Here’s a chance for tree enthusiasts to get out and about on Thursday evenings.

The St. Charles County Parks Department’s Forestry Staff leads guided Tree Tour walks to identify trees and shrubs found throughout our region. Traveling along the natural surface trails at various county parks on selected Thursday evenings in June and July, these free, two-hour walks are open to the public. Members of the International Society of Arboriculture will receive two continuing education Unit credits for participating in each walk.

The leisurely walks will focus on native and nonnative plant species, the environmental landscape of the region and planting tips. Each week, the walks will travel through a different county park to discuss the natural woodland and forest communities. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite Missouri tree-identification book, insect repellent, water and clothing appropriate for the weather and hiking conditions.

Four Tree Tour walks are planned in June and July:

Quail Ridge Park (Shelter #2)                                                 Thursday, June 4 at 6 p.m.

Indian Camp Creek Park (Shelter #6)                                     Thursday, June 18 at 6 p.m.

Matson Hill Park (Meet at Park Entrance)                              Thursday, July 2 at 6 p.m.

Klondike Park (Shelter #1)                                                     Thursday, July 16 at 6 p.m.

The department is encouraging preregistration for these evening walks. To register, visit www.stccparks.org or call (636) 949-7535. The walks will be held on a weather-permitting basis. In case of bad weather or wet trail conditions, call the Department’s Program/Trail Closure hotline at (636) 949-7475.