Ferns are among the oldest plants on Earth and first appeared in the fossil record over 360 million years ago, more than two and a half times earlier than flowering plants. With over 10,500 species worldwide, ferns are a significant component of our ecosystems. Yet to many of us, including plant lovers, these ancient, non-flowering vascular species remain a mystery. Join us to enter the fascinating world of ferns. Judy Fulton will highlight the natural history, ecological importance, and characteristics of ferns and learn to identify common species in Maryland based on their appearance and the environments in which they grow.
If you would like to practice your newfound ID skills in the wild, consider registering for our combination class that features this Zoom lecture plus a hiking opportunity at Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hereford area. The hiking portion will run on July 12 at 9 am. If you would like more information or to register, click here: https://marylandnature.wildapricot.org/event-6728822. You do not need to register for this Zoom session if you register for the Zoom/hike combination trip.
Judy Fulton, founder of EcoPlant Consulting, believes healthy ecosystems are crucial for human survival. In her business, she transforms places overrun by invasives into native landscapes and shares her knowledge by speaking at workshops and as an invasive plant litigation expert in Annapolis. Judy is the president of the Maryland Native Plant Society and chair of the Maryland Invasive Species Council. She is also a board member for the Mid-Atlantic Invasive Plant Council. Judy earned a Harvard MBA and three awards from Maryland’s Top 100 Women. She has co-authored the field guide “Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas” and helped create the Mid-Atlantic Invaders Tool, an online guide to over 900 invasive species.
Registration
Levels:- Suggested Donation: $5
- Education for All: $0