EXCURSIONS

Worldwide there are about 12,000 species of moss in the Bryophyta family. Learn to identify the most common local species Saturday at Moss Landscapes of Vancouver Island, a CRD guided adult hike.

Parks naturalist Kem Luther will bring to life the strange lives of mosses. In the Pacific Northwest, moss is sometimes used as a low-maintenance lawn substitute. It requires no mowing, fertilizing or watering. Moss can also be found on green roofs because of their high drought tolerance - they require no irrigation once established.

Cost for the hike is $7 per person, plus HST. This is an adult-only activity. The hike is from 10 to 11: 30 a.m. at Mill Hill Regional Park in Langford. Pre-registration is required by Friday. People will be informed on where to meet upon registration.

Wear sturdy footwear and dress for the weather as programs take place rain or shine. It is a good idea to carry a day pack with water and a snack.

Try to arrive 10 minutes before the start of the program. Leave pets at home.

For more information go to www.crd.bc.ca/parks.