Ferns: Debutantes of the Vascular Society is a three part class consisting of a morning outdoor classroom presentation,  an afternoon Field Study, followed by numerous Pop-Up Walks/Hikes during the year. The first two parts will be presented on Saturday, May 17  from 9:00 to 3:00ish.

Topics covered in the classroom will include Fern: Evolution, Characteristics, Anatomy, Life Cycle, and Identification of Ferns common to Garland and Montgomery counties.

The morning classroom presentation will be held at the Crystal Springs Church Arbor, Crystal Springs Recreation Area, 1130 N. Crystal Springs Rd from 9:00 to 11:30.This will be a different classroom setting for DLAMNers.  We will be outdoors in a covered pavilion with bench seating immediately adjacent to the LOViT Trail. The perfect venue for Master Naturalists. The class will break for travel time to the field study area and lunch from 11:30 to 12:15. The field study will start at the Walnut Creek low water bridge on Forest Service Rd 47. The Field Study will be several short, moderately easy walks totaling approximately 1 mile off FS 47. The terrain will be fairly even and flat. There will be wet areas along the way. During the walk, the class will identify  a  number of common ferns of Garland and Montgomery counties.

Bonus Hike: At the end of the field study, an optional Bonus Hike will be offered for those interested. We will hike a short segment of the LOViT Trail from the field study area back to the classroom location. The hike is approximately 2.0 miles and is moderately difficult.

You will need to bring a drink, lunch/snack, and insect repellant. Also, wear appropriate footwear for hiking/walking off trail.

Directions: From the intersection of Hwy 270 West and the Mountain Pine Rd, travel west for 13 miles, turn right onto North Crystal Springs Rd for 1.8 miles, the Church Arbor is on your left just 50 yards past the intersection with Forest Service Rd 47 (Hickorynut Mt. Rd).