In this field-based training, participants will practice identifying herbaceous plants that typically occur in native habitat plantings for pollinators and other wildlife. Karin Jokela of Xerces Society will take us around her farm to look at several habitat plantings of various ages. Participants will be asked to train each other on how to identify at least one wildflower species, using language and tips that would be helpful for the landowners or stakeholders with whom they typically work. We will also use seed mixes for three different habitat plantings to evaluate which species have established after three, four, and five years post-planting. There will be opportunities to test knowledge gained throughout the day with quizzes and discussion. Pollinator identification and grassland management practices will be discussed throughout the field day, as well.
OBJECTIVES:
Participants will be able to:
- Identify native and weedy plants using various references
- Practice teaching plant ID techniques to each other, role-playing conversations that might occur with landowners
- Learn about how different plant materials (i.e. transplant vs. seed mixes) result in different outcomes
- Understand seed mix establishment over time in reconstructed prairie plantings
- Discuss conservation planning and management ideas for how to improve habitat for wildlife
PREREQUISITES: Tech Talk: Native Plant ID
For questions, contact Maura Curry at mcurry@pheasantsforever.org