OSHER 520 - Spring Wildflowers of the Wasatch

The Salt Lake City area is amazingly diverse in its plant life, with more than 1,000 species. This course will focus on getting students into the field to look at plants firsthand, and on learning key characteristics of the main groups of spring wildflowers. The starting date of this course will enable students to see some of the early blooming plants at the lower elevations around Salt Lake City. While on the wildflower walks, students will be encouraged to make observations of birds in the different habitats. One field trip will have the specific aim of observing birds by the shores of the Great Salt Lake. Students will be provided with descriptions of each week's locale and checklists of plants that are likely to be seen. In order to appreciate and protect these natural treasures, students will be encouraged to keep systematic records, including digital photographs, but are discouraged from collecting plant materials.