The Discovery Center at Ridgefield is hosting a 'Farewell to Summer Stroll' ~ a final stroll through the woods during late summer. Join us as we begin to look for the very first signs of fall!
Join us for a short walk through the forest. Along the way, we will learn about the plants and animals living here and what they are doing as summer draws to a close. We will look for early signs of autumn. During our adventure, you'll have a chance to enjoy this beautiful Open Space and get some fresh air along the way!
All Ages Welcome!
What to wear: Sturdy shoes and bring along insect repellant if needed
Where to Meet: Hemlock Hills Open Space in Ridgefield - Bogus Road Entrance. Take Ridgebury Road north to Ned's Mountain Road (at points this road is very narrow) and follow to intersection of Bogus Road. Entrance to open space is on the right. Or take George Washington Highway to Old Mill Road continue straight and it will turn into Ned's Mountain Road. Open space entrance will be at the intersection of Bogus Road on the left.
Fun Tree Facts: Hemlock Hills is named after what used to be its most common tree, the Eastern Hemlock, Tsuga canadensis. As with most plants it is called other names i.e. Canada hemlock, hemlock spruce. It is a slow growing, long lived tree which can do well in the shade. In good surroundings it can live for 800 years, reach 80 feet and have a spread of 25 - 30 feet. Some people think it is poisonous like the hemlock plant. But, the two are not related. In fact, once the young needles were used to brew a type of tea which is very rich in vitamin C. Unfortunately lately, our hemlock woodlands have had their difficulties. Most notably, the wooley adelgid, an asian invasive insect, has killed large stands by literally sucking the life out of them.
To register, please click here.