Introduction to Mosses and Liverworts

Tom Phillips is a retired veterinary doctor.  He now spends much of his time studying bryophytes throughout NYS and beyond. 

Christian Liriano is a field ecologist whose focus is on plant and arthropod diversity in the New York metropolitan area. He is also a student at the City University of New York where he works on various projects in the fields of community and ecosystem ecology

Sunday, August 30th | 9 am – 5 pm.

This one-day workshop is suitable for beginners as well as participants with advanced experience in bryophytes. The basic structure, life history, ecology, and classification of mosses and liverworts will be introduced through short lectures and guided discussions. Foundational bryophyte biology will be presented, with emphasis placed on ecological patterns and diagnostic macro- and micro-characteristics used to recognize species in both the field and laboratory. Most of the day will be spent outdoors.

Currently, 63 moss species have been documented at Black Rock Forest — how many more can we find? While moss diversity is relatively well known, no comprehensive liverwort checklist exists for the preserve — let’s make one. A central goal of this workshop is to contribute to an ongoing inventory of the bryophytes of Black Rock Forest through field observations and collections.

Field trips to a variety of habitats throughout the forest will introduce mosses and liverworts in their natural settings. Participants will learn to recognize bryophyte genera and species, describe macro- and microhabitat preferences, and practice basic collection and documentation techniques. 

Laboratory work will focus on the identification of representative bryophytes selected by the instructors, microscopic examination of diagnostic features, and the identification and curation of participant collections.

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

The workshop fee is $60 for NYFA members and students; $90 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.