It’s Time: Phenology

Four weeks ago on my way to the Louisiana Native Plant Society meeting in Woodworth, I grabbed a couple hours to hike at the ULM Biological Station, Charles Allen Nature Preserve near Columbia.

I was anxious to see if the Trillium had popped out of the ground yet, and I was not disappointed. I walked straight to the area where I had found them before in early February, and…. dozens! Lots of Trillium!

The vast majority were just leaves, as expected. A few had buds, tightly closed. One bud had a slim opening down the side such that I caught a glimpse of the dark purpley-red petals inside. And then, surprise! One, just one, in full bloom!

When I say, “That’s early for a Trillium to be in full bloom,” I’m making a phenological statement, albeit a rather vague and unscientific one.

March 14, 2020, Dr. Joydeep Bhattacharjee of the ULM Biology program will teach us how to make precise scientific ones. As usual, this certification workshop will run from 9 a.m. until about 3 p.m. You can register NOW. There’s a PayPal link on the “Certification” tab above, or you can pay on site if you email me in advance. ($25)

Folks, I have good reason to say this is going to be a popular workshop. So please don’t delay. Register or contact me ASAP. If necessary, priority will be given to members who are working toward certification.

Please note, this workshop is tentatively scheduled at Black Bayou Lake NWR. However, I have been delayed by travel and horrendously painful tendonitis in getting certain things done. I will get a flyer with the details in your hands asap, but in the meantime, do not delay. Register!