— by Cindy Chrisler
Gary Bowers led 18 enthusiastic hikers on a trail at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock to learn about tree identification and habitats found in the area. Attendees were treated to Gary’s expertise, augmented by the collective knowledge of several local NPSOT members.
In addition to learning a new term (marcescence), the group was entertained by a squirrel entering its nest cavity in an elm, the sight of a very large poison ivy vine, luminescent soapberries, colorful possumhaw berries, and an enormous live oak. We also learned Native American uses of some trees from a NPSOT-Wilco member and botany student at UT Austin, Arnan Pawawongsak.
Two children who dutifully accompanied their parents often engaged Gary with questions about leaves, bark, and other observations on the plants seen on the hike. Several non-members attended the hike, and were eagerly invited to attend our next meeting. This delightful outing was the perfect beginning for the new year.
Plant images: Soapberry, Sapindus saponaria and Possumhaw, Ilex decidua.
Photos by Cindy Chrisler.
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