Adventure Ecology: Leaf Rubbing and Tree Touring for Beginners
Join the Squam Lakes Association (SLA) on August 19th, 2016 from 10 am to 12 pm for a morning of fun for children ages 6-10 and their parents as they learn to identify several common tree species and create a personal guide book. As the last event in SLA’s summer Adventure Ecology Program Series, intern Maggie Kelly will guide the group of participants through a fun exploration of the woods beside SLA to observe some of New England’s most prevalent trees and collect small samples, which will be used for leaf rubbings in the creation of a small, handmade guide book.
Being able to identify local trees is such an important and fun skill to have. When learned from an early age, children have the opportunity to constantly build on their knowledge as they go for walks, hike through forests, or just observe the trees in their backyard. Forests play an essential role in creating habitats in which animals live and find protection. For example, the eastern hemlock tree is favored by white tailed deer, as its low boughs provide wind and snow protection during a blustery winter.
By the end of the walk and guide book session, participants will be familiar with four to six new trees and have their signifying characteristics exemplified in their personalized guide books. All participants will get to keep their booklets for future explorations! The walking portion of the program will be approximately an hour long and less than a mile. This program is designed for children in first through fourth grade, although we are flexible with other ages. All children must be accompanied by a parent.
For more information, or to sign up for this Adventure Ecology Program, visit the SLA website (squamlakes.org) or contact the SLA directly (603-968-7336). The SLA also offers other Adventure Ecology trips each summer, though this is the last in the series. Every Friday from June 17 through August 19, these free programs are open to the public and cover a variety of nature and conservation related topics. The Adventure Ecology programs are presented by the Squam Conservation Interns who spend their summers on Squam performing important conservation work in support of the Association's mission.