MNPS Field Trip: Evening Spring Plant Walk at the private Don Miller Forest, Ellicott City, Howard County (Tuesday)

Sponsoring Organization: Maryland Native Plant Society and Natural History Society of Maryland

This small forest is named in memory of a son of Charles E. Miller, Howard County politician and businessman.  Don Miller was president of Miller Chevrolet and was interested in trees and other plants.  One must get permission to visit this small stream valley.  It contains a diversity of species: spring beauty, fringe tree, blackhaw viburnum, arrowwood, mapleleaf viburnum, spicebush, oak, hickory, red maple, dogwood, black gum, ash, tulip tree, beech, wild geranium, false solomon's seal, bedstraw, jack-in-the-pulpit, mayapple, New York fern, sensitive fern, blackberry, black cohosh, and sedges. This is the 5th year that we will explore this area, to add to our survey of its flora and note changes over time.

Leader:  Heidi Pringle

FREE 

Notes:   A climb down a small steep hill is necessary to enter the forest.  There is a small, shallow stream crossing.

There are only animal trails, and participants are asked to be very careful not to step on the native plants.

Leader has encountered only one tick, but tick populations change each year and there are many deer.  Please take precautions for ticks. 

Wear long pants, since there is an area with poison ivy that must be crossed. There are muddy areas.

Bring: Recommend pad and pencil or pen, rain gear, hand lens, boots. 

Cancellation Policy: In the event of heavy rain, the walk will be postponed.  Please call if in doubt about cancellation.