The grounds of the Rieck Center are a good migrant trap; follow the trail straight behind the building to follow along the river. The lower floodplain, when passable, is always productive spring through fall. The Center is one of the few spots in Hancock County where Pileated Woodpeckers are regular, in the woodlot roughly .33 mile straight back. There are bird feeders behind the building.

The Rieck Center for Habitat Studies began as a beautiful gift. In 1972, approximately fifty-five acres of diverse habitat were graciously given to the Hancock County Humane Society by Anne Rieck. For over twenty years the facility served as a shelter to homeless animals. When the latest animal shelter was built in the city of Findlay, the Humane Society, in cooperation with The University of Findlay, developed a new focus for the unique fifty-five acres of habitat. In June 1992 it started with a new name, The Rieck Center for Habitat Studies. In 2007, the Humane Society sold the property to The University of Findlay, which continues to manage the property for education and research. The public is invited to visit the facility through membership with Friends of the Rieck Center.

The grounds are accessible to members of the Rieck Center from dawn to dusk, seven days a week, all year round. Grounds are accessible after dusk by special permission. While visiting, please stay on trails, do not pick or remove wildflowers and vegetation, and help us keep the grounds clean by taking all your trash with you when leaving.

Faculty, staff, students, and alumni of the University of Findlay are especially encouraged to make use of this special place. Student membership is free, but you must fill out a membership form. Students from other universities are also welcome as members.

Teachers are encouraged to use the facility as a field trip site and can elect to assume the role of an interpretive naturalist.