Do all ferns start to look the same when you study them?  Here’s your chance to finally learn to distinguish and appreciate them in all their diversity. Receive an overview of fern species in the Valley, review fern life-histories, and pick up some easy field identification tips. During the weekend sessions, visit a variety of habitats, from moist forests to acid swamps to basalt cliffs in Hampshire and Franklin counties and expect to see upwards of 35 species. Recommended text: Ferns of Northeastern and Central North America, Peterson Field Guide series, second edition, 2005. Bring a hand lens to each session and for field sessions, bring a lunch and dress for the weather.