Ferns of New York: Identification, Biology, and Ecology

Dr. James (Eddie) Watkins, Professor of Biology at Colgate University and Past President of the American Fern Society

Friday, June 20, 10 am – Saturday, June 21, around 3 pm

What: This workshop will cover multiple aspects of the biology of ferns, from the morphology of spores, gametophytes, and sporophytes to taxonomy and identification of the most common species in the central NY region.  It is for beginners and experts alike. Ferns are often perceived as a difficult group to identify. However, with a basic understanding of fern biology and morphology, most people will find fern identification fairly straight forward. We will spend considerable time on the more difficult woodferns (Dryopteris) and participants should walk away with increased confidence in identification of all native species and several of the common hybrids. The experience will include both field and indoor “lab work” using microscopes.

Where: Over the course of this two-day workshop, we start our workshop at Clark Reservation State Park near Syracuse; we will also likely visit Nelson Swamp in Cazenovia, and possibly one additional swamp location. Lab/classroom work will take place at Colgate University. To really get to know the biology and ecology of our native ferns, we need to get wet and muddy! Be prepared for traipsing through some wetlands – if the weather has been rainy, many of these sites will be quite wet. Be aware that at one place the hike goes over talus/loose terrain. Lunch is on your own both days.

Accommodations: Participants are expected to make their own arrangements for overnight on Friday.

Cost: The workshop fee is $120 for NYFA members and students; $150 for non-members. Participants are encouraged to become NYFA members. The cost for the workshop includes the entire weekend instructional program, lab space, microscope use.  Meals are not included.

Registration: Participation is limited so please sign up early (see below).

Inquiries: For questions please contact ferns@nyflora.org

NYFA Cancellation Policy: The workshop fee, minus a $20 processing fee, is refundable up to four weeks prior to the start of the workshop. No refunds for cancellations within four weeks of the start of the workshop. Alternatively, the registrant may opt to apply 50% of the fee to a future NYFA workshop to be offered in the same or following year. There will be a full refund if NYFA needs to cancel the workshop.

To Pay by Check: Download this Form

Limited Scholarships Are Available: For details and to apply download and submit this form.  We will process your application, and respond soon.  If approved you will be sent a code to use, when you go back and register for the trip.

NYFA relies on the generous support of its members to offer free Field Trips and Learn 10 workshops. If you are able, please consider a donation to help support these efforts. Suggested Donation is $10.