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Advanced Summer Prairie Plant Identification

Go beyond the basics and improve your ability to identify the diverse and beautiful plants of the tallgrass prairie.

Content Detail

Prairies in summer are at the peak of their bloom and color, with hundreds of species of wildflowers and grasses showing their distinctive beauty. Increase the number of plants you can confidently identify, and begin to learn the specialized features and vocabulary to identify challenging groups such as the aster family, as well as the grasses, rushes, and sedges in this advanced plant ID course.

This workshop consists of an intensive, hands-on approach to identifying prairie plants in the field. We’ll discuss their ecology, point out key features and distinctions, and practice identifying species using keys. This class is held entirely outdoors. Come prepared to walk on uneven terrain.

This program meets in person at the Arboretum.

Instructor: Nathanael Pilla, botanist and ecologist, Midwest Biological Survey

Continuing Education: This class fulfills a requirement for the Natural Areas Conservation Training (N-ACT) Program. Learn more about N-ACT.

Age: 16 and older

Course number: S320

Nathanael Pilla, botanist and ecologist, Midwest Biological Survey

Nathanael Pilla is a charismatic botanist who is experienced in botanical research and identification, has trained and led wetland restoration crews, interns, and volunteers, and is broadly engaged in environmental outreach and stewardship. Previously with Orbis Environmental Consulting, he currently leads his own environmental consulting company, Midwest Biological Survey. Pilla also serves on the Chicago Wilderness Steering Committee and is an adjunct professor at the University of Notre Dame. He recently co-authored the book, Wildflowers of the Indiana Dunes National Park, which was published through Indiana University Press. When he is not botanizing, he spends his time writing and singing ridiculous songs.

What to Know

Held entirely outdoors. Please dress for the weather. Wear long sleeves and pants, sun protection, close-toed shoes with good traction, and rain gear if needed.

Bring a sack lunch, snack, and water. Sunscreen and insect repellent may come in handy.

Your favorite field guide and a hand lens will be useful.

Prior experience with plant identification is required.

Program Schedule

Thursday, September 7, 2023, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Prairie Visitor Station

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