ODNR Invites Ohioans to Celebrate Earth Science Week 2026
October 6, 2026
By Aaron Glandon
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Geological Survey is celebrating Earth Science Week from Sunday, October 11, through Saturday, October 17. Four special events will be held across Ohio, aligning with the annual national celebration.
“We hope Ohioans will join ODNR in this annual campaign that inspires a passion for earth science and a love for our natural world,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz.
This year’s Earth Science Week theme is “Critical Minerals for a Thriving Society,” emphasizing the role of geoscience in the responsible management of essential critical minerals.
Events include:
- Sunday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.: Sinkhole Hike, Wellington Park, Dublin
- Tuesday, Oct. 13, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.: Fossil Tour, Ohio Statehouse, Columbus
- Thursday, Oct. 15, 4 p.m.: Geology of Cedar Bog Talk & ADA-Accessible Hike, Cedar Bog State Nature Preserve, Urbana
- Sunday, Oct. 18, 1 p.m.: Guided Fossil Collecting, Caesar Creek State Park, Waynesville
“Earth Science Week is an excellent opportunity to engage in the connection between geoscience and our daily lives,” said D. Mark Jones, Division Chief and State Geologist of Ohio.
Comprehensive information about Earth Science Week activities is available at ohiodnr.gov.
Additionally, a limited number of Earth Science Week teacher toolkits are available for Ohio educators. These toolkits include experiment instructions, a calendar, posters, activity sheets, and other classroom materials. They are free (with a $5 shipping fee) for any Ohio educator while supplies last. For orders, contact the Geologic Records Center at (614) 265-6576 or [email protected].
