The theme for February will be "Winter Tree ID," with an emphasis on buds and twigs. Groups will meet at the RiverLink office, located at 170 Lyman Street in the river arts district, at 2:00PM on February 4th and February 18th. The groups will be introduced to winter ID with a hands-on presentation of twigs and buds from species found in the area. The groups will then hit the trail to put their new knowledge to work.

The tours will be offered the first and third Saturday of each month. Each month during the season will have a new theme. Dates are subject to change due to inclement weather, holidays, or other factors, in which case the date will be moved to the following Saturday. This year's program has been developed and is being led by Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Worth McAlister, an AmeriCorps member, and will be executed with the help of RiverLink staff, area experts, and volunteers.

These outings are free and open to the public. They are designed to be beneficial and of great interest to beginners and experts alike. Everyone from the seasoned botanist or birder, to the person looking to try something new will feel comfortable and engaged on these great mini adventures.

To volunteer to help lead a tour, suggest ideas for topic themes, or any other questions regarding the program, contact worth@riverlink.org, or call at (828) 252-8474 x 17.

Below is the schedule of themes for the 2012 Wilma Dykeman RiverWay nature walks. Rendezvous times and locations for the entire season will be announced in the near future.

February: Winter Tree ID (bud & twig)
March: On the Lookout for Amphibians
April: Wonderful Wildflowers
May: Spring Birds for Sight and Sound
June: Herbaceous Plants & Nasty Invasives
July: Growing Season Tree ID (leaves)
August: Summer Birds for Sight & Sound

(Image provided by RiverLink.)

Looking for more happenings in the area? Check out asheville.com's comprehensive visitor center.