Discover a bustling world beneath winter’s blanket at Lake Metroparks Farmpark, where life on the farm proves to be a hotbed of activity even during hibernation season

By Mimi Vanderhaven

Though we may be in prime hibernation season, it turns out life on a farm in winter is actually a hotbed of goings-on. Mimi caught up with Steve Ohmes, assistant administrator of Lake Metroparks Farmpark for a fascinating glimpse.

“To the non-farming population, it may look like not much happens on a farm from winter to spring, but nothing could be further from the truth,” he says. “This time of year is special—we get to see newborn lambs, baby goats (kids) and baby pigs (piglets) exploring their new world.”

Protecting livestock from the elements and repairing and maintaining farm equipment takes up a large chunk of time and energy in the winter months.

“Crop farmers spend winter reviewing soil tests, planning proper fertilization application and crop rotations for the best yield,” Steve says. “The planning never stops. Business decisions ensure what’s best for the livestock, land, water quality and sustainability of the operation all while focusing on growing a safe and healthy product.”

If you want a firsthand peek at winter on the farm, don’t miss Maple Sugaring Weekends at Lake Metoparks Farmpark on Saturdays and Sundays, March 2-3 and 9-10.

“Visitors can witness how sap is collected from more than 1,000 taps, tubing and pumps,” Steve says. “Then they’ll see it boiled and turned into syrup and candy. Kids can personally help gather the sap in buckets.”

But if Punxsutawney Phil has already made his call, can spring be far behind? Steve says now is the ideal time to plan your garden. Get advice from staff at the Plant Science Center—from discovering which plants thrive best in our zone, to starting your seedlings now to be ahead of the game come planting time.

Lake Metroparks annually provides more than four million visitors with recreational and educational experiences. Lake Metroparks Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road in Kirtland. Visit LakeMetroparks.com for more information.