Outdoor enthusiasts will soon be heading to the hills of southeast Ohio for the seventh running of EcoThon at the Wilds. The Wilds is a non-profit conservation science and education center located a short drive southeast of Zanesville, OH. The organization owns over 9000 acres of land comprised of rolling grasslands, forested areas, lakes and wetlands. It is in this environment that their important conservation programs take place and also where EcoThon is held. The date for this year's event is Saturday, April 24.

Participants choose from a 5K or 10K trail run or a 5K trail walk. Each course is as challenging as it is beautiful taking participants along lakes, through wooded areas, and up and down several spectacular hills. EcoThon has drawn over 800 participants each year including some of Ohio's top runners, a testament to the uniqueness of the event.

By entering EcoThon, participants are helping support the Wilds important conservation mission. Entry fee includes a guided transport tour of the Wilds open-range animal areas offering views of African, Asian, and North American wildlife. Also included are a custom shirt, refreshments, door prize drawings, unique pottery awards and more.

Further information about the Wilds, EcoThon and on-line registration can be found at www.thewilds.org or by calling 740-638-2060.