Ferns of the Forest

Come learn about the plants that dwell all throughout the forests of Florida. Fun fact: Florida is home to more fern species than any other continental state in the U.S., and ferns are among the oldest living plants on Earth — they predate the dinosaurs by hundreds of millions of years! Join Dr. Tirado as she reveals the hidden ecology, diversity, and ancient beauty of these remarkable plants in our local ecosystems. Dr. Sandra M. Tirado is the Conservation Biologist and Regenerative Agriculture Lead at Ave Maria University. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Biology and over 15 years of experience in plant ecology, habitat restoration, and sustainable land management, she specializes in native plant communities and ecological restoration in Southwest Florida. Dr. Tirado has conducted extensive field research on plant-microbe interactions and biodiversity. Passionate about connecting people with nature, she will lead this guided hike exploring the fascinating world of ferns.