This annual unique series of workshops helps participants better understand their native environment and find practical ways to replicate ecological health and diversity in their own landscapes and property.
One of the field studies teaches participants the practical steps to developing a pollinator meadow and the ecological importance of these ecosystems. Photo by Kathy McClure.
Environmental Field Studies is a series of hands-on workshops held in Beaver County - take a deep dive into the ecological importance of sustainable gardening and land management! The material will be accessible and memorable with in-the-field learning exercises, taught by down-to-earth instructors with real-world expertise. You’ll leave with a practical understanding for improving your own property and knowledgeably interacting with your environment.
2026 series schedule: Registration will be available 4-6 weeks before each class.
- April 11 - Managing Invasive Species: Register here!
- April 18 - Spring Ephemeral Wildflower Identification Hike: Register here!
- May 16 - Tree Identification Hike: Register here!
- July 11 - Landscaping with Native Plants: Register here!
- August 8 - Attracting Pollinators: Registration coming soon
The field studies are held from either 9:00am-12:30pm or 1:00-4:00pm at various sites around Beaver County, including local parks and Master Gardeners' private properties. Please note that the classes involve walking on slightly uneven terrain; in cases of mobility limitations, an alternate route or stationary experience can be arranged to ensure accessibility for all participants.
Discover the magic of spring ephemeral wildflowers on an identification hike, like the Red Trillium (Trillium erectum) and Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) seen here. Photo by Lyndsay Feather.
During the Fern ID field study, you'll learn an easy, practical method for identifying common regional ferns (such as Cinnamon Fern, Osmundastrum cinnamomeum, seen here) as well as the unique roll these plants play in the ecosystem. Photo by Kathy McClure.
Managing invasive species can feel terribly overwhelming; we will help you determine how to control the species on your own property, such as the Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) vine seen here. Photo by Karlyn Wilson.
