Fern Identification and Ecology for Conservationists
with Randall Stone, Pioneer Valley Fern Society

This introduction to ferns will be helpful and informative for anyone interested in fern identification.  With an emphasis on ferns and hydrology it should be especially useful to conservation commissioners.  Come explore the woodland trails at the Fruitlands Museum and learn to identify the most common ferns of our area.  An indoor lab session will cover basic fern biology, identification techniques, and ecology, and the field session will provide simple and easy methods for positive field identification.  We will also observe the changes in fern species composition along the hydrologic gradient, and review the status of designated species as wetland indicators.  Please bring a hand lens if you have one.  Please bring a lunch and water bottle, and you’re encouraged to dress defensively (for mosquitoes and ticks).
Check-in: 9:45 a.m. Class 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. MACC members $50, Fruitlands Member $65, Non-members $80, Full-time students $35