Ecologist in Training - Let’s Botanize! Monitoring & Tracking Rare Plants

This workshop will focus on the various ways we monitor, record, and otherwise track rare and unique plants. Nantucket is host to many unique habitats and some state-listed rare species. We will go over the tools and methods used to look for, identify, track and record various plant species. Some state-listed species grow in large numbers on the LLNF property, offering the chance for participants to locate, photograph, and GPS locations. For non-rare species, we will also go over collecting samples and pressing plants. This hands-on workshop will highlight the ways LLNF uses vegetation data, the history of rare species on the property, and demonstrate the skills and tools used in this type of research and monitoring. In this workshop we will: Learn to identify rare species of concern in bloom on the landscape, how we record their location, and estimate population health. Use common tools to mark and record species observations as well as tools for sampling and pressing specimens. We will use vegetation transects and plots as well as photo-monitoring techniques to evaluate habitats and species. No previous knowledge is required. This is a partially off-trail workshop experience. This is a hands-on workshop, but attendees can participate at their own comfort level. An email with details on proper attire and other information related to this workshop will be emailed to all registered participants. Intended audience: 15+