Take a Native Plant Master® course and discover Colorado wildflowers, trees and shrubs as you explore trails in this natural area. During three outdoor field sessions, you will learn common and scientific names, ecological relationships and human uses of 40 - 50 plants. You will also develop skills in using family features and a botanical key to identify plants. Course includes special emphasis on natives useful for landscaping and alien invasives that threaten native ecosystems.
Instructor: Jean… Show more Nelson is a Native of Colorado. Camping, fishing and hiking in the West since she was a child has created an appreciation for the fauna and flora of our region. A banker by profession she enjoys volunteering and sharing her knowledge and observations with others. 2013 will be Jean's 4th year teaching Native Plant Master courses.
Registration: Course size is limited, so register early.
Prerequisite: Basic Botany Class is recommended for those who would like to refresh their botanical knowledge and is required for those who have minimal background in botany. Contact yhuang@jeffco.us for questions.
Native Plant Master: All participants who pass three NPM courses will receive a Colorado Flora Certificate. For accepted volunteers, this course counts toward certification as a Native Plant Master. For more information on the volunteer program, see www.conativeplantmaster.org . To reduce overlap, take courses in different months and/or lifezones.
Lifezone: Foothills
Required Textbook/Reference: Colorado Flora - Eastern Slope, Fourth edition, Weber and Wittmann and Colorado Plant Database at http://coloradoplants.jeffco.us .
When/Where to meet: Meet first time at 8:10 AM at Mt. Falcon Open Space Park parking lot. Course begins 8:30 AM sharp.
What to bring: Textbook, pencil, hand lens (approximately 10x), daypack, water, sack lunch, rain gear, sun and wind protection, personal items you will need on the trail where there are no restrooms, etc.
What to wear: Layered clothing for changing and/or severe weather conditions, sturdy footwear, hat, etc. Please come prepared for moderately strenuous walking on hot, cold, windy, rainy or snowy days.
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