SOUTHWESTERN CHAPTER FIELD TRIP

Winter Tree Identification at Kellogg Experimental Forest

Saturday April 1, 2023, 10 AM to Noon

Established in 1932 on abandoned agricultural land, the 716-acre Kellogg Experimental Forest is an MSU AgBio Research Station known worldwide for research on tree breeding and genetics, planting techniques, and plantation establishment and management.  Over 157 tree species from around North America and the world can be found at Kellogg Forest.

Currently, research is being conducted that focuses on genetics, the forest carbon cycle, forest health, and regeneration of native hardwood species and the many variables that hinder the process.  There are also demonstrations throughout the property focusing on the various methods of forest management from pre-planning to final harvest and reforestation with educational signage.

The forest is open to the public for biking, hiking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing, and has several interpretive trails including a Tree Id trail that is part of the Lemmien Loop trail.

We’ll use the four-page Winter Tree Key (attached) that is part of the recently updated by the MSU Extension Service “E2332 Identifying Trees in Michigan.”  You can download the 90 page document here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/identifying-trees-of-michigan-e2332-revised-2022

You won’t need insect repellant, or sunscreen.  Suitable clothing is suggested.  The trip difficulty level is rated easy.

Directions from the Kalamazoo area.  Go north on Gull Lake Road (M-343) to Richland.  In Richland, take E/E D Ave (M-89) east for 4.9 miles then turn right (south) on N 42nd St.  The parking lot is on the right, 0.5 miles south of M-89.  The address is 7060 N 42nd St, Augusta MI 49012.