Crack the code of bark, leaf, and seed on this urban tree ID walk around Mount Pleasant Cemetery, home to 600+ species of tree!
Mount Pleasant Cemetery's Arboretum is home to over 600 species of trees across 120 genera, and most of them have a story worth stopping for.
On this tour, tree guide Jem Barrett will help you crack the code of bark, leaf, and seed. You'll learn to spot the species that developed defensive thorns to ward off mastodons, trees so rare they barely exist anywhere else in the city, and seeds so strange they seem designed for an animal that no longer exists (spoiler: they were – giant sloths).
Once you start seeing trees through new eyes, you won't be able to stop.
Part of our Field Trips series – short escapes that make the familiar feel brand new.
Once you start seeing trees through new eyes, you won't be able to stop. Part of our Field Trips series – short escapes that make the familiar feel brand new.
About the Speaker
Jem Barrett
(she/her)
Jem Barrett is a MSc student at the University of Toronto in the Forestry department. She has taught tree identification at the undergrad level for 2 years and specializes in combining key identifiable traits with the lore behind each and every tree. Her thesis work within the Thomas Lab focuses on the use of biochar to coat tree seeds in order to kickstart both germination and early seedling development in regions affected by forest fires.
Filming and Photography Notice
RCIScience will be filming and photographing this event. By attending, you consent to the use of your image and likeness being used in promotional materials.
Please let us know if you do not wish to be photographed or filmed.
Event Logistics
Wear comfortable footwear and dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. The walking pace will be gentle and there will be extended periods of standing.
This is a rain or shine event. In the event of severe weather, e.g. thunderstorms, we will make an informed decision on the day and notify attendees as soon as possible via the email they register with.
Please refer to your event reminder email (keep an eye on your inbox!) from information@rciscience.ca for more information on where to find us on the day of the event.
The washrooms and parking are far from the meeting point and walking route. Please plan accordingly.
By attending this event, you agree to adhere to the Code of Conduct.