The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Flora-Quest

May 03, 2013 - May 05, 2013

Adams and Scioto counties

photo credit: ODNR

Supported in part by The Nature Conservancy, Flora-Quest is a hand’s-on botanical adventure focusing on native plants and the conservation of natural areas. Centered at the
beautiful Shawnee State Park resort in the middle of Ohio’s largest contiguous forest, a mind-boggling array of plants is at our fingertips.  Just to the west of Shawnee in Adam's County is the Conservancy’s sprawling Edge of Appalachia Preserve System and several of Ohio's best Natural Areas and Preserves.

Filled with unusual habitats and possessing one of the state’s highest concentrations of rare plants, Adams County is a botanical paradise. Flora-Quest trips are split between Scioto and Adams counties, and offer participants the greatest botanical adventure to be had in Ohio, at the best time of year to explore this region. Upwards of 1,000 species of native plants are found in this area – there are only about 1,900 natives in all of Ohio.

In addition to learning about common plants, Flora-Quest participants will also have the opportunity to observe a number of great rarities. Particularly noteworthy are the Appalachian plants found no further north than Shawnee. Newcomers are often amazed to see southerners like umbrella magnolia, pinxter-flower azaleas, and early stoneroot in the forest.

Some of Ohio’s most gifted botanists and naturalists are leading Flora-Quest expeditions. All of them know the area well, and are very familiar with the plant life of the region. Their leadership is invaluable, as first-timers (even second, third, and fourth!) are often overwhelmed by the vastness of Shawnee and the Edge, and scarcely know where to begin. Most of the guides are also well-versed in other facets of natural history, such as birds, butterflies, geology, etc. which adds to the enjoyment of the trips.

May is a time of rebirth in the natural world, and there is no better place to be than in the wildlands of Adams and Scioto counties to experience spring. See you at future Flora-Quest!

For a complete schedule and registration information, visit the official site of Flora-Quest.  Registration opening in January!