As part of NTC’s education efforts, arborist Jim Porterfield and botanist Celia Larsen led a group of nearly 50 tree lovers on a short 0.8mi hike along the Chinkapin Trail of Legacy Park on a brilliantly golden fall day. Northville Parks and Recreation Director, Derek Smith first told the group about the history of establishing the hiking and biking trails in Legacy Park, then Jim and Celia showed the group how to identify +/- 10 species of the woodland trees including basswood, beech and oak. They helped the group learn to distinguish amongst the various oak species, showing the pointy red oak leaves, the more rounded white oak leaves and the unique wavy-edged chinkapin oak leaves. They also compared the bark and branching patterns of the trees and examined the acorns and other nuts and seeds they found. They briefly discussed invasive species like honeysuckle, which are thankfully not too present in the area. The striking fall colors and the community camaraderie enhanced the engaging and informative walk.

Jim and Celia plan to lead another tour in Legacy Park in Spring 2025, this time focusing on the spring ephemeral wildflowers that grow under the majestic trees of Legacy Park.