Woodland Stewardship Training

Help Restore Our Woodlands

Interested in learning more about the maintenance and restoration of natural areas and woodland habitats in Northern Illinois? Active management and restoration of woodlands to promote ecosystem function and biodiversity is a crucial part of preserving our natural areas for future generations. Through classroom study and practical field experience at the Arboretum, the Woodland Stewardship Training Program (WSTP) will give you the essential knowledge and practical experience necessary to be a thoughtful caretaker, either as a Woodland Steward or as a Steward Supervisor.

The Woodland Stewardship Training Program is open to anyone involved or interested in the stewardship of our natural heritage, regardless of prior experience. To be placed on the mailing list, please email Megan Dunning at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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W002 WETLAND CONSERVATION & MANAGEMENT

Scott Kobal, Forest Preserve District of DuPage and Kurt Dreisilker, The Morton Arboretum
Wetlands are unique ecosystems and valuable assets in the landscape. This course will explore the variety of wetland types and functions, and emphasize the diverse hydrological, biological and physical interactions that occur within wetlands. Address critical issues surrounding wetland management, become familiar with different wetland types and how they are classified, and develop skills in understanding the interactions between wetland hydrology, soils, and vegetation.
Note: Held indoors and outdoors. Students should come prepared to be outdoors in each class.
Supplies: Wear sturdy footwear, and bring a water bottle.
Prerequisites: Woodland Conservation & Management (W001) or instructor permission required.
Certificate Information: WSTP Requirement (24 hours)
4 Thursdays, July 11 – August 1; 6:00 – 9:00 pm and 3 Saturdays, July 13 – 27; 8:00 am – noon. Research Center.
Member $100 (nonmember $125 )

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S317 SEDGE IDENTIFICATION WORKSHOP

Andrew Hipp, Plant Systematist and Herbarium Curator, The Morton Arboretum
Ever been puzzled by all those sedges? Want to add more sedges to your restoration site, natural area, or property?

Sedges form a critical component of the biodiversity of forest understories, dry prairies, wetlands, sedge meadows, and many other ecosystems. Join Andrew Hipp, Ph.D., Plant Systematist and Herbarium Curator at The Morton Arboretum and author of Field Guide to Wisconsin Sedges, to learn this diverse and ecologically important group of plants.

This two-day workshop consists of an intensive, hands-on approach incorporating both classroom work and field study. Practice identifying sedges in the field and lab, learn the specialized terminology and distinguishing features, and practice identifying species from keys. You'll also study the habitat affinities and restoration potential of these species; most sedges and rushes are important wetland indicators. We'll focus primarily on Carex, the largest genus of sedges.
Note: Held both indoors and outdoors. Please dress for the weather each day.
Supplies: Please bring a water bottle, a hand lens, and wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes for walking over uneven terrain. Fee includes all workshop handouts, morning refreshments and a box lunch.
Intended Audience: Advanced students and professionals.
Prerequisites: Prior experience with plant identification required
Certificate Information: Can be used as a Naturalist Certificate, WSTP elective (14 hours)
Required Text: Field Guide to Wisconsin Sedges, available at the Arboretum Store.
Thursday, June 20 and Friday, June 21; 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Botany Lab, Research Center.
Member $150 (nonmember $176 ; student $50)

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NEW!

W418 MAYSLAKE FOREST PRESERVE FIELD EXCURSION

Conrad Fialkowski, Site Steward
Wander the hills, footpaths and trails around the savanna, marsh and prairie to learn more about the restoration efforts that have taken place over the last 25 years at the historic Mayslake preserve. We will get an inside look at invasive species management, seeding techniques and learn more about the successional planting efforts going on in the restored property.
Note: Held outdoors. Be prepared to be outdoors.
Supplies: Wear sturdy footwear, and bring a water bottle and lunch.
Driving Directions: Driving Directions will be provided.
Sunday, June 23; 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.
Member $32 (nonmember $38 )

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