2025 NPM Sandstone Ranch Open Space Wildflower Field Trip -May 29; 9am-4pm

Sandstone Ranch is a 2,038-acre Open Space property nestled beneath the foothills in southern Douglas County. Montane, riparian and grassland environments define the property. The ranch was privately owned for generations and protected through the years, which allowed for plant species proliferation. In addition to plants that are usually seen at higher altitudes, plants that are considered uncommon in Colorado or that have only recently been reported from Douglas County can be found at Sandstone Ranch.

Come explore and learn with us at this amazing open space.During this day-long field trip, participants will be introduced to native plants in varied vegetative zones at Sandstone Ranch Open Space in Douglas County. Participants will learn to use the free app "Colorado Wildflower Search" to both identify plants and log their favorites. We also encourage all participants to share their preferred field guides or online tools during a lunch-break discussion time. Participants must be able to walk 3+ miles during the day at a leisurely pace, including one steep uphill climb.

TRAINERS:

Elizabeth Taylor’s father was a botany professor, but much to his dismay, she pursued college degrees and a career in zoology, wildlife management, and technical communication. It was not until she retired that she started following in his footsteps and became a Native Plant Master instructor. She is also a volunteer naturalist for Douglas County Open Space and Douglas Land Conservancy and is a volunteer for Colorado Native Plant Society (CoNPS).

Heather Koch has a Master of Science in Cell Biology and is a Certified Public Accountant. Since retirement she has focused her learning on the macro rather than the cellular side of biology, plants! Her volunteer work included the CSU Master Gardener Program, the Jefferson County Diagnostic Clinic, the Douglas Land Conservancy, Douglas County Open Space, and teaching in the Native Plant Master Program.

Barb Harbach is a volunteer naturalist for Douglas Land Conservancy (DLC) and Douglas County Open Space. She is a lifelong wildflower enthusiast and a certified Colorado Native Plant Master. She studied Biology in college, took a 180 turn, and obtained a degree in commercial art, working in that field for 25 years. Now retired, she guides plant and naturalist hikes and monitors plants for Douglas County Open Space.

NATIVE PLANT MASTER PROGRAM:

This wildflower field trip does not count towards a Native Plant Master certificate. Please see our other 3-day NPM certification courses if you would like to become a certified Native Plant Master. Learn more about Foothills to Plains Native Plant Master program here.

WHEN & WHERE TO MEET:

Please meet at 8:45 AM. Class begins at 9:00 AM sharp. Students will be given instructions about where to meet on Sandstone Ranch Open Space prior to the class.

Directions: Before the date of the first class, participants will receive an email with more detailed instructions for driving into Sandstone Ranch along with where to park.

In addition, the email will provide participants with instructions for downloading the “Colorado Wildflower Search” App to their cell phones.

WHAT TO BRING:

Notebook, pencil, hand lens, daypack, water, snack, rain gear, sun and wind protection, personal items you will need on the trail where there are no restrooms, etc. Please come prepared for moderately strenuous walking on hot, cold, windy, rainy or snowy days. (~3+ mile hike on uneven terrain with hills. Bringing hiking poles is encouraged if they would make you more comfortable on the trail.)Bring your copy of Flora of Colorado by Jennifer Ackerfield if you have one.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Please note the class will be held on an area of Sandstone Ranch Open Space that is accessible by permit only. No other guests will be allowed in that area during the class. Please come prepared for moderate to strenuous walking on hot, cold, windy, snowy or rainy days. Class will meet regardless of weather conditions.

Location Address (not a reliable method of finding the property by GPS; follow instructions which will be provided to registrants before the first class):

8309 S. County Highway 105

Larkspur, CO 80118

Also check out other Workshops in Larkspur, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Larkspur, Arts events in Larkspur.