In the field of conservation, one skill stands out as particularly crucial: plant identification. With hundreds of plant species inhabiting our natural areas, including rare and endangered species as well as invasive environmental weeds, the ability to accurately identify plants is more than just a useful tool—it’s a necessity for those on the front lines of conservation.
In Victoria alone, 64% of plants are on threatened species advisory lists, a number that continues to rise. Without strong plant identification skills, conservation efforts are at risk. Misidentifying indigenous plants as weeds can lead to their unnecessary destruction, while failing to recognize rare species may result in their loss to invasive species. Moreover, incorrect planting in revegetation projects can have long-term negative impacts on ecosystems.
Plant identification is not just about memorizing names—it’s about seeing the subtle details that differentiate one species from another. This requires a high level of observation skills, which are developed through targeted exercises. For example, students at Ecoskills Training use color swatches to match plant colors, enhancing their color perception. They also spend time observing small plots, learning to identify every plant within a square meter. A deep dive into plant features, such as leaf morphology, helps them notice subtle differences that might otherwise go unseen.
Beyond its practical applications in conservation, the practice of spending time in nature and engaging in close observation is known to have significant benefits for mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in natural settings can decrease stress hormones, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. Observing nature closely not only sharpens the mind but also calms it, providing a break from the fast pace of modern life and fostering a deeper connection to the environment.
This practice of mindful observation in nature has been found to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, leading to lower stress levels and a more balanced mood. Additionally, the act of focusing intently on natural surroundings, such as plants and wildlife, is good for the brain, promoting relaxation, improving cognitive function, and even fostering creativity. For conservation professionals, who often work in high-stress situations, these benefits are particularly valuable, making strong observation skills not just a professional asset, but a personal one as well.
The consequences of poor plant identification extend far beyond simple mistakes. Conservation professionals who cannot accurately identify plants may:
A deep understanding of plant biology and identification enhances other conservation skills. It informs how indigenous plants and weeds spread, helps in recognizing the habitat value of different species, and highlights the crucial interactions between plants and animals, such as the role of pollinators in plant regeneration.
Unfortunately, many conservation courses overlook the importance of plant identification, focusing instead on management skills and plans. However, without a solid foundation in plant identification and biology, these plans may be ineffective. Developing these skills takes time, effort, and a genuine passion for the subject—qualities that are not always present in all training programs.
At Ecoskills Training, we believe that the best way to learn plant identification is through direct exposure. Our students participate in numerous field trips and handle a variety of plant samples in the classroom. This hands-on approach ensures they gain real-world experience in recognizing and understanding different plant species.
In today’s digital age, tools like iNaturalist play a crucial role in enhancing plant identification skills. By creating student projects and embedding plant identification into all units, we ensure that our students are not only familiar with the technology but also skilled in using it to complement their observational training.
Ultimately, strong plant identification and observation skills are critical in addressing the biodiversity crisis. Conservation professionals are tasked with managing natural sites, and their ability to spot subtle differences in plant species can be the difference between preserving biodiversity and losing it.
The success of our training is evident in our students’ progress. Initially, they may struggle to notice subtle differences, such as variations in the textures or shades of green among grasses. However, as they develop their observation skills and engage their occipital lobe through extensive practice, they begin to see what they couldn’t before—marking their growth as conservation professionals.
© Copyright EcoSkills 2024. Designed and Developed by Techno Exponent
