Tree ID, wreath classes planned

A pair of classes co-sponsored by the University of Idaho Extension and the Idaho Department of Lands will give participants a chance to learn more about tree identification or turning said trees into wreaths.

Because the region has such a varied range of latitudes, altitudes, soils, and precipitation patterns, Idaho has a wider variety of native trees than most of the other Rocky Mountain states. The first step in caring for these trees, whether they be in a landscape or in a forest, is to correctly identify the species.

Distinguishing between Idaho’s trees can be a daunting task for beginners. Through a combination of images and live samples, a two-hour workshop on identifying Idaho’s trees will help participants quickly identify Idaho’s most common native trees, including lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, western white pine, western larch, Douglas fir, Engelmann spruce, grand fir, subalpine fir, western red cedar, western hemlock, pacific yew, black cottonwood, quaking aspen, paper birch, and red alder. Participants will also learn about the ecology, silviculture, and history of these species.

The workshop will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the University of Idaho Extension office in Kootenai County, 1808 N. Third St., Coeur d’Alene.

Another class titled, “Turning Idaho Trees into Wreaths” will be held at the same site from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. the same day. Participants will learn to make a fresh wreath using native evergreen boughs. Supplies provided include a 12-inch wreath frame, wire, and a selection of native evergreen boughs and pine cones.

Both programs can accommodate a limited number of people. Those wishing to participate should pre-register at the University of Idaho Extension Office in Kootenai County by Tuesday, Dec. 3. A $10 registration fee for each program covers handouts, materials, and refreshments. For registration questions, contact the UI Extension Office in Kootenai County at 208-446-1680.

Additional sessions of the tree identification program will be held March 3, 2020 in Sandpoint and June 1, 2020 in Coeur d’Alene.