Friend with Fronds: The Biology and Ecology of Ferns with Erin Sigel

Often overlooked as ubiquitous dwellers of forest understories, ferns are the second largest group of land plants, comprising diverse and important components of our New Hampshire ecosystems. Erin Sigel PhD of the University of New Hampshire will speak on the unique and fascinating lifecycle and biology of ferns, while highlighting both common and rare species found across New England. Erin studied botany at the University of Vermont and evolutionary biology at Duke University. Currently, Erin is the collections manager of the Hodgdon Herbarium at the University of New Hampshire. Founded in 1892, the Herbarium catalogs the state’s plant and algal diversity and how it has changed over space and time. With over 235,000 preserved specimens, the Hodgdon Herbarium is a leading resource for plant-focused researchers, government agencies, and botanical enthusiasts across New Hampshire and the broader Northeast. This adult program is part of a series produced by the Hanover Garden Club in partnership with the Montshire Museum of Science. It will be held in person with a Zoom option. (Zoom registrants will be admitted from the waiting room when the meeting begins.) The program is free of charge and open to the public. Bring a friend and enjoy yummy refreshments made by our members! Check back later for the Zoom registration link.