Come and get up close and personal with our fascinating lichens. Often overlooked because of their tiny size, lichens play a very important role in nature. And when studied under magnification, they reveal an otherworldly beauty not seen with the naked eye.

Pam Kirkbride, a self-taught naturalist specializing in California native plant botany and lichenology, will give an overview of lichen habitats, evolution, ecology, identification, and more. Bringing a variety of lichens for a hands-on experience, Pam will introduce us to common species of local lichens, share her library of reference guides, and discuss how to start exploring the world of lichens.

"Whether your interest is in birds, mammals, insects, soils, arts, or medicine, you'll find lichens in the mix," says Pam.

Pam has been a member of the California Native Plant Society for over 30 years and serves as a docent for Jepson Prairie Preserve and Mather Field. She has also taught native wildflower classes and has led dozens of field trips throughout California.

This talk is free and open to the public. Books, wildflower seeds, and t-shirts are available for purchase. Pacific coast irises and other plants from the chapter's demonstration garden will be offered as well. Refreshments provided - and try out our elderberry jam tastings this month!

This Sac Valley Chapter Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 7:00 pm. Chapter meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of the month (January - June & September - November) at the Shepard Garden and Arts Center, McKinley Park, 3330 McKinley Blvd (eastern extension of E Street), 95816.

The Sacramento Valley Chapter of the California Native Plant Society is a non-profit organization committed to the conservation of California native plants and their natural habitats and increasing understanding, appreciation, and the horticultural use of native plants. For more information, visit sacvalley.cnps.org.