Congratulations on persevering through that unseasonal winter. Finally, we’ve made it to skunk cabbage season! But, does it still seem too early for wildflowers in Maryland? Surprisingly, no. The Eastern Skunk Cabbage has evolved many traits over the last 72,000 years, and blooming in cold weather is only one of many abilities that make it unique in the plant world. Join us for a hike to learn more about how this remarkable plant has adapted to life in our wetlands with ecologist John Canoles. We’ll also bird to look for wintering guests and local residents and learn about native and invasive plants we see along the way.
Be prepared for cold weather, mud, and soggy conditions. We will manage our footsteps around the area to leave limited traces of our admiring presence. Hiking poles can help with stability in mucky areas. Hiking distance should be one to two miles.
John Canoles is an ecologist who focuses on the identification and assessment of natural resources and the creation of natural upland and wetland habitats. He is also involved in nature education, having helped design the nature walk and Butterfly House at Ladew Gardens and the Accessible Trail at Cromwell Valley Park, and has taught “Introduction of Birdwatching” classes for Johns Hopkins Odyssey Program, Community College of Baltimore County, and Cromwell Valley Park. John also writes a monthly Nature Notes column for the Baltimore County Country Chronicle newspaper. He is a member of the Harford Bird Club and the Harford County Land Trust and is on the board of Trustees for Ladew Topiary Gardens.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is completed.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email sent a few days before the date.
- All participants must be pre-registered. If you are on the waitlist and show up to the event uninvited, you will not be allowed to participate.
- Children over the age of 12 are welcome.
- All children must meet age requirements and be registered as a guest of their adult.
- 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 or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water and snacks.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $25 or less are non-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.
Registration
Levels:-
NHSM Member: $20
Guest names must be listed on your family membership to qualify for this discount. Extra adults with individual memberships should register independently. - Non Member: $25