If you happen to be in Columbus at the Ohio State Fair, be certain to stop by the Natural Areas and Preserves booth in the middle of ODNR land.
You find a lovely little patch of prairie there, and a fun quiz for the kiddos. They can answer the questions by reading the signs on the native plants.
The blooms are putting on quite a display, in spite of the intense heat. Four out of five climatologists recommend "prairie plants!"
The Ox-eye Sunflower, Heliopsis helianthoides is putting on a nice show of yellow. The prairie garden has many labels to help you identify the plants. These native plants work well in landscapes, and generally require much less water and maintenance.
A Black-eyed Susan, Rudbeckia hirta has a caterpillar adorning its crown. Nature has a way of finding these plants, even in the middle of a city.
Nearby, a new geological timeline display was dedicated. This is an excellent opportunity to see how Ohio "rocks"- geologically speaking.
The historic buildings for vendors are a welcome sight at the Ohio State Fair. It is a reminder our rich agricultural past, and hopefully it will be our future as well. The Ohio State Fair has been important part of our farm culture for over 100 years.
DNAP- they are the ones who conserve some of the rarest plants and animals (including butterflies) in Ohio. Funding has been a major issue this year, and the Division was all but dissolved. Since there is no revenue stream - like hunting licenses or camping site fees- your donations are essential to the protection of these fabulous site. Many are the places consistently featured on this blog: Fowler Woods, Irwin Prairie, Sears Wood, Springville Marsh (to name a few.) So remember to CHECK OFF a donation on your state income tax, or purchase one of those cool purple coneflower and monarch license plates. Those funds go directly to DNAP.
The Natural Resources Park at the state fair has something for everyone! Fishing, kayaking, avian displays, camping info, a mini prairie, and of course my other favorite spot...
The Butterfly House! Packed full of native plants and a variety of butterflies for your viewing pleasure.
People were more than willing to endure the heat to get a gander at flutter-bys up close and personal. Don't forget your camera! 
