Photo by Jacek Kisiel
Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Program location: Farm at the Arb - McVay Learning Lab (in the Bee Center)
A Lichen is more of a lifestyle than an organism–a complicated lifestyle made up of fungi and algae living together symbiotically. Small, but mighty, these amazing organisms are 8% of the earth's biomass and in this class you will learn about the array of lichens growing throughout the Arboretum. After an introduction to lichens, you will discover some of the best spaces they grow and photograph them with your cell phone, while also connecting to the Minnesota Lichen Map on iNaturalist to explore the Arboretum grounds.
In this class you will:
All supplies are included.
Instructor:
Zan Tomko, a retired graphic design instructor, is communicating nature through her work as a Minnesota Master Naturalist Volunteer Instructor and is a co-founder of the Minnesota Lichen Map Project. She is a contributing writer for the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Nature Notes blog and has also worked on weekend programs for the Marion Andrus Center. She previously worked for a park district in horticulture and conservation and is a former editor of Illinois Audubon Magazine.
Book Recommendations:
Lichens of the North Woods
Joe Walewski
The Secret World of Lichens: A Young Naturalist's Guide
Troy McMullin
Urban Lichens: A Field Guide for Northeastern North America
J.L.Allen & J.C. Lendemer
We recommend that you enter the Arboretum via the back gate on 82nd St, not the main entrance on Hwy 5. This is the most direct route to access the Farm at the Arb, and avoids potential delays when driving through the Arboretum.
Directions: 3210 W 82nd St, Chanhassen, MN 55317
If you do wish to enter through the main Arboretum gate on Hwy 5, you can take 3-Mile Drive through the Arboretum and turn right on Peter Moe Drive to get to the Bee Center (this route may take an additional 15-20 minutes, so please plan accordingly). Note: in winter months 3-Mile Drive may be closed, please check before arrival.
Main Entry instructions:
You will receive a bar-code ticket for entry to the Arboretum in your email purchase confirmation. Your ticket is valid for entry on the day of your class. Present your ticket to the gate attendant as you enter the Arboretum. You may stay at the Arboretum after class as long as you want during our operating hours.