Discover the plant diversity of the Blue Mountains with botanist Emil Doyle.
We’ll introduce some simple botanical terminology and provide various resources to aid in recognition. In addition, we will look at the larger pictures of eco-regions and plant communities, discuss the ecology and plant identification tips, and even provide a primer on easy-to-recognize lichen species.
The event will start along FS320 (gated) and connect to the Umatilla Rim Trail, exploring both the forest-clad and open riparian habitats of Johnson Creek and a small tributary. We will find a lush representation of most plant types that make up our northern-most Blues, including mosses, liverworts, lycopods, orchids, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. Plus, we will see favorite plants as they appear in their fruiting “swan song” — the completion of their annual cycles.
The trip leader has self-published a 55+ page color guide on Northernmost Blues ecology, botany, and lichens. Students may purchase this resource for $15.
Cost: $55 for BMLT members, $65 for non-members. For more information about this event, please contact Katy Rizzuti at katy@bmlt.org.
Spots have opened up! If you are interested please register by 6 pm Saturday, September 11.
Suitability: COVID-19 vaccinated & ages 16 +
Things to bring: Sturdy walking shoes, rain jacket, hat with a brim, sunglasses, sunscreen, lunch, water in a refillable bottle, camera, journal, and a sense of adventure
Difficulty: Involves hiking a trail at about 3,000 ft. for a total round-trip distance not to exceed 1.5 miles. We’ll easily cross the low water stream cobbles at 2 locations – the trail is somewhat undulating with a maximum in/out elevation change of +280/-280 ft.
Based on COVID-19 guidelines, BMLT will not provide transportation to this event. We will observe the guidelines provided by the Washington State Department of Health and Oregon Health Administration.
BMLT COVID-19 Policy for Outdoor Events: All participants at outdoor events, including but not limited to education, conservation, and recreation gatherings, will be required to wear masks except when the event leaders determine that social distancing can provide sufficient safety to allow unmasked activity.