Plant ID in the Field: The Indy and Woodcock Prairies at Independence Lake Park
Public Welcome Free Event Nature Walk/Hike Lots of Physical Activity
Guides: Ron Gamble and Faye Stoner
On this walk we will cover basic plant ID skills (e.g., Are the leaves arranged opposite each other along the stem or in alternate positions? Do the leaves have a simple (single) or compound form? Are the leaf edges rounded or squared?), and we will practice these skills as we look at plants found in this lovely remnant prairie. Plants found in the prairie this time of year include Tall Coreopsis, Yellow Coneflower, Mountain Mint, Early Goldenrod, and Prairie Loosestrife; there will be many more species to see!
About Our Guides
Faye Stoner grew up in western Pennsylvania, but has been in Michigan for over 30 years. She worked as a naturalist for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks and for Washtenaw County Parks.
Ron Gamble was raised in central Iowa (what he calls “the real Midwest”). His father was a veterinarian who had a wide-ranging interest in natural sciences of all kinds, which Ron inherited. Ron has a B.S. from Iowa State University and an M.S. from University of Michigan. His career has included employment at University of Michigan in the Great Lakes Research Division, and he is now retired from an environmental engineering career at Ford Motor Company and Visteon Corporation. Ron has worked part-time for Huron-Clinton Metroparks, and he remains active in natural resources community support.
BE PREPARED FOR BUGS!
Depending on the weather, there may be ticks, mosquitoes, and chiggers. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks, etc., and bring your favorite repellent.
ENTRANCE FEE AND PARKING at Independence Lake Park
Daily Admission, per Vehicle: Washtenaw County residents: $6 ($3 for Seniors); Others: $10 ($6 for Seniors)
Where to Park and Meet: Please park at the east end of the Beach Center parking lot (about one mile in from Jennings Road; it is the first left after the Blue Heron Bay parking lot). Watch for a large lime green vertical banner to find our group. The first section of the prairie is about an eight-minute walk from there.