ODNR Invites Ohioans to Celebrate Earth Science Week 2026

October 6, 2026 Aaron Glandon

Article presented by Litter Quality Propane and Hometown Motors, Inc …

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 offered throughout Ohio and will coincide 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.

The theme for Earth Science Week 2026 is “Critical Minerals for a Thriving Society,” highlighting the importance of geoscience research and technology for identifying, mining, refining, transporting, and using critical minerals responsibly for the essential needs of all.

Several ODNR geologists will lead a variety of events throughout the week. This year’s 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. “The ODNR Division of Geological Survey stands ready to serve Ohioans by providing the earth science information and data to inform wise decision-making regarding Ohio’s future.”

Complete program information for all Earth Science Week activities is available at ohiodnr.gov.

In addition to the events, a limited number of Earth Science Week teacher toolkits are available for Ohio educators. The toolkits include experiment instructions, a calendar, posters, activity sheets, and additional classroom materials. Toolkits are free (but require $5 shipping) for any Ohio teacher, including homeschool teachers, while supplies last. Teacher toolkits, geologic maps, and other educational publications can be ordered by contacting the Geologic Records Center at (614) 265-6576 or [email protected].