When: Sunday, March 25. Meet at 9 am in the parking lot diagonally across from Hayner Library in downtown Alton. Expected return is approximately 4 pm. Where: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/visit/family-of-attractions/shaw-nature-reserve.aspx What: Explore the beautiful gardens and trails of the reserve; feast your eyes on early-blooming wildflowers; enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of spring. Who: Participants must be able to walk 4-5 miles. Leader: Susan Murray About the Location: Shaw Nature Reserve comprises 2,441 acres and sits at the juncture of several major Midwestern habitats, allowing it to enjoy a great diversity of plant and animal life. It has become a premier educational, research, and habitat restoration and reconstruction site. At the end of March, many early spring wildflowers should be in bloom. Shaw Nature Reserve is part of the Great Missouri Birding Trail and we will be there during the peak of the spring migration. The Reserve also has a bookstore. Trails are well-groomed, with gradual ascents and descents. See the topological map on the Reserve website. Entry fees: Non-member fee for adults is $5; $3 for students and seniors; children under 12 are free. Please RSVP by March 20 to Susan Murray - emseth75@gmail.com or 618.581.2505. Outing will be cancelled if insufficient registration. Bring: Lunch to eat on the trail, water Light hiking boots Clothing appropriate for the weather, including rain gear Flashlight Prescription medications, as needed Sunscreen/hat with brim. Binoculars (optional) A change of clothes if desired