A University of Cincinnati professor who has spent decades cataloging rare native plants across the Cincinnati region will lead a free guided walk through Montgomery's Johnson Nature Preserve on Thursday, September 10.
Dr. Denis Conover, a field service associate professor of biological sciences at UC, will guide participants along the preserve's trails from 10 a.m. to noon, identifying Ohio native plants and explaining their role in the local ecosystem. The event is hosted by Montgomery's Parks and Recreation Commission and is open to all ages, though the city notes the presentation content is geared toward high school age and older.
About Dr. Conover
Conover has studied the ecology of Greater Cincinnati's forests, wetlands, and prairies since earning his Ph.D. from UC in 1990. His fieldwork has included vascular plant surveys of Hamilton County parks and the discovery of previously unknown populations of the federally endangered running buffalo clover. More recently, he has focused on controlling invasive species that threaten native habitats.
"Honeysuckle outcompetes many native plants because it leafs out earlier in the spring and stays green longer into the winter, shading out other plants," Conover told UC News in March 2025, describing his work removing Amur honeysuckle and replanting native red bud, oak and chokecherry in its place.
What to know before you go
Johnson Nature Preserve sits at 10840 Deerfield Road in Montgomery. The 0.35-mile path winds through a valley of trees, past flower beds of native plants and cedar log benches, according to the city's preserve page. The city advises wearing comfortable shoes or boots, as trails can vary in grade and traction.
The walk happens rain or shine.
A previous iteration of the same program, held Sunday, May 3, filled to capacity, according to the city's event listing. No registration link or capacity limit has been posted for the September date; residents should check montgomeryohio.gov for updates.
Upcoming Montgomery community events
- Thursday, Sept. 10 — Botany Walk, Johnson Nature Preserve, 10 a.m.–noon (free)
- Wednesday, Oct. 14 — Succulent-growing class, B&T Talks series
- Saturday, Oct. 24 — Lanterns & Landmarks walking tour, historic downtown Montgomery
