Even in winter, even without leaves, our tree friends are still present, and are each distinctive enough to be identified. In this workshop we will first look at twigs, needles, and fruit of some trees in the Education Center, and then head out and look at the bark, branching, and form unique to each species.  Special attention will also be given to traditional medicinal and cultural significance of certain species, and the stories they tell. Dress warmly, and bring a hand lens or magnifying glass if you have one.

Rich Ring is a botanist and ecologist who has worked primarily on landscape ecology, natural areas inventories, habitat requirements of breeding passerine birds, and rare plant species distribution and conservation. Previously he has pursued these interests across ridge, swale, and tussock for the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program, and the Alaska Bird Observatory. Raised in Washington County, New York, he began studying rare plant species across New York for the New York Natural Heritage Program in 2006.

Masks are recommended for entry inside the Education Center during programs.

Image credit: Rob Cardillo