2026 CSU Native Plant Class: Grasses

Overview
Field-based classes that teach native and invasive grasses of Western Colorado.

This native plant class with focus on Grasses. The class is made up of two sessions held on consecutive days. The following criteria will be discussed in relationship to grasses discussed in the course.

Botanical characteristics of plant families and species, identification using a botanical key, scientific names, and stewardship of native plants.

Ecological relationships including non-native species, noxious weeds, and relationships with wildlife, pollinators, other plants, etc.

Human uses including use of natives for sustainable landscaping, ethnobotanical and other human uses.

Schedule: This is a two day course. The classes will be on consecutive days, June 3rd and 4th. Classes start promptly at 8am and end at noon.

This class will be hosted at two different locations.

Day 1 (June 3): Meet at Lunch Loops trail head off Monument Drive.

Day 2 (June 4): Location TBD

Course Content: This class will focus entirely on grasses. Participants will learn key terms and features used to identify native and invasive grasses. We will introduce you to roughly 15 grasses, using key features and plant anatomy. A field guide will be provided to help identify species. Ecological relationships, human connections and the potential to use some of these plants in your landscaping will be discussed. In addition, we will emphasize understanding noxious plants and the challenge they present to our native environment.

Prerequisite: A basic botany class is suggested for those who would like to refresh their botanical knowledge and is highly recommended for those who have minimal background. Registrants will have access to recorded botany classes.

Materials provided to enrolled participants:

(1) Grasses and Grasslike plants fo Utah Field Guide
(2) 10X-magnification hand lens.

Suggested Materials: Flora of Colorado by Jennifer Ackerfield 2nd edition (2024) is suggested for this class. Mesa County Extension office has copies of the book for sale. The book is also available through the Colorado Native Plant Society bookstore (https://conps.org/conps-store), local and online retail outlets, and the publisher (800-621-2736). Please be sure to buy the newest edition.

Book rental: You can rent Flora of Colorado, 2nd Edition, through CSU Tri-River Area Extension for the duration of a course. (Book is returned at the last session.) The fee is $15 per course. Please contact 970-244-1834 if you are interested in renting a book.

Additional recommended materials to bring to each class:
(1) Plant Identification Terminology an illustrated Glossary by Harris and Harris..
(2) Pencil, highlighter, or page flags
(3) Water and snacks
(4) Warm clothing, sunscreen, rain/wind protection, and good hiking shoes

When/Where to Meet: This class will be hosted at two different locations.

Day 1: Meet at Lunch Loops trail head off Monument Drive.

Day 2: TBD

Special Instructions: Courses may require strenuous walking for extended periods on steep inclines for two or more miles on wet, rough, and/or slippery footing during windy, cold, hot, rainy, or snowy days. Courses include risks, hazards and dangers that are inherent to natural areas. Please bring appropriate clothing, equipment, footwear, etc. so that you will be comfortable in a variety of weather and trail conditions. Restrooms may be available at the trailhead but will not be present anywhere else on the trail.

Accessibility: If you need anything in order to participate in this program, please contact Jeff Pieper (jeff.pieper@colostate.edu or 970-244-1834) at least 14 business days prior to the start of the first class.

Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity

Colorado State University Extension is an equal opportunity provider. | Colorado State University does not discriminate on the basis of disability and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations. | CSU’s Office of Engagement and Extension ensures meaningful access and equal opportunities to participate to individuals whose first language is not English.

Colorado State University Extension es un proveedor que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades. | Colorado State University no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad y se compromete a proporcionar adaptaciones razonables. | Office of Engagement and Extension de CSU garantiza acceso significativo e igualdad de oportunidades para participar a las personas quienes su primer idioma no es el inglés.Col.st/ll0t3