Log hours under:  Flora of Virginia App Training

Using the Flora of Virginia Phone App

The Flora of Virginia Project is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Virginia Native Plant Society, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, and other partners. In 2017 the Flora of Virginia Mobile App was introduced which places a wealth of botanical information in the hands of cell phone users.  Users can use either graphic or dichotomous keys to identify plant species, read detailed descriptions of species, review photos and drawings of each plant, review range maps in Virginia by county, learn about specific site and environmental requirements, and learn about natural communities in Virginia where various plant associations occur.  The emphasis is on plants native to Virginia, but introduced species are also included.

In an effort to promote the use and understanding of the Flora of Virginia App, Virginia Master Naturalists have inaugurated the Floral Ambassador program in which a local member who has completed the curriculum will provide an introduction and familiarization overview followed by a field exercise.  Participants will learn to identify plant species using the keys and become familiar with other features of the App.

The first class in the Hampton Roads area will be held on September 7 at the First Landing State Park Trail Center (outside picnic tables) from 9:00 to 11:00.  Class size will be limited to 10 participants.  For those unable to attend on Saturday, a second class will be offered on Wednesday, September 11 (rain dates will be September 14 and 18).  After the initial orientation, we will practice identification on short walks to nearby woodlands or garden areas.

Individuals who register for the class are required to download the Flora of Virginia App at a phone app store prior to attending the class.  There is a one time cost of $19.99 for the App, after which all updates are provided at no added expense.  All information is downloaded and there is no requirement for an internet connection once the app is installed.

Individuals interested in attending this initial class should email Allen Carter at allencarter44@msn.com with your name, email address, city or county of residence, which date you plan to attend, and organization affiliation (e.g., Tidewater Master Naturalist, FLSP employee, FLSP volunteer, Friends of First Landing).  Names must be submitted no later than September 6, and will be accepted on a first come first serve basis.

Thank you for your interest in the Flora of Virginia Project.