Native conifers, evergreens topic of March 4 hike

The Harbor Country Hikers’ next hike will focus on Michigan’s conifers and broad-leaf evergreens when Hikers President Pat Fisher discusses evergreens native to Southwest Michigan, others that have found their way to the area mysteriously and still others that appear to be headed this direction at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, at Jens Jensen Preserve and the adjacent Pepperidge Dunes Nature Sanctuary in Sawyer.

The hike kicks off with a 15-minute talk by Fisher, followed by a 1.5-mile hike. Those who attend are advised to dress for the weather, wear a warm cap and sturdy boots or shoes and bring plenty of water. Physical difficulty of the hike is rated “easy”.

Jens Jensen Preserve, a Chikaming Open Lands property, and Pepperidge Dunes, owned by the Michigan Nature Association, protect 45 acres of beech-maple forest with seasonal wetlands, and are a critical corridor along the lakefront for migratory birds.

Although membership in the Hikers is preferred, this hike is open to all.

For directions and other information about the Harbor Country Hikers, visit the group’s website at harborcountryhikers.com or its Facebook page, Harbor Country Hikers. — STAFF REPORTS

Annual tree and shrub seedling fundraiser taking place

The Berrien County Conservation District would like to announce that orders are being accepted for its annual tree and shrub spring fundraiser sale.

A variety of bare root seedlings of evergreens, deciduous trees, shrubs and fruit trees are being offered along with strawberry and asparagus plants. Dune grass is being offered this year. Rain barrels, composters and other items are also available.

Orders may be placed online at www.berriencd.org. Order forms may be printed from the website, or you may request one to be mailed by calling 269-471-9111 ext. 3. Orders are due by April 14. Quantities are limited. — STAFF REPORTS