"Keys to the Forest"

Woody Plant Identification & Management

(2-4 Hour field trip to the Freeman EE Center for AP Environmental Science, ESS, and other high school environmental science classes)

Students learn about the history of land use at Freeman and implications for current ecological restoration efforts. They practice tree identification using a dichotomous key and verify the species using a tree inventory database. Additionally, students apply common forestry protocols to measure diameter at breast height (DBH) and estimate the height and age of trees. Finally, students learn to identify invasive shrubs and flag them for subsequent removal. All of these learning activities support an understanding of the importance of biodiversity and forest management practices. 

* "Keys to the Forest: Woody Plant Identification & Management" Lesson Plan

* Information for Teachers

* Classroom Orientation