Winter Tree Identification Workshop at Chapman Mountain

Identifying Trees in the winter time is often thought of as one of the more difficult skills that a naturalist can learn. However, armed with the right details and knowledge, winter tree identification is actually an approachable topic to people of all skill levels. This workshop is designed to provide you with the fundamental skills needed to identify trees without access to their leaves. It comprises a mix of seated presentations and exercises as well as field study. The two main topics that will be covered in detail are tree bud and bark identification. The workshop will mainly focus on general concepts that can be applied to any tree or woody plant that you come across in the woods. However, we will also be looking at some of the common trees that grow in North Alabama. During field study we will be doing some light hiking with stops to observe different species in the wild. Please dress to stay warm during light activity in cold weather. Please bring water and lunch. The cost for this course: $60 for non-members, and $40 for members of the Land Trust of North Alabama. If you’re not a member, please consider becoming one! Course fees will help pay for a pocket loupe, snacks and drinks, and the pocket-sized booklet Winter Tree Finder: Identifying Deciduous Trees of Eastern North America by Their Bark and Twigs, by May T. Watts and Tom Watts. In the event this hike has to be canceled due to weather, we will send a notification to the email address you used to register and postpone the event for Saturday, January 16th. Location: The Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve, 1263 U.S Hwy 72 East, Huntsville, AL 35811 (Directions: Coming from Huntsville, cross Chapman Mountain on Hwy 72 and U-turn at Moores Mill Road. When safe, get into the merge lane on the right (plenty of time). When the silver guard rail ends, be ready to turn right onto the paved entrance. Drive through the gate and down the gravel road to the parking area at the bottom of the…