Get to know your neighborhood trees at the Olmsted Parks Conservancy walking tour tomorrow, December 8, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at Iroquois Park.
Sarah Wolff, Volunteer Recruiter & Park Activities Leader for Olmsted Parks Conservancy, says the main goals for the event are to raise awareness about the Conservancy, and educate participants about Olmsted design principles, and the park’s history.
“We also hope to engage the community in our natural areas and restoration efforts,” she said.
Staff members will also demonstrate tree identification techniques. According to Sarah, oak, hickory, and sweet gum trees are just a few of the common types in Iroquois Park.
“We hope to help attendees understand just a few techniques so that they may be able to identify trees in our area even after the leaves have fallen,” she said. “Louisville’s Olmsted Parks are our health clubs, outdoor classrooms, and family retreats. The park system enhances Louisville’s quality of life. Without attention and support, the value of this great community asset will decline. It takes hard work, funding, and community interest to preserve our parks. Olmsted Parks Conservancy strives to enhance and restore these resources, and invites the community to realize its stake in the future of our Frederick Law Olmsted Parks.”
Folks should dress comfortably and for the weather, long pants with socks or old tennis shoes or boots are recommended. Space is limited and registration is required. To register or learn details on the meeting location, email sarah.wolff@olmstedparks.org or call 456-8125.
The Conservancy regularly hosts volunteer projects in the park. Recently, a majority of invasive plants in the park’s woodland areas were removed, and volunteers also repainted several small picnic shelters.
“The need for volunteers is critical to keeping the park healthy. Whether people come out on their own, with their school, work or church group, everyone is welcome!” said Sarah.
A training series for Volunteer Naturalists is starting January 31. For more information and to register, go to www.olmstedparks.org/events.
Photo: A photo of huge tree in autumn via Shutterstock
