Join us in Mountain View, Arkansas, on March 21st for a field-based course that teaches students how to identify trees using spring characteristics such as leaves and buds, twigs, bark, leaf scars, growth habit, and site clues. We will explore traditional and modern uses of each tree, including wildlife value, historical uses, and basic lumber and wood identification relevant to landowners, homesteaders, and craftspeople.

Students will spend time outdoors collecting specimens and learning practical identification skills that can be used across the Ozarks. Emphasis is placed on observation, comparison, and confidence building rather than memorization.

What Students Will Leave With

• 10-15 labeled spring specimens from native Arkansas trees

• A tree identification reference guide

• Practical knowledge of tree uses, including firewood, tools, building, furniture, and ecological value

Course Objectives

By the end of this class, students will be able to:

• Identify common Ozark and Arkansas trees in spring using leaves, flowers, buds, twigs, buds, bark, and form

• Understand key differences between similar-looking species

• Recognize how different trees were and are used for lumber, tools, fuel, and land stewardship

• Build a personal reference collection to support continued learning

• Gain confidence identifying trees on their own land or in the forest during the spring season

Who This Class Is For

Anyone seeking a deeper connection to Arkansas forestry.

• Homeschool students and families

• Adults interested in land stewardship, forestry, or homesteading

• Gardeners, farmers, and outdoor educators

Format: Outdoor field instruction with guided discussion and hands-on collection

Location: We will meet at the scenic Stone County Amphitheater and City Park in Mountain View, Arkansas and hike the Whitewater Creek Trail.  This is a 1.5 mile out and back trail up to the Ozark Folk Center State Park.  We will conclude the hike back at the Mountain View City Park.

Please dress appropriately for the weather. A notebook, writing utensil and a bag for specimen collection are recommended .