A MICHIGAN BOTANICAL CLUB, SOUTHWESTERN FIELD TRIP
to Russ Forest County Park (20419 Marcellus Hwy, Decatur 49045)
TITLED
“RUSS FOREST FUNGI”
Saturday, September 15, 1 to 4 PM
Led by Dr. Paul Olexia
We are delighted to explore the Russ Forest fall fungi with Dr. Paul Olexia. Paul’s knowledge of fungi and general botany is outstanding, and we guarantee that this trip will be a pleasant learning experience for all who participate.
Dr Paul Olexia earned his PhD in Mycology/Botany from the University of Tennessee and spent his professional teaching career at Kalamazoo College where he is currently professor emeritus. Paul has dedicated his life to teaching. Whether in the classroom, leading a field trip for the Michigan Botanical Club, or doing a presentation, he is focused on helping varied audiences understand the natural world. Paul also believes strongly in stewardship and has contributed his time and energy to many conservation groups including Wild Ones, Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, Audubon Society of Kalamazoo, and Michigan Nature Association.
Paul Olexia is a founding member of the Michigan Botanical Club, Southwestern Chapter and was the second president of the Chapter. He has also been and continues to be very active in the SW Michigan Land Conservancy where he served on the Board and as Board president. He has made significant contributions to stewardship at SWMLC through the Stewardship Committee and was a co-founder and leader of the Wednesday Warriors. Paul has also served as president of the Kalamazoo Area Wild Ones, and in addition, has made contributions to the mission of Wild Ones as chair of the programs and community projects committees.
Directions to Russ Forest : From Kalamazoo take I-94 west to exit 56 toward Decatur/Dowagiac and take M-51 south for 6.6 miles. In Decatur turn left on S. Williams St which becomes New Swamp Road and then Decatur Rd (from Decatur to Marcellus Hwy is 5.6 mi). This will take you to Marcellus Hwy. Turn left for 0.6 mi and Russ Forest is on the right. There will be a sign and a parking area.
(An alternate route: Take US-131 south to M-216 west which becomes Marcellus Hwy. From I-94 to M-216 is about 15 miles and another 18 miles to Russ Forest. The Forest will be on the left.)
If using your GPS, punch in 20419 Marcellus Hwy, Decatur MI 49045.
You can also carpool from the Oakland Drive Park and Ride at Oakland Dr and I-94. Be there by noon if you plan to carpool.