Bobwhites and Freedom: Ashland County Park District Celebrates July 4th with Quail Release at New Outdoor Education Center
ASHLAND COUNTY — On a sunlit July 4th afternoon with a light breeze dancing through the trees, patriotism wasn’t the only thing taking flight in Ashland County. At the brand-new David McClure Outdoor Education Center, the Ashland County Park District celebrated America’s Independence Day with an event rooted in freedom—releasing dozens of Northern Bobwhite Quail into the wild.
More than just a symbolic gesture, this event marked the beginning of an ambitious wildlife restoration effort to reintroduce the iconic native species back into the local ecosystem—right here in the heart of Ashland County.
“This is about freedom for all—even our feathered friends,” said Park District Commissioner Bob DeSanto. “These birds were raised in captivity, but today, on America’s Freedom Day, they get their own independence. There’s nothing more American than the call of a bobwhite quail.”
The release took place on the grounds of the David McClure Outdoor Education Center, a sprawling 3,200-square-foot facility dedicated to outdoor learning and environmental appreciation. The center features classroom space, restrooms, and a scenic patio—all nestled within a landscape designed to spark curiosity and connect visitors to nature.
“This Nature Center is going to be the premier facility of its kind in the region,” DeSanto said proudly. “We’re here today not just to celebrate America, but to make this center a place where future generations can hear, see, and learn about wildlife in their natural setting.”
Bringing Back the Bobwhite
Northern Bobwhite Quail, once common throughout Ohio, have been on a sharp decline for decades. A brutal snowstorm in the 1970s decimated their populations, and they’ve struggled to recover ever since. But Park District leaders believe that, with care and community support, a comeback is possible.
The release was made possible by Ron and Eddie Flanek, who donated the quail. Andy McClure, the center’s manager, explained the strategic thinking behind the effort.
“We’re starting with about 60 birds in groups of 10 to 15—what we call a covey,” McClure said. “We’re releasing them near tree cover and water sources to give them the best chance of survival. They’ll have shelter from aerial predators and access to natural food sources like bugs and seeds.”
McClure pointed out that the quail are currently at an ideal age—half-grown and just beginning to learn how to fend for themselves in the wild.
“They’re not fully colored yet, but that’s actually a good thing. We want them to grow up in the wild, learning to adapt to the environment and stay safe from predators.”
An Educational Opportunity
Beyond the ecological goal, the quail release is meant to be a unique, hands-on educational opportunity for the community.
“We want the public to experience the sounds and sights of these birds,” McClure said. “The males make a distinct ‘bob-white’ call that echoes through the trees. It’s a sound that’s all but disappeared from Ohio’s wild spaces, and we hope to bring it back.”
Both McClure and DeSanto emphasized the importance of letting the birds establish without interference.
“We’re asking visitors not to chase the quail or allow their dogs to disturb them,” DeSanto said. “Let’s give them a chance to thrive.”
Looking Ahead: Something Fishy
As the quail fluttered into the brush and found their new home, the Park District was already looking forward to its next community event—“Something Fishy,” a kid-friendly fishing day set for August 9 at the David McClure Outdoor Education Center.
“It’ll be a great day for families,” McClure said. “We’ll have rods and reels available, and we’re partnering with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ashland Soil & Water Conservation District. If your kids haven’t tried fishing, this is the day to do it.”
A Day to Remember
As the final birds were released and their soft calls echoed through the trees, one thing was clear—this was no ordinary Fourth of July celebration. In Ashland County, freedom was honored not just with fireworks, but with feathers.
With its commitment to environmental stewardship and education, the Ashland County Park District is creating not just a sanctuary for wildlife—but a legacy for future generations to connect with nature in their own backyard.
