Natural History Society of Maryland
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Explore Biodiversity - Winter Broadleaf Forest

When
15 Mar 2025
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Location
Gunpowder Falls State Park Sweet Air Area
Spaces left
0

Registration

(depends on selected options)

Base fee:

NHSM Member – $20.00
Non Member – $25.00

Registration is closed

Explore the late-winter flora and fauna of a temperate broadleaf forest with veteran naturalists Joyce Browning and Dave Webb. We’ll be looking both up and down as we explore the biodiversity found here, including identifying trees using bark, buds, and dehiscent seed pods. Bird sightings may include fox sparrow, yellow-bellied sapsucker, pine warbler, and hermit thrush. And searching downward, we’ll grub for overwintering arthropods, including beetles, woodlice, and the lesser-known symphylans and pauropods. This leisurely paced hike will feature plenty of opportunities to stop and smell the pine cones.

Joyce Browning is the recently retired Master Gardener Coordinator for Harford County, a position that she held for 17 years. Covering topics in ecology, botany, entomology, and composting, the Master Gardener program teaches citizens about sustainable agricultural practices. Joyce hosted a series of educational videos entitled Garden of Weedin’ to keep in touch with the Master Gardener volunteers she led. An enthusiastic lover of the outdoors, she continues to actively coach youth horticulture in 4-H and Future Farmers of America programs.

Dave Webb is an editor with the Maryland Biodiversity Project, an online community of naturalists dedicated to cataloging the flora and fauna of Maryland. A birder for over 35 years, Dave shifted his focus about 10 years ago to include insects (especially moths and other nocturnal arthropods), terrestrial isopods, and the arthropods that exploit cattails.

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.
Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle mud and slippery surfaces.
Bring water, snacks, and if wanted, a camera with accessories.
Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe if you have them.
Bring your guidebooks if you have them.
Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
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.

The Natural History Society of Maryland is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and contributions are tax-deductible.

The mission of the Natural History Society of Maryland is to foster stewardship of Maryland’s natural heritage by conserving its natural history collections, educating its citizenry, and inspiring its youth to pursue careers in the natural sciences.