Learn to identify trees without their leaves

Can you tell a white oak from a bur oak after the leaves have fallen? Identifying trees in winter is not as daunting as it may seem.

Register for the Jan. 19 class "Dendrology, or What's That Tree?"

The program is part of the Learn from the Experts series of ecology classes for adults, co-sponsored by the Kane County Forest Preserve District, St. Charles Park District and Geneva Park District.

During the two-hour program, you will learn the basics of tree identification (without leaves) and gain experience using a botanical key.

Valerie Blaine, nature programs manager with the forest preserve district, will share tips to help demystify winter tree ID and emphasize observation of bark, branches, form, habit, habitat, twigs, leaf scars and buds.

The session begins indoors with a presentation in the Nature Center. Handouts and reference material will be provided. During the second hour, the class will head outside to practice tree identification skills.

Registration for "Dendrology, or What's that Tree?" is $5 per person. Call (847) 741-8350, ext. 10, to register.

Tekakwitha Woods is at 35W076 Villa Maria Road, off Route 25, one mile north of Army Trail Road in St. Charles. For details on Tekakwitha Woods, the Nature Center, or other forest preserve district programs, visit www.kaneforest.com.