March is here. Longer days. More light. A shift in the air. This is your moment to step forward, not by rushing, but by moving with purpose. Small, steady actions add up. Let's walk into this season ready.

Daylight Savings

March 8, 2026 at 2:00 a.m. (clocks spring forward to 3:00 a.m.)

Do not dread the lost hour, own it. A little planning now means you will hit the ground running come Sunday morning.

• Protect what matters: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms while you are changing clocks. Two minutes today means peace of mind all year long.
• Outsmart the shift: Move bedtime 15-20 minutes earlier starting a few days ahead. Your body will thank you when Monday morning rolls around
• Reset with light: Step outside for early morning sunlight right after waking. It is nature's caffeine, free and instantly effective
• Stay ahead: Update manual clocks on Saturday so you are not scrambling. Walk into Sunday ready to enjoy that extra daylight

Plan Your Outdoor Garden Now

Stop waiting for warm weather and start creating it. While winter still lingers, you have the power to build the garden you will be bragging about in June.

• Plan with purpose: Sketch a simple garden layout now. Map out your square inches, companion plants, and walk into spring with a clear plan instead of guesswork
• Get ahead of the season: Start these seeds indoors now so they are strong and ready the moment the ground warms: Onions, leeks, pansies, broccoli, cabbage, kale, petunias, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, marigolds, zinnias, and herbs
• Tap into local expertise: Let's Grow Akron has the resources you need to succeed: Garden planning help, composting guidance, and monthly activities for all ages. Grab a spot, bring a friend, and get your hands dirty. This is where it starts.

Mark your calendar:

• Seed Starting Class: March 5th, includes free seeds!
• Building Birdhouse Boxes Workshop: March 19th
  

National Nutrition Month

Created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, this month is a chance to focus on how you fuel your body and move through your days on your own terms.

• Find what works for you: Visit eatright.org for simple, practical ideas that fit your life
• Take it outside: Our local trails are ready whenever you are
  • Springfield Bog
  • Jedd Park
  • Spartan Trail and Exercise Area
• Move in a way that feels good: Walk, stretch, hike, or just breathe in the fresh air. Bring a friend or enjoy the quiet on your own.
  

Spring Cleaning

This is not about perfection. It is about refreshing your space in a way that feels manageable and kind.

Four areas that make a difference:

1. Let the light in: Clean windowsills and tracks with a vacuum or damp cloth
2. Breathe easier: Replace HVAC filters and vacuum vents and registers
3. Welcome warmer days: Tidy the entryway, swap winter gear for spring items
4. Care for outdoor spaces: On a dry day, clear gutters and wash furniture with mild soapy water

Gentle cleaning tips to carry with you:

• Top to bottom: Start high and let dust fall where it may. You will catch it later
• Dry before wet: Vacuum first, then wipe. It makes less mess, not more
• Declutter with intention: Donate what you no longer need. Let someone else find joy in it
• Rest on purpose: Try the 20/10 rule: clean for 20 minutes, then rest for 10. Small bursts add up

Ohio Burn Ban Notice

In effect statewide: March 1 - May 31

This regulation exists to protect our shared spaces: the fields, woods, and neighborhoods we all call home.

• Burning yard waste, trash, and debris is prohibited
• This includes burning in barrels, fire pits, and fire rings
• No open burning from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Get March Ready. You’ve got this!