How to read a Forest, Tree ID at Audubon Acres
This two-hour class begins with one hour in the classroom, where participants will learn an investigative approach to identifying common trees found on the Audubon Acres property. During the second hour, you'll head into the forest to put those skills into practice, using leaves, twigs, bark, buds, growth patterns, and habitat clues to identify trees in their natural environment.
Rather than memorizing species, you'll learn how to identify trees using techniques that can be applied on future hikes and visits to forests anywhere.
Participants should be prepared to walk approximately one mile on moderately flat woodland trails that may include roots, uneven terrain, mud, or wet conditions. The class will be held rain or shine. In the event of severe weather or high winds, the outdoor portion will be replaced with additional indoor instruction.
Each participant will receive a free pocket tree identification guide courtesy of the University of Tennessee Extension Office. Feel free to bring your favorite tree field guide if you have one.
Class Size: Limited to approximately 15 participants.
A second class will be offered the following Saturday.
Recommended items to bring
Notebook
pen/pencil
Water
Snacks
Bug spray
$15 non-Member
$10 Member
About the Instructor
Eric Burnett is an active member of the Chattanooga Audubon Society, serving on several committees and sharing his passion for natural history through education and volunteer service.
Eric is a graduate of the Syracuse University College of Environmental Science and Forestry Ranger School and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where he studied Environmental Science and Biology. He has also completed the Tennessee Naturalist Program.
A seasoned educator, Eric has taught popular classes on winter tree identification and the crowd-favorite "Pine Trees Get No Respect," which explored the often-overlooked diversity and ecological importance of pine species. His approachable teaching style and enthusiasm for the natural world make learning tree identification both informative and enjoyable.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:













