Appalachian Forest Ecology and Tree Identification

$85 for Members and Students Limited to 12 participants Click here to register! Appalachian forests provide important habitat for wildlife and people alike. Here, we take a closer look at trees and the forest community. Together we will explore the diversity and ecology of Appalachian trees and shrubs of Hawk Mountain in this full-day workshop. Designed for the beginning naturalist, curious nature enthusiast, or interested student, Kutztown University professor Dr. Chris Sacchi and HMS science staff will share how to identify common trees and shrubs of Appalachians, and how to understand and measure trees, tree seedlings, and their communities. The workshop will take place at Hawk Mountain and compare trees found on ridges to those in valleys. Join us to learn your Appalachian trees and foster a new appreciation for their interesting ecology! The workshop will be primarily outside with short forays into the forest. The morning will be spent learning how to identify trees and plants in the forest, while in the afternoon we will explore the forest community and learn how ecologists study or measure forest communities. Bring your own lunch for a midday lunch break. This course is part of Hawk Mountain's Appalachian Ecology Institute workshop series, featuring 1-to-4-day field-oriented workshops that are designed for the amateur or professional naturalist (ages 18+) who are interested in learning more about the natural history and ecology of the central Appalachians. Certificates of completion and a course manual will be provided to all attendees. No experience is required, other than ability and gear for hiking rocky terrain on Hawk Mountain trails. Scholarship opportunities are available via our IDEA Fund, click here to apply. Courses are Act 48 eligible. Contact Laurie Goodrich at goodrich@hawkmountain.org or Rebecca McCabe mccabe@hawkmountain.org to inquire.