Old Growth Mixed Hardwood Forests: a workshop on reading and interpreting forest development
March 21, 2026
Ville Platte, LA (details upon registration)
8:45 am - 9:00 pm
Description: The forest that early inhabitants of the South knew were vastly different from today’s often dense, overgrown forests. But relics of antiquity can still be found if we have the trained eyes to see them. Join botanist John Michael Kelley and naturalist Matthew Herron on a treasure hunt to discover the remnants of our rich natural heritage as we hike one of Louisiana’s hidden gems. Learn to read the land for signs of the forest’s history, estimate age of trees and stands, and determine the ecological health of a mixed hardwood forest. The course is useful for everyone: whether your a nature enthusiast looking to learn more about trees and forests or land owner/manager looking to better steward your woods. This class does not go into tree identification as a skill set but rather focuses on recognizing pattern recognition in forest development. SPECIAL NOTES: the class includes up to 1 miles of hiking, a portion of which is on steep terrain and off-trail. Participants should be in good health and prepared for an adventure.
Registration includes instruction, materials and hand outs; lunch provided at additional cost. If the cost of program is a limitation, please contact us work trade and other opportunities.
Optional Ethnobotany Evening Program: $40, . Stick around for refeshments and a special tour of the cultural connections with plant materials. Topics include plants for fiber, baskets, dyes/inks, medicine, and more. Includes a small handmade craft to take home
