Learn more about Michigan's underwater forests by joining a two-day course on aquatic plant identification at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, slated for Wednesday and Thursday, June 17-18.
Within our lakes — mostly below the surface — exists a diverse and beautiful underwater forest. There are so many shapes and sizes, from the tiny duckweed to the lush growth of large-leaf pondweed. Some plants grow massive root systems, some float freely in the water column, and others that rest on the surface. Some are even carnivorous.
The two-day class Aquatic Plant ID course will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, and will cover identification of aquatic plant species (both native and invasive), focusing on littoral zone, or shallow water, submersed, and emergent plants.
Participants will have the opportunity to obtain a hands-on look at lake and pond species and receive professional instruction for identification and determination at the species level. The class will visit field sites in the greater Kalamazoo and Barry County area, and participants will have the opportunity to examine specimens in a laboratory setting.
Participants will gain skills and experience in:
- Aquatic plant morphology and terminology
- Michigan aquatic plant identification
- The ecological role of aquatic plants in Michigan water bodies
The course will be led by Erick Elgin, Jo Latimore, Ph.D., and Jeremy Hartsock, Ph.D., with Michigan State University Extension and the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife.
The cost to participate is $300 ($250 for Kellogg Bird Sanctuary members) and includes a copy of the field guide “Aquatic Plants of the Upper Midwest.” The registration deadline is Sunday, June 14, and is capped at 20 participants.
Register by June 14 to reserve your spot.
For more information, contact communityrelations@kbs.msu.edu
