FROM RIVERLINK (full release)
RiverLink is proud to offer the opportunity for everyone to experience the beauty and knowledge nature has to offer first hand. According to Woody Plants of the Southeastern United States: A Winter Guide, by Ron Lance: "The region supports about 650 to 870 species of native woody plants, and at least 85 naturalized woody exotic species." Within the Southeast, the Southern Appalachian Mountain region is undoubtedly the most diverse, rivaled by only the tropical rain forests.

RiverLink feels very lucky to have the opportunity to help protect and improve a region with such a marvel of floral diversity. That is why RiverLink has developed a program that will share the beauty and splendor of the region through a series of guided nature walks along the Wilma Dykeman RiverWay.

The 2012 series will begin in February and extend through August, with a new theme each month. The theme for February is "Winter Tree ID," with an emphasis on buds and twigs.

Groups will be introduced to winter tree ID with a hands-on presentation of twigs and buds from species found in the area. The presentation will feature twigs from over 50 tree species. The presentation will also include a slideshow on key identification features of each species, as well as general knowledge, know- how, tips and terms, on winter tree ID. The groups will then hit the trail to put their new skills to work. Come out and see just how many species of trees can be easily found along the Wilma Dykeman RiverWay.

Groups will meet at the RiverLink office, located at 170 Lyman Street in the river arts district, at 2:00PM on February 4th and February 18th. These outings are free and open to the public. They are designed to be beneficial and of great interest to beginners and experts alike.

This year's program has been developed and is being led by Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Worth McAlister, an AmeriCorps member, and will be executed with the help of RiverLink staff, area experts and volunteers. For the full schedule of themes, dates, times, and locations please visit http://www.riverlink.org/walktour.asp, or for any other questions regarding the program, contact Worth McAlister at worth@riverlink.org, or call at 252-8474, ext. 17.Read the full article