Larry Cornelis has extraordinary knowledge of the flora and fauna of Lambton County and beyond. He expertly led a group of nearly 90 people through Lorne C. Henderson Conservation Area looking at various tree species, explaining what to look for when identifying trees, and engaging us with many facts about the importance of trees.
A fairly recent popular term that Larry described is Forest Bathing – simply immersing oneself in a forest atmosphere. With as little as 2 hours per week Forest Bathing has been scientifically shown to increase immunity, decrease the risk of cancer and help you to recover from illness faster, decreased risk of heart attack, help with obesity and diabetes, more energy and better sleep, mood- boosting effects, and decreased inflammation.
This two hour walk was enjoyed by all and everyone left understanding the significant role native trees play in providing habitat and food for the incredible biodiversity needed for a healthy ecosystem.
Thank you Larry!
Larry also provided a comprehensive list of books that he recommends for tree identification:
Trees of the Carolinian Forest; Gerry Waldron
The Sibley Guide to Trees; David Allen Sibley
Landscaping With Native Trees; Guy Sternberg & Jim Wilson
The Global Forest; Diana Beresford-Kroeger
Arboretum America; Diana Beresford-Kroeger
Forest Bathing; Dr Qing Li
The Hidden Life of Trees; Peter Wohllenben
Trees in Canada; John Laird Farrar