Bare Tree ID with Nick Spero

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Field Experiences Field Trips Open to the Public

Identifying deciduous trees without leaves as a reference can be a challenge, even to the expert. Relying on bark and tree shape, let’s look for those subtle differences with tree expert Nick Spero. For the second of this two-part series, we will take it up a notch from our first outing (Oct 27), where we could rely on leaves to help us ID. Are you up to the challenge? Separate registration is required for the October date: Info here: https://marylandnature.wildapricot.org/event-5890333.

Get to know your guide: Nick Spero loves to hunt and fish, and primitive technology has piqued his interest since he was a child. You can view a video produced by NPR about Nick here.

Nick, like most of the other people who lead NHSM field trips, is a volunteer, so your money will go directly to support the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Donate or become a member of the Natural History Society of Maryland by visiting https://marylandnature.org/support-maryland-nature/.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate (low-intensity hiking)

  • Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
  • Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
  • We will be using the book, Woody Plants of Maryland by Brown and Brown, as a field guide. A few copies will be available to share. You are welcome to purchase your own, however, it is out of print and can be expensive.
  • Dress according to the weather. Layers of non-cotton clothing work best.
  • Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
  • Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and a camera with accessories.
  • Bring your reading glasses.
  • Bring binoculars and a magnifying glass or a hand lens, if you have them.
  • No pets, please.

Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.

Location

Gunpowder Falls State Park Central Area: Big Gunpowder Trail 11203 Belair Rd., Kingsville, MD