Learn how plants impact our lives

From ginseng to gin and timber to turpentine, plants and plant products have impacted humans over thousands of years.

"Ethnobotany" is the study of plants in human culture. Find out more during the Learn from the Experts program from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve, 35W076 Villa Maria Road, off Route 25, St. Charles.

Valerie Blaine, nature programs manager for the Kane County Forest Preserve District, will lead the three-hour course that explores the origins of ethnobotany and investigates the intricate relationship we humans have with the green growing things around us.

"The first portion of the class will be held indoors and will include an interactive discussion on plants in our culture. During the second part of the class, we will head outdoors for a hike and trailside activities," Blaine said.

"Everyone will have a chance to tap a maple tree, find pharmaceuticals, search for aphrodisiacs and other fun stuff."

Learn from the Experts programs feature various topics in local ecology. The adults-only workshops are co-sponsored by the Kane County Forest Preserve District and St. Charles, Geneva, and Fox Valley park districts. Attendees are eligible for Kane County Certified Naturalist credit.

Registration for Ethnobotany is $10. Call (847) 741-8350, ext. 10, to register. For details on this or other Learn from the Experts programs, visit www.kaneforest.com.