seedlings and more
Take your picture with Smokey Bear
Enjoy the Junk Genius’ Robots, made out of recycled toys
Examine gas-electric vehicles close-up
Look at ways to use solar energy and energy efficient lighting
Be creative with driftwood art to take home
Admire local artists’colorful Nature photography

Environmental groups share ideas for being good stewards of the Earth, and local businesses celebrate Earth Day with demonstrations of Earth friendly products and activities. Want to learn more? Call 812-280-9970

January 16, 2009
Falls of the Ohio State Park hosts Ancient Kentucke Historical Association
On the last Saturday of each month, the Interpretive Center features a program with an introduction from a member of the Ancient Kentucke Historical Association, shown at 2 p.m. in the auditorium on the big screen.

January 31: China
In the Second Century B.C., China faced harrowing attacks from Mongol hordes on its vast, outlying frontiers.  In response, China’s leaders built the most awesome defensive barrier in the history of civilization: the Great Wall of China.  Within this 2,600-mile stone cocoon, China nurtured revolutionary achievements from the invention of paper, printing and the compass-to the development of weaponry, torture and warfare on an unprecedented scale.

Western and Chinese archaeologists seek to rediscover the powerful dichotomy haunting China’s past, where the ruling elite lived in opulent splendor, while the peasant masses endured unimaginable hardships. This film traces the rise of China’s earliest dynasty, the Shang-savage, aristocratic hunter-warriors steeped in superstition and ritual human sacrifice. Then came the dawn of the golden age of philosophic enlightenment during the dynasty of the Chou, followed by the rise of Ch’in Shihuang Di, China’s first emperor, who would raise the Great Wall on the blood and sweat of his vast slave-labor armies.  From the stunningly lifelike, full-sized terra cotta soldiers buried by the thousands at Xi’an, to the vibrant imperial court of the fabled Forbidden City, the film gives a revealing glimpse into the majesty-and savagery-of China’s ancient dynasties.

All programs at the Interpretive Center are free with building admission.

January 14, 2009
“Historic Archaeology of the Falls of the Ohio Region”

The Falls of the Ohio Archaeology Society gathered artifacts and information from excavations in the local area for this very special exhibit. Many of the artifacts have never been shown to the public and it is quite unusual to have so many sites represented in one exhibit. These sites cover the period from the late 1700’s to the mid 1900’s. Artifacts include pottery, bricks, coins, beads, buckles and an amazing variety of glass bottles. The exhibit will be on display in the Interpretive Center at the Falls of the Ohio State Park through March.

Naturalist at Heart Programs at the Falls of the Ohio

The following Naturalist at Heart volunteer classes are open to public.
Programs are free with regular Interpretive Center admission.  Classes last two to three
hours and are offered on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Speakers
are park staff or invited experts.

Level I (Introductory)
Geology of the Falls, Alan Goldstein: February 4 & 7
Fossils at the Falls, Alan Goldstein: Feb. 25 & Mar. 14
Life in the Ohio River, Jeremy Beavin: Mar. 4 & 7
Birds at the Falls, Kathy Dennis: Mar. 25
Spring Wildflowers, Bill Adams: Apr. 8
Spring Wildflowers, Connie Farmer: April 18
History of the Falls, Jeannie Burke: May 6 & 9
Tree Identification, Connie Farmer: May 27 & 30

Level 2 (More in-depth)
History of Clarksville, Jane Sarles: Jan. 28
River Mussels, Brant Fisher: Feb. 11
Ohio Valley Archaeology, Anne Bader: Feb. 14
Paleo-ecology of the Fossil Beds, Alan Goldstein: Feb. 18, Feb. 21
Insects – Eric Bitner: April 1
Reptiles and Amphibians: Sara Beth Klueh: Mar. 11

Do you think of yourself as a naturalist at heart? If so, consider joining the Naturalist at Heart program at the Falls of the Ohio State Park. This exciting program combines learning with volunteering. Volunteer interests are matched with the needs of the park and its visitors. Certification as a Naturalist at Heart is reached after 40 hours of classes and 50 hours of volunteer time at the park. If you would like to participate, call 812-280-9970.

Updated February 18, 2010