Jon Shaw, Sean Robinson and Tom Phillips are all long-time devotees of bryophytes.

Jon is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Duke University.  Dr. Shaw’s research is on the systematics, population genetics, and evolution of bryophytes (mosses). His current focus is the evolution of peat mosses (Sphagnum).

Sean Robinson is a bryologist and Associate Professor of Biology at SUNY Oneonta and has been awarded a Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.  Dr. Robinson has conducted research in the areas of bryophyte ecology, population genetics, and systematics.

Tom Phillips is a retired veterinary doctor.  Dr. Phillips now spends much of his time studying bryophytes throughout NYS and beyond.  The three make an incredible team and we are pleased to offer this workshop that will provide beginners a field-based introduction to macroscopic features and ecological diversity of NYS’s Sphagnum species.

Saturday, June 7th | 10 am – 4 pm.

Join us for a one-day workshop focused on the Sphagnum species found at Zurich Bog.  This workshop will be conducted solely in the field and will provide an introduction to the wonders of Sphagnum.  Identification of Sphagnum species often relies on microscopic examination of leaves and cellular structure.  In this workshop we will use macroscopic features and ecological diversity to puzzle out this fascinating and important group of plants.  The three instructors have decades of professional experience working with Sphagnum mosses and teaching bryophyte identification. 

Zurich Bog is a very interesting wetland nestled within a drumlin swarm in Wayne County in central NY.  Because of its underlying bedrock and the materials within the surrounding drumlins, Zurich Bog pH varies from acidic to basic and it exhibits traits of both bogs and fens.  Sphagnum and other bryophytes, as well as other plants, are responsive to changes in pH leading to high species diversity.

Participants will be provided with meet up information and suggested gear prior to the workshop.

The workshop fee is $35 for NYFA members and students; $50 for non-members. Participants are encouraged to become NYFA members.

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

 For questions please contact mosses@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.

David Werier, Botanist

Start: Thursday, June 12th, 6:00 pm

End: Sunday, June 15th, around 3:00 pm

What:  Sedges are one the most diverse families of plants in the flora of New York, making up over 9% of the vascular plant species known from the state. Most are native to the state, while a few are nonnative, including a number of highly invasive species. They grow in uplands and wetlands, from the tops of the highest mountains to sea level, and in essentially all habitats in the state. Some are restricted to highly intact natural areas while others grow in degraded habitats. There are species that are dominant in certain ecological communities and others that are rare in the state. Because they can look superficially similar to each other and some are small and nondescript, people often avoid trying to identify them. Yet many can relatively easily be identified, once one pays attention. And even the species that are very similar to each other, can be differentiated once one knows what to look for. Learning to differentiate the members of this diverse group of plants can enhance a persons understanding and appreciation of all the plants that grow around them.

This workshop will focus on the identification and ecology of sedges that occur in New York with a focus on early season species, particularly members of the genus Carex. We will spend time in the field and lab, where access to dissecting microscopes will make examination of the small floral structures easier. This workshop is for all levels. There will be a review of sedge morphology and time for self or group study of specimens that will be supplied and/or that students bring. The field excursions will mostly be at a slow-paced walk, with frequent stops, but there will be some hills.

Who: David Werier is a student of the flora of New York. He is the author of the Catalogue of the Vascular Plants of New York State and has recently been working on a treatment of the sedges of New York. His passion centers on understanding and becoming familiar with all the vascular plant species that occur in the state and enjoys sharing that knowledge with those that are interested. He has taught numerous workshops on different taxonomic groups including sedges. His intention for the workshop is that participants will walk away with the knowledge and skills to readily identify the sedges they encounter in New York and beyond.

When and Where: This workshop will take place from Thursday June 12 at 6 pm to Sunday the 15th in the afternoon (about 3 pm). It will be based out of the Bailey Hortorium Herbarium at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York (Tompkins Co.) and we will travel to various sites in the Ithaca area for field work.

Cost: The workshop fee is $250 for NYFA members and students; $280 for non-members. Participants are encouraged to become NYFA members. The cost for the workshop includes the entire weekend instructional program, lab space, and dinner at a restaurant in Ithaca on Friday and Saturday. Other meals, housing, and parking fees are not included.

Registration: Participation is limited so please sign up early.  This workshop is co-sponsored by NYFA and the Bailey Hortorium.

Inquiries:  For questions please contact sedges@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.

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.

David DuBois, Director of Stewardship at Baltimore Woods Nature Center

Sunday July 27th | 9 am – 4 pm

What: Knowing plant families is an extremely useful way of organizing plant information, and allows you to put names to more of the plants you see. This workshop is aimed at intermediate botanists who know some plants and are looking to gain a deeper understanding of the plants in the state by learning how species relate to each other. This workshop will spend time learning the common features of some of the most abundant plant families in the state and give participants the skills to field identify the family of approximately half of the species in the state. We will also spend some time working on keying and translating knowing families into learning species. This workshop will have a morning classroom portion and an afternoon field portion.

Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center in Marcellus NY.

Cost: Workshop fee is $30 for NYFA members and students, and $50 for nonmembers.

Registration and Inquiries:  Participation is limited – please sign up early,  For questions please contact plantfamilies@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.

Becky Sibner | Forest Health Specialist, NYS Parks

Sunday, April 13th | 10 am – 1 pm

Join us in a beginner’s course to Learn 10 species of trees – without leaves! Anyone interested in learning about tree ID and general plant ID skills is encouraged to participate; no prior botanical training is necessary. Instruction will cover important characteristics to ID such as branch and leaf arrangement, bark, twigs, buds, flowers, growth habit, and habitat, leaving participants prepared to start identifying trees and other woody plants on their own.

The route is over moderate terrain. Participants should be prepared with sturdy shoes, water, and snacks. Bring a tree guide and hand lens if you have one.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email poestenkill@nyflora.org.

All NYFA Learn 10 workshops are free and open to all.

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.

Steven Daniel, Botanist and Naturalist

Sunday, June 2nd | 9 am – 10:15 am

NYFA is offering this “Learn 10” In partnership with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. There is no preregistration for this program but all participants must register online for the Pilgrimage at the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage website. https://www.alleganynaturepilgrimage.com/

An introduction to these fascinating, yet maligned, groups of plants, that have an undeserved reputation for being difficult, if not impossible to learn. So we will “Learn 10” graminoids. and it shouldn’t be too painful! “Learn 10” is a program begun by the New York Flora Association to help make various groups of plants accessible to non-botanists. Bring a hand lens or magnifying glass if you have one.

 If you have any questions feel free to contact us at anp@nyflora.org.

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.

Dan Spada, President of the New York Flora Association

Saturday, June 22nd | 1 pm – 4:30 pm

The NY Flora Association and Adirondack Land Trust are collaborating to present a botanical training program pioneered by the NYFA. Join botanist Dan Spada for this program designed to help anyone of any level of expertise who is interested in plant identification to identify tree species in a relaxed and supportive way. We will spend our time acquiring the tools necessary to correctly identify trees primarily during the growing season. We will focus on common Adirondack species.

Participants can expect to slowly cover a couple miles at the most. The terrain is mostly level but includes some slopes. Be prepared with hiking footwear, rain gear, snacks and adequate water. Assume there are ticks and biting insects so be prepared to repel them. A handlens would be useful.

Meet up location will be provided to registrants prior to the date.  We will plan to return to the vehicles by 4:30pm.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email glenview@nyflora.org.

All NYFA Learn 10 workshops are free and open to all.

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.

Marshall Lefebvre | Stewardship Director, MHLC

Saturday, July 26th | 10 am – 12 pm

Join Marshall Lefebvre, Stewardship Director for the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy, at the beautiful Hollyhock Hollow Sanctuary to explore the wide and wonderful world of summer wildflowers!

The “Learn 10” series is a learning-focused approach to familiarizing participants with the various tools and guides available to them. Participants will be taught how to use keys and field guides, and will leave the event having learned (at least) 10 new summer wildflowers!

Participants can expect to slowly cover a couple miles at the most. Be prepared with hiking footwear, snacks, and adequate water.

This event is held in collaboration with the MHLC. Click here to register.

All NYFA Learn 10 workshops are free and open to all.

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.

Steve Young and Laura Lehtonen, Botanists studying the flora of the Capital District

Tuesday, August 19 | 9:00 am – noon

Grasses and grass-like plants are perceived as a difficult group to learn because the flower parts are so small and unusual. 

We will take a walk at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve and spend some time in the classroom to learn the tricks of the trade when it comes to correctly identifying grasses. We will focus on ten common New York species, look at actual specimens in the field, and learn the features that will help you distinguish one species from all others.  (Chances are that we’ll probably mention a few other interesting plants along the way.) You don’t have to be any kind of plant expert to participate, and sessions will be relaxed and supportive.

“Learn 10…” is a program of the NY Flora Association (NYFA) designed to help people of all ages and levels of knowledge begin learning the plants of New York. “Learn 10…” focuses on a group of only ten plants to teach simple techniques for easily identifying any plant or, in this case, the important asters and goldenrods of late summer. “Learn 10…” is a fun and interactive way to learn plants and develop a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email learn10grasses@nyflora.org.

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.

Dan Spada

Saturday, August 23, 1 – 4:30 pm

The NY Flora Association and Mountain Top Arboretum are collaborating to present a botanical training program pioneered by the NYFA.  This is a beginner’s course on how to identify 10 native shrub species using keys, guides and their senses during a combination of lab and field sessions. Instruction will be provided on the use of keys and guides as well as field signs to be able to native shrubs identify shrubs. 

Most walking will be on trails so appropriate footwear should be used. Be prepared with snacks, adequate water, and sunscreen and appropriate clothing for the forecast. Ticks may be present so be prepared to repel. A handlens would be useful.

Mountain Top is doing the registration for this trip.  Please go to   https://www.tickettailor.com/events/mountaintoparboretum/1564778  if you want to register.  If you have any questions about the trip before registering, contact mountaintop@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.  If you’d like to make a donation to NYFA please click here

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.

Steve Young and Laura Lehtonen, Botanists studying the flora of the Capital District

Tuesday, September 23 | 9:00 am – noon

The many asters and goldenrods found in the Albany Pine Bush this time of year can be difficult to identify to species. 

We will first spend some time in the classroom and then take a walk at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve to find out what makes an aster an aster and a goldenrod a goldenrod. We will focus on ten common species, look at actual specimens in the field, and learn the features that will help you distinguish one species from all others. (Chances are that we’ll probably mention a few other interesting plants along the way.) You don’t have to be any kind of plant expert to participate, and sessions will be relaxed and supportive.

“Learn 10…” is a program of the NY Flora Association (NYFA) designed to help people of all ages and levels of knowledge begin learning the plants of New York. “Learn 10…” focuses on a group of only ten plants to teach simple techniques for easily identifying any plant or, in this case, the important asters and goldenrods of late summer. “Learn 10…” is a fun and interactive way to learn plants and develop a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email learn10asters@nyflora.org.

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.

James Lendemer | Curator of Botany, NYSM

Saturday, October 11th | 10 am – 12 pm

Join us in a beginner’s course to Learn 10 species of lichens! Anyone interested in learning about lichens is encouraged to participate; no prior training is necessary. 

The route is over moderate terrain. Participants should be prepared with sturdy shoes, water, and snacks. Bring a hand lens if you have one.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email lichens@nyflora.org.

All NYFA Learn 10 workshops are free and open to all.

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.

Anna Stalter and Peter Fraissinet are curators at BH.

Saturday, March 22nd |  1 pm – 4 pm

THE LIBERTY HYDE BAILEY HORTORIUM HERBARIUM (BH) at Cornell University is one of the largest university-affiliated collections of preserved plant material in North America.  Established over 150 years ago, the collection now houses close to 1,000,000 specimens from all over the world.

More than 10% of these are of native or naturalized species collected within NY state, many serving as vouchers for two historic floras of the Cayuga Lake basin and for Werier’s 2017 Catalogue of the Vascular Plants of New York State.

We’ll talk about the history and use of the herbarium over the years, and how modern approaches and techniques are being used to answer novel research questions.                                                                                                                                      

We’ll also provide hands-on instruction for collecting, documenting and submitting voucher specimens to BH or other herbaria. 

This tour is cosponsored by the Finger Lakes Native Plant Society.

If you have any questions about the tour before registering,  please email bailey@nyflora.org.

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.

Rachel Schultz, Botanist, SUNY Brockport

Sunday, April 27th | 11 am – 1 pm

Join us for a spring wildflower walk along the Devil’s Nose Trail at Hamlin Beach State Park. This easy hike will take us into a woodland along a Lake Ontario cliff where we will observe early blooming wildflowers, including Hepatica species, blue cohosh, wild onions, among other native spring ephemerals. We have a good chance to see the unusual flowers of the locally rare leatherwood, of which nice specimens grow in this woodland.  The trail includes some uneven terrain and gentle slopes, offering a rewarding botanical experience along the Lake Ontario shoreline. We suggest that you wear hiking boots and to dress appropriately for the weather.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email hamlin@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

David DuBois, Director of Stewardship at Baltimore Woods Nature Center

Sunday, May 4th | 12 pm – 3:30 pm

The Rand Tract is a park owned by the city of Syracuse on the west side of Onondaga Valley. This valley is carved into the Onondaga limestone where the rich soils support a wonderful diversity of spring wildflowers. On the high side of the park some limestone ledges are exposed, and there is a section of limestone talus slope. The most spectacular community in the park is the old growth forest midway up the slope with a nice diversity of mature canopy trees and a profusion of understory herbs. This trip will cover about 1.5 miles of trail and about 300 feet of elevation gain.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email randramble@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Rich Ring, Chief Botanist, New York State Natural Heritage

Saturday, May 10th | 10 am – 2 pm

Join us in exploring the very aptly named Deep  Notch (sometimes called West Kill Notch) in Greene County.  The notch has a variety of  typical cool site species such as Mountain Maple, Swamp Red Currant, Red Elder, and others, and we will spend time with early woodland wildflowers as well. We’ll also also be keeping our eyes peeled  for two rarer species that  were collected from the Notch about a century ago — musk root (Adoxa moschellatina), and Braun’s Holly Fern (Polystichum braunii). There is  a luxurious bryothyte layer in many areas – perhaps you can  teach the trip leader some of those!

We may not be hiking very far, but will do some possibly challenging exploring off-trail.  The sides of the notch are steep as well as deep, and sometimes made up of loose talus, which makes it difficult to get around. So wear good ankle protection, and bring hiking poles or whatever else you use for such places.  Dress for the cool air seeping up from the talus, and bring lunch, water, and snacks.

Information on parking/meeting spots will be provided closer to the date.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email deepnotch@nyflora.org.   All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Steve Young, former chief botanist for the NY Natural Heritage Program who continues to study the state flora, mostly in the Adirondacks, the Capital District, and Long Island.

Saturday, May 17. 10 am – 4 pm

Explore the spring wildflowers, ferns, and big trees of a woodland along the upper Hudson River in the morning and the rare plants of a riverside ice meadow in the afternoon. We will meet and start the trips at the fish hatchery near Warrensburg and have a lunch in the pavilion between walks. We should be able to make a nice long plant list and maybe even see some remnant ice in protected spots. The walking is level with some larger cobbles along the river.

This is a joint trip with the Adirondack Botanical Society.

Additional trip details will be sent to registrants in advance of the trip.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, contact icemeadows@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.  If you’d like to make a donation to NYFA please click here

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.

Chris Graham is an Assistant Ecologist at the New York Natural Heritage Program

9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Sunday, May 18

The Windham-Blackhead Range, named for its fir-capped summits that appear almost black on the horizon, comprises the northernmost of the Catskills high peaks. Like many of the Catskills high mountains, the peaks here are steep and rugged and offer spectacular rewards of mountain scenery and natural beauty to those who climb them.

Join us for a 6.5-mile loop hike to challenge the wobbly winter legs and admire the abundance of spring wildflowers that carpet these high-mountain trails. We’ll begin along the headwaters of the Batavia Kill before ascending to the Catskill Escarpment, where we’ll walk the ridge from Blackhead to Black Dome Mountains, passing several scenic viewpoints along the route, before reversing and descending though another small stream drainage. We should see copious amounts of such spring pleasantries as blue-bead lilies, violets, trilliums, bellworts, spring beauty, trout lily, rosy twisted-stalk, foam-flower, eastern lousewort, etc. We’ll also be in search of the uncommon, cliff-loving purple clematis, which has been spotted along this route. Hobblebush should be in flower in the cool, dark understory of the balsam fir forest and elsewhere.

This will be a difficult hike on rocky, often steep, and sometimes unrelenting terrain. Sturdy footwear with good traction is a must. We will plan on a long day to allow for going slow and botanizing at times, but we will also have to maintain a decent pace if we hope to finish! Please bring lots of water, snacks, lunch, and sunscreen since there will be few or no leaves on trees to ward off sunburns.

If you have any questions feel free to contact us at catskillpeaks@nyflora.org.

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.

Erik Danielsen, Botanist studying old-growth forests with the Tree Ring Lab at Harvard Forest in MA

Sunday, May 18th | 10 am – ~4 pm

Participants will explore a site in the Lake George Wild Forest where the landscape has been shaped by graben faults and postglacial deluges into coves and valleys that shelter the tallest trees in NY state. Igneous bedrock ridges, limestone bands and deep outwash deposits juxtapose diverse forest communities, from towering white pines on acidic slopes to climbing fumitory in rich ravines. On the date of the trip, spring ephemerals should be in full force with summer vegetation emerging, promising a nice cross-section of the site’s flora.

There are no trails in this area, which includes steep slopes, fallen trees, and other bushwacking conditions- please plan appropriately, wear appropriate footwear and bring a lunch. We will hopefully cover about 3 miles in total.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email talltrees@nyflora.org.

Participation is limited – please sign up early.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Steven Daniel, NYFA Board member, Botanist and Naturalist

Friday, May 30;  1 pm – 4:30 pm.

NYFA is offering this field trip In partnership with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. There is no preregistration for this field trip but all participants must register online for the Pilgrimage at the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage website. https://www.alleganynaturepilgrimage.com/

A moderate hike, but we’ll take 3-4 hours to cover the 3 mile distance. This trail, in Allegany State Park, includes some exceptional areas for some special Allegany plants–including forested seeps that are incredibly lush with wildflowers, ferns and overall great plant diversity. Although the focus will be on the plants, we won’t overlook whatever else happens to come our way–birds, butterflies, dragonflies, fungi. Bring water, binoculars and camera. A hiking stick could be helpful.

 If you have any questions feel free to contact us at anp@nyflora.org.

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.

Steven Daniel and Wayne Gall

Saturday, May 31st | 9 am – 4 pm

NYFA is offering this field trip In partnership with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. There is no preregistration for this field trip but all participants must register online for the Pilgrimage at the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage website. https://www.alleganynaturepilgrimage.com/

Experience the unique flora and fauna of a spectacular northern peat bog that features a quaking mat surrounding a bog pool. Many plants that are uncommon or rare in this part of New York can be found here.

We’ll also pay special attention to dragonflies and damselflies, as some unusual ones often are flying here at this time.

Participants should be in good health and have good mobility for walking on unstable substrates. Expect wet and mucky conditions and occasional light bushwhacking. Bring bug repellent as some years (not all) mosquitoes can be annoying. Recommended attire: long pants, long sleeves, hat, closed-toe footwear that can get wet such as old sneakers.

Bring lunch & water.

This program extends from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, including 45-minute drive outside the park. Departs from Camp Allegany, at the site of the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage.

 If you have any questions feel free to contact us at anp@nyflora.org.

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.

Kierin Bell | Naturalist

Sunday, June 1st | 10 am – 4 pm

On this trip, we will botanize two culturally significant and ecologically fascinating sites around the area of Kana’tsioharè:ke (‘the place of the washed pot’) — the namesake of the town of Canajoharie — in the heart of the traditional homelands of the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk people).

We will begin the day at Kanatsiohareke Mohawk Community, located on several hundred acres of forested valleys and ridges adjacent to the Mohawk River. The Community was (re)established in 1993 with the important goal of facilitating the return of the Kanien’kehá:ka people, language, and culture to their homelands. They have graciously provided us with an opportunity to visit and explore the numerous trails on the property.

We will walk about one mile along a forested trail, ending in a wet meadow along the shores of the Mohawk River. The forest is rich and characterized by species such as hackberry, basswood, ashes, elms, and sycamores. We’ll have the chance see plenty of spring ephemerals, sedges, bryophytes, and, with any luck, at least twelve species of ferns and horsetails.

Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to learn more about Kanatsiohareke and its mission. In the afternoon, we will drive a short distance to the nearby Caughnawaga Village Site. There, we will botanize the network of trails owned and operated by the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha National Shrine.

This is the site of a former Kanien’kehá:ka village and historical home of Kateri Tekakwitha (born circa 1656). Even centuries after the village was depopulated, we can still find species that are often indicative of past Indigenous burning practices, including black birch, white oak, and hickories. For those interested, there should be a chance at the end of the day to visit the Shrine museum to learn more about the site and its history.

Please consider donating to Kanatsioshareke Mohawk Community to support their important work here: https://www.mohawkcommunity.org/donate

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email Kanatsiohareke@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Brandon Cohen is an amateur botanist based out of the Catskills in New York

Sunday, June 1st | 10 am – 4 pm

Sugarloaf mountain is one of the Catskills most prominent peaks, and is one of six high peaks on the infamous Devil’s Path. On our way to its peak, we’ll explore a seeping calcareous cliff, a rare habitat here in the Catskills which hosts a unique plant community including a state rare northern species, disjunct here from its broader circumpolar distribution at higher latitudes. After exploring this cliffside, we’ll head to the top of Sugarloaf where we’ll hike through an incredible example of first growth Spruce-Fir forest while discussing the flora and natural history of this sub-alpine plant community so characteristic of the Catskills. From there we’ll have the option to return, or descend the east side of Sugarloaf to explore a rich Sugar Maple dominated slope community.

Please wear footwear that accomodates sharp rocks and steep climbing as this will be a challenging hike, and remember to pack lunch and plenty of water.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email sugarloaf@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Patty Butter, Botanist and Westchester County Parks Naturalists

Saturday, June 7th | 9 am – 4 pm

This year we will return to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Westchester County a month earlier in the season to appreciate the diversity of sedges and other early flowering plants that populate this unique 4,300 acre Westchester County Park. Join botanists and Parks naturalists conducting a multi-year flora survey here to visit the glacial outwash, a marsh and river floodplain that are home to plant communities unique in the lower Hudson Valley.

Our trip may visit two locations, with walks through meadows and woodlands.

We will meet at the Michigan Road parking area. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring plenty of water, lunch, a sun hat, and be prepared for ticks.

This field trip is co-sponsored by NYFA and Westchester County Parks.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email wardpoundridge@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Steven Daniel, Botanist/Naturalist and

Anne Johnson, author of Plants of St. Lawrence County

Saturday, June 21st | 10 am – 4 pm

This will be a trip to explore the interior of the Tug Hill. We will venture out toward Page and Monteola where we can explore the bog that Hotchkiss diagrammed and surveyed back in the 1930’s, and, depending on time,  explore the area in the vicinity of Sears Pond and Parkers.  For historical botanical background, see Hotchkiss’s 1932 Tug Hill Flora ( NYS Museum Bulletin 287).

Limited to 15 registrants. Register early to assure space.

Bring a lunch and be prepared for wet feet.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email hotchkiss@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

David Werier, botanist

9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Sunday, June 29th

We will be exploring the high quality low floodplain forests off of the Conewango Creek, near Randolph in Cattaraugus County. A rich landscape with a diversity of sedges and other species that prefer rich low floodplains. Some plants we hope to see include Carex tuckermanii, C. typhina, Dioscorea villosa, and Glyceria septentrionalis. Boats will be needed. You can either bring your own boat or rent one. Everyone must have a Personal Flotation Devices (PFD-life jacket).

More details about the trip and the meeting place will be sent after registration. If you have any questions feel free to contact us at wildwest@nyflora.org.

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.

Mike Corey, Naturalist

Sunday, July 6th | 10 am – 4 pm

Muller Pond is a small (around 50 acres) body of water located in the Town of Schroon, which is in southern Essex County. It’s a beautiful little pond for paddling and includes a fine and substantial bog mat along its western and northern edges. There should be bog orchids present, along with the pitcher plants, sundews, leatherleaf and multiple Sphagnum species that are characteristic of boggy mats in the Adirondacks. There is also diversity amongst the aquatic plants on the pond margins. The pond is surrounded by State land.

Participants must provide their own small, light canoe or kayak that they are able to portage by themselves.  Use footwear you won’t mind getting wet. Bring water and snacks, a light lunch, sunscreen and insect repellent.

We will meet at a location that will be communicated to those who register.  

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, contact mullerpond@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Michael Hough, Greenhouse Manager at SUNY-ESF, NYFA Board Member

Friday, July 11th | 10 am – 2 pm

Located on the roof of Illick Hall, the SUNY-ESF greenhouses support a diverse assortment of temperate, tropical, and desert plant species. About half of the space is dedicated to permanent teaching collections, the rest to research and other funded projects. There are many interesting plants on display in the greenhouses including orchids, carnivorous plants, succulents, and ferns. Weather permitting, we will also tour the campus, which hosts a variety of native plants that enhance pollinator diversity and provide teaching and learning opportunities for the campus community.

If you have any questions before registering, please email greenhouse@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Bruce Gilman | Curator, Finger Lakes Herbarium

Saturday, July 12th | 10 am – 4 pm

Join us for a botanical exploration of Honeoye Lake and Honeoye Inlet plant communities. We will meet at the NYS boat launch located on East Lake Road near the south end of Honeoye Lake. There is a parking fee for the boat launch. You will need to bring a canoe/kayak for skirting along the edge of the lake above diverse aquatic macrophyte communities then paddling up the inlet into one of the largest silver maple-ash swamp communities (765 acres) in the State. The swamp communities contain emergent plants, wetland shrubs (highbush blueberry may be ripe!), parasitic vines, ferns and trees.

Be prepared to disembark for beaver dams! Total round trip paddle length is about 3 miles.  We will “raft together” for lunch at our turn-around point. Bring binoculars for birding.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email honeoye@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Robert Wesley, Botanist, Photographer, Nature Lover, Plant and Pollination Ecologist

Sunday, July 13th | 10 am – 4 pm

In the drainage divide south of Cortland are a series of small natural ponds formed in kame-moraine gravels. The system is limestone-influenced and calcareous. The ponds are inhabited by Characeae, algae that live in calcareous waters and actively precipitate marl, a sediment of mostly calcium carbonate. Some ponds have noticeably white bottoms and this gives the local area the name of Lime Hollow. The water table fluctuates widely, seasonally, and the zone between high and low water levels supports an odd-seeming assemblage of interesting species. Many of these are local rarities

Bring lunch, water and appropriate gear for the predicted weather.  Sturdy shoes for walking on rocks are recommended.  Some may prefer rubber boots for walking in water.

We will meet at 10:00 am at a location that will be communicated to those who register. We will plan to return to the vehicles by 4:00 pm at the latest.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email marlpond@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Andrew Leonardi | Botanist, Hudsonia Ltd.

Sunday July 20th | 10 am – 4 pm

Onteora Lake lies within Bluestone Wild Forest, a 3,000 acre forest west of Kingston. The trail system around the lake will allow us to visit various types of habitats including oak forests, hemlock forests, and even some vernal pools! There will be many of the usual suspects along this walk, with potential to see less common species!

This wildflower walk will span 5 miles with approximately 170 feet of elevation difference between the lowest and highest points (450-620 feet).

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email onteora@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Alex Petzke, PhD student at SUNY ESF studying inland salt marshes

Saturday, July 26th | 10 am – 4 pm

Inland salt marsh is a globally rare and little-known ecosystem, and Central New York is one of the best places to see these fascinating wetlands and their salt-tolerant flora.

We will meet in the Howland’s Island Parking area 0.7 miles up Carncross Rd. after turning right off Savannah Spring Lake Rd., then walk 1.7 miles through the island’s forest, botanizing along the way, to reach one of the few high-quality inland salt marshes in New York. Next we will stop at another salt marsh surrounding a rare salt pond, then finish the day at a thriving constructed inland salt marsh site owned by The Wetland Trust. Target species for the trip include lesser saltmarsh sand spurry (Spergularia marina), salt-loving spike rush (Eleocharis parvula), and the state-rare species American saltmarsh bulrush (Bolboschoenus maritimus ssp. paludosus) and annual saltmarsh aster (Symphyotrichum subulatum).

Insect repellent and high waterproof boots (or shoes you don’t mind getting wet and muddy) are strongly recommended.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email inlandsaltmarsh@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Skye van der Laan, Botanist

Saturday, August 9th | 10 am – 4 pm

Bentley’s Cave Preserve is the access point for a karst cave system that has historically been used as a hideout for robbers and Revolutionary War soldiers, a gambling den, and reportedly as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The cave system and preserve are composed of a mixed bag of Taconic aged geology with calcareous and non-calcareous rock making up the landscape. Surrounding the cave is a five acre preserve owned by the Northeast Cave Conservancy with a 95 acre buffer recently purchased by Hudson Taconic Lands. Dr. David Hunt prepared the Management Plan for NECC (for the five acre preserve) and listed 94 vascular plants, 18 non-vascular, and 6 surface communities including Appalachian oak-hickory forest, beech-maple mesic forest, calcareous cliff community, maple-basswood rich mesic forest, spring, and sinkhole. A few county rarities from the list include walking fern, Canada yew, and Tuckerman’s sedge.   No intensive survey work has been done on the new acquisition and additional county-rare plants are likely.

On our field trip we will travel uphill through the preserve for about a mile along old logging roads to the entrance of the caves. Along the way we will pass banks of ferns including glade fern, Goldie’s fern, and silvery spleenwort.  A hybrid wood fern (Dryopteris x neowheherrii has been seen along the trail.   We will explore the cliff faces and outcroppings.  On the return trip we will navigate a new route around the hilltop and attempt to add new species to the list as we descend through the buffer parcel. Features we will pass include a steep, seepy, mossy boulder field, a number of grand old sugar maples, and possibly a spring or two.

Bring good hiking footwear, raingear, plenty of water, lunch and snacks for the hike.  Assume ticks will be present and be prepared to repel them.

We will meet at a location that will be communicated to those who register.  

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, contact cave@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Steve Young, former chief botanist for the NY Natural Heritage Program who continues to study the state flora, mostly in the Adirondacks, the Capital District, and Long Island.

Sunday, August 10th | 10 am – 1 pm

We will take a walk from the parking lot of Whiteface Mountain, up the stairs to the top and then down the Wilmington Trail to the parking lot.  We will look at the wide diversity of rare and common alpine and krummholz plants and see if we can add to the extensive checklist of plants for the summit. This is a moderate hike and will involve a climb up the long (sometimes crowded) stairway from the castle to the top and a walk down a rocky, sometimes bouldery trail to the road. This is a joint trip with the Adirondack Botanical Society.

There is a limit of 10 people for the trip so please register early.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email whiteface@nyflora.org.

Joint field trip with the Adirondack Botanical Society.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Michael Kudish, Forest Historian

Saturday, September 6th 10:30am – 4:00pm

Join Dr. Michael Kudish for an exploration of Bog #426. Why Bog #426? This year one of the NYFA Catskills expeditions will visit Bog #426 near Platte Clove – a large bog whose eastern part has already been explored, cored, and dated. The unexplored western portion, from aerial photos, appears also to have expansive open areas that could be dominated by Eriophorum virginicum; cotton grass sedge is quite rare in the Catskills. The eastern portion is quite shallow to till; the western portion may have a thicker peat accumulation.  We plan on coring the western portion and botanizing throughout.

Mike Kudish received his PhD under Dr. Ed Ketchledge at SUNY ESF (then the NYS College of Forestry).  He taught for over 30 years at Paul Smith’s College.  While at PSC he studied the flora of the Adirondacks as well as the railroad system and its effects on contemporary forest composition.  His desire to learn more about the evolution of our forests has led him to relocate to the Catskills after retirement and focus his efforts on carbon-14 dating of peatland organic deposits.

Bring lunch and water. Usually by September, most biting insects are gone, but bring repellent if you feel the need. You will sink into the bog up to your ankles, so wear either old sneakers or rubber waterproof boots.

More details about the trip and the meeting place will be sent after completing registration. If you have any questions feel free to contact us at bog426@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Carolyn Summers, Missy Fabel, and Patty Butter

Sunday, September 14th | 10 am – 4 pm

Flying Trillium Gardens and Preserve protects over 385 acres of gardens, meadows, forest, and a rare kettle hole bog in Sullivan County. Founded by Carolyn Summers, landscape designer and author of Designing Gardens with Flora of the American East, the not-for-profit maintains the nature preserve as a native plant sanctuary. Not open to the general public, this is a unique opportunity to enjoy the great diversity of wild native plants, Asters and Goldenrods found in the preserve’s fields and woods. We may find Spiranthes orchids and other unusual plants.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, lunch, a sun hat, crocs or other aquatic footwear, and be prepared for ticks.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email flyingtrillium@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

Victoria Bustamante

10:00 am – 4:00 pm | Saturday, September 27th

Tides permitting, we will first look for signs off the point of the ancient “ghost forest” and the 4,700 year old Atlantic White Cedar stumps and remnant peat bog. We will then botanize a few small coastal plain ponds, and then continue on to a coastal salt pond (Oyster Pond) while passing through maritime dunes, beach, shrubland and woodlands. See this article on ghost forests.

Some expected rarities are Eupatorium torreyanum, Juncus brachycarpus, Asclepias incarnata var. pulchra, Elymus glabriflorus var. glabriflorus, Euphorbia polygonifolia, Polygonum glaucum, Schoenoplectiella purshiana var. purshiana, Aristida geniculata, Atriplex glabriuscula, Viburnum dentatum var. venosum, Sesuvium maritimum, Glyceria obtusa, and Juncus dichotomus. 

Hike will be 5 miles or so but easy walking. Bring water, lunch, snacks and insect protection. 

Sturdy walking shoes/boots, preferably waterproof, as we will be navigating through some wet areas and puddles and shoreline, walking sticks, binocular, water, and snack (or lunch), tick protection. 

This is a joint trip with the Long Island Botanical Society.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering,  please email montauk@nyflora.org.

All NYFA Field Trips are free and open to all.

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.

Kyle J. Webster | NY Natural Heritage Program Botanist

Sunday, September 28th | 10 am – 3 pm

Join us as we tiptoe around the Tarkill Ponds at Brookhaven State Park. These coastal plain ponds are a treasure of the central Long Island pine barrens and habitat to a myriad of rare and unique plants. We will take a short hike through the pine barrens before it opens up into an expansive sandy habitat exposed by the late-season drawdown of the ponds. Some highlights will include pink coreopsis (Coreopsis rosea), sickle-leaved golden aster (Pityopsis falcata), purple agalinis (Agalinis purpurea), black-fruited spike rush (Eleocharis melanocarpa), sand bead grass (Paspalum setaceum var. psammophilum), dwarf umbrella grass (Fuirena pumila), and many many more interesting species.

This will be a 1 mile hike over relatively flat sandy ground.

If you have any questions about the trip before registering, please email tarkill@nyflora.org.

All NYFA field trips are free and open to all.

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.

James Lendemer, Curator of Botany

Saturday, November 1st | 10 am – 1 pm

Join us for a tour of the New York State Museum herbarium in Albany! The herbarium has been documenting and preserving the flora of New York and the surrounding region for nearly two centuries. Participants will see an array of historical and modern specimens that illustrate the growth and evolution of the collection, as well as its ever-changing roles in botanical research and education over time.

If you have any questions about the tour before registering,  please email nysm@nyflora.org.

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.

James Lendemer, Curator of Botany

Saturday, November 1st | 2 pm- 5 pm

Join us for a tour of the New York State Museum herbarium in Albany! The herbarium has been documenting and preserving the flora of New York and the surrounding region for nearly two centuries. Participants will see an array of historical and modern specimens that illustrate the growth and evolution of the collection, as well as its ever-changing roles in botanical research and education over time.

If you have any questions about the tour before registering,  please email nysm@nyflora.org.

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.