As soon as we enter the woods, we are in a world where nature has the upper hand. Vines wrap the trees and sprout though fallen limbs. Ferns spread everywhere. Bald cypress, slash pines, water oaks, and cabbage palms abound. We feel we are in the forest primeval, made accessible to us by those who years ago forged the path. We are grateful that this path is maintained by our campus partners, the Scouts.

Its rapid growth allows it to smother other vegetation • We need to keep an eye on this species as it can take over native species

This fern grows well in swampy conditions • Prefers fresh water to salt water

Can be burned as a mosquito deterrent • Essential source of nectar for bees

This scraggly toyon is struggling to get a foothold in our woods. Toyon’s normal habitat is in California. We don’t know how it got here.