COLUMBUS, OH - A blaze of yellow, white and purple blooms will greet visitors as they experience pre-settlement Ohio-- when prairies covered sections of western Ohio with tall grasses and prairie wildflowers. Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve will host an Open House, part of the Natural Areas Discovery Series on Saturday, August 2 at 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Chaparral Prairie is an outstanding example of a cedar barren prairie complete with a variety of common and rare wildflowers and butterflies. Wildflowers such as prairie dock and spiked blazing-star grow in abundance at this preserve, along with 11 plant species considered rare in Ohio including American bluehearts, prairie false indigo and pink milkwort. The prairie also features the state’s most extensive population of rattlesnake-master, an appealing white flower listed as potentially threatened in Ohio. The Open House will feature a guided wildflower walk and prairie presentation beginning at 10 a.m. Because of the preserve’s proximity to other Adams County prairies, visitors are encouraged to ask staff for directions to other nearby sites.

Sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, the Natural Areas Discovery Series features guided hikes, interpretive activities and outdoor programs. The next event will be held Saturday, September 20 at Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve in Erie County.