Nature in Dayton: An Anthology

Take another look at downtown Dayton

What do you think of when you connect the words “downtown” and “nature”?

Pigeons, rats? Yes, these, of course, but there are facets of urban life seldom considered even by people who have lived in the city for years. Dane Mutter learned that many things live downtown besides people.

An avid wildlife observer, he found a brown creeper trapped under a canopy in Courthouse Square, which led to his fascination with urban wildlife and to the writing of his Downtowner column.

His readers began to call and excitedly report, “I just saw a beaver swimming up Wolf Creek!” “Can you believe, I just saw a deer swimming under the Main Street Bridge!”     

Here’s what Miami Valley environmental leaders say about Dane:

“As a former public official, I have never known an individual who had a more profound influence upon the environment than Dane Mutter. Dane is a leading force within the environmental movement.”  -- Marvin Olinsky, Former Director-Secretary, Five Rivers MetroParks

“Dane Mutter was my introduction to the natural world that exists in our region. He instilled an appreciation I carry and share today.” -- Charlie Shoemaker, Former Director-Secretary, Five Rivers MetroParks

“Dane Mutter is the iconic naturalist of Ohio’s Miami Valley. A wise, compassionate soul, who has mentored scores of young people in the ways of the natural world and protected many precious tracts of wetlands, forests, and meadows.” -- David Nolin, Former Director of Conservation, Five Rivers MetroParks