Learn how to invasive trees or shrubs at next 'Spirt of Conservation' workshop
It's a tree, it's a shrub, but what IS it? Do I want it in my natural area? Dr. Tom Simpson, a research field station ecologist, will help you answer those questions and more through McHenry County Conservation District's next "Spirit of Conservation" workshop, "Identification of Trees and Shrubs," from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at Pioneer Road Landing in Glacial Park, 7300 Pioneer Road, Richmond.
Trees and shrubs made up an important part of the vegetation of McHenry County prior to European contact, and many of our native plants and animals are dependent on forest, woodland, and savanna ecosystems. Exotic and invasive woody plants have been among the most troublesome weeds of natural areas, and removing them is an important part of restoration. For this reason, telling the difference between invasive species and native species is critical to success.
The "Spirit of Conservation" program combines educational activities with land stewardship volunteer activities. Each day will involve hands-on field work, learning, conversation, a brown bag-it lunch and review of the day's activities. On Oct. 10, the work activity will be seed collection.
Anyone age 16 and older interested in learning about ecological restoration and the spirit of conservation today is invited to join. The programs are free and open to the general public, existing land stewards, and other volunteers. All they ask for is your attention, your work, and your conversation.
The Nov. 14 workshop will be "Ecological Restoration" with Simpson at Pioneer Landing. Ecological restoration is a response to the scientific understanding of nature and how it is changing, but it is also a response to how you understand your relationship to the land. What value do native plants and animals and ecosystems like prairies and oak savannas have to modern people? These and other similar questions will shape the future of conservation. The work activity will be removing invasive woody vegetation.
Bring gloves and eye protection if you have it. Wear sturdy footwear and clothing appropriate for outdoor work and weather conditions. Bring a sack lunch and something to drink. RSVP prior to each date is requested; contact Tom Simpson at tsimpson@mccdistrict.org or (815) 678-4532, ext. 8218.