The Northwest is home to the greatest conifer forests on Earth! They are expansive, the trees immense, and the species diverse. Eighteen are found in the Mount Hood National Forest. Each is unique in its appearance, its ecology, and its usefulness.

This mini-course will be led by Dr. Keith Swenson, Adjunct Professor of Natural Sciences at Multnomah University. It will begin with a lab session, conducted at the home of John and Rhea Hergenrather in Hood River, in which participants will learn to use a dichotomous key to identify conifer species. This exercise will be followed by a field trip in the Mount Hood National Forest, during which participants will practice their identification skills. The day’s activities should greatly enhance everyone’s understanding of, and appreciation for the Creator’s beautiful and useful world of plants. A comprehensive handout will be provided.

(This program is an excellent science activity for home school students.)

Trip leader: Keith Swenson (khswenson@live.com)