What is an Herbaria:
An
Herbarium is a collection of preserved plant specimens used for
scientific study. These sheets may be whole plants or plant parts and
are mounted on a sheet of paper. These are used to reference and
describe plant taxa as a much more accurate than drawings. Recently,
herbaria have been used to provide DNA for taxonomy and molecular
systematics. Researchers have also began to use herbaria to study how
plant populations have changed over time due to climate and human
impact.
What will the class entail:
This
class will have two parts. The first part will be a quick class about
herbaria, what they are, how they are used, and a demonstration for how
to create herbarium sheets. The second part will entail the students
making their own herbarium sheets using plants pre-pressed from Alcatraz
gardens. Finally, there will be an optional section where people can
bring their own books or other pressing materials and learn how to
not-so-scientifically press plants for their own enjoyment.
Please plan to check in at Pier 33 (Alcatraz Landing) no later than 8 am to take the first ferry over to the island (map and parking link). Class will finish around Noon and participants can return to the Pier on any ferry (return ferry schedule here). Please dress for the variable weather of the island--bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
For a map to the meeting location, click here >>
Please note: Park Academy classes are
meant as a special perk for volunteers, members, and employees. If you
do not work for the Golden Gate National Parks, are not a member,
or have not volunteered with us in the past year, a donation is encouraged. Volunteer or become a member today!