BEDFORD – Plans have been finalized for the White River Forestry Wildflower Hike on Saturday, April 8 at Feldun Purdue Agricultural Center west of Bedford.
Carroll Ritter, who organizes the wildflower hikes each year, said this is the second time the group has come to this area and he is glad to return to Feldun Farm since it has been a favorite for finding spring wildflowers.
There is a $10 fee for the hike that includes light refreshments. Any funds raised support other educational efforts of the White River Forestry Committee.
Ritter said there should be an abundance of spring ephemerals if the weather warms up. Of the 880 acres at Feldun Farms, 234 acres are forested on intriguing karst terrain. Hikes will be led by Ritter, Janet Eger, and others. Both the flowers and the terrain combine for an interesting woodland hike.
Two hikes will be offered this year from 10:30 a.m. until Noon, and from 12:30 p.m. until 2 pm.
Since the hikes are always quite popular, and only a limited number of people can effectively participate in each hike, pre-registration is required. Payment is due at the time of registration to save your place on the hike.
To register contact Mandy or Stephanie at the Lawrence County Soil and Water Conservation District Office. Mandy can be reached by email at amanda.robbins@in.nacdnet.net or by calling 812-279-8117 at ext 3. Let her know which hike you wish to sign up for and she’ll let you know where to send your payment.
Ritter hopes for a warm sunny day but said they will do the hike even in light rain. If severe weather is expected or approaches, the hikes will be canceled and your money returned. Please come early, wear sturdy shoes and if you wish to bring your lunch, there will be picnic tables available. Snacks and water will be provided.
