Events

Join us for a day filled with spring wildflowers and a forest hike to learn more about forest ecosystems and their communities! This Class is Free and open to the public! Please register below so we know who is coming!

Class Bio:

Ephemeral Forests: Spring Communities of the Forest

This program will explore spring forest ecosystems and the relationships between

trees, shrubs, and wildflowers and their surroundings. Participants will learn to explore the fascinating world of flowering plant communities and their intricate associations across the landscape and build a deeper understanding of forest communities in the brief period of spring ephemerals unique to our mountains.

As we walk through nature’s classroom with experienced guides, attendees will learn:

• Basic identification of common trees and spring flowers in the area
• How wildflowers relate to canopy structure, soils, and moisture
• The preferred habitats of spring wildflowers within forest and riparian ecosystems
• Brief overview of John and his work with the forest

About The Educator :

About John Johnson: The Real Life Lorax of the Forest

John Johnson is an activist, amateur naturalist, and assistant research forester. He specializes in Appalachian tree and spring ephemeral wildflower identification and eastern forest ecology. Always more to learn and love! John’s journey began during the grassroots radical environmental movement of the 1990s. Living at the Sequatchie Valley Institute for 6 glorious years and co-leading the annual Spring wildflower hikes for 20 plus years were a crucial part of his ecological education.

Advancing his forestry education and working in forest research for the last 15 years has deepened his connection to the Appalachian forests of the Cumberland Plateau and Blue Ridge Mountains. John remains a student of the school of life and is a committed anti racist. Spring is his absolute favorite time of year. He’s always excited to see new and old friends of the woods, to celebrate the returning plant life and share knowledge and stories of the forest.

What to Expect:

3.2 miles HIKE (slightly difficult, mostly moderate ) Will have some elevation gain. Here is further information about the hike!

Please wear hiking shoes and appropriate clothing! Bring a water bottle and whatever trail snacks you need!

To wrap up the evening, we invite participants to join us afterward at Clinch River Brewery for optional snacks and refreshments to continue the conversation and build community.