Paradoxa Chapter is based in Rolla. Our name refers to Echinacea paradoxa (yellow coneflower), the only member of the “purple coneflower” genus with yellow ray flowers, endemic to the Ozarks. Our goals are to improve our skill in identifying plants, from seedling through fruiting stages, as well as learning their habitats; to become more familiar with scientific names and botanical terminology; and to promote conservation of native plants. Our members vary in their levels of expertise, but all share a desire to learn. Currently, we schedule at least four botany walk-abouts during the year, with additional field trips, workshops, and programs as determined by the interests of our members. In addition, a group of us meet on Thursday mornings at Audubon Trails Nature Center in Rolla and walk the trail through woodland and prairie habitats, documenting species in bloom and population size.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday, June 24, 2:00pm, Fern Mosey at Clifty Creek Natural Area. We’re invited to join MONPS Hawthorn Chapter (Columbia) and Lincoln University on a field trip to Clifty Creek Natural Area to examine ferns. Clifty Creek is a 45-60 minute drive from Rolla, depending on the route you take – unfortunately, there isn’t a direct one! Carpooling is a possibility; please let me know if you’re interested.

Monday, July 14, 6:30-8:00pm, Walkabout on Edgar’s Prairie. We return once again to the property of John and Elaine Edgar, about a 30-minute drive south of Rolla, at the height of blazing star bloom season. They now have two mules (ATVs, not the 4-legged kind!) for our use, for those who prefer to ride. Paths are mowed, level on the prairie but some downhill/uphill if you choose to continue on to visit the glade. Please contact me for directions.

Saturday, August 23, Field Trip to Springfield Botanical Gardens and Roston Native Butterfly House. We will plan to carpool from Rolla, details to follow as we get closer to the
date.

Monday, September 15, 6:30-8:00pm, Walkabout at St. James Park Glade. Directions: Take I-44 to Exit 195, St. James, and go south on Hwy 8/68, South Jefferson St. After Jefferson St. bends slightly to the right watch for James Lane, two streets before the cemetery. There is a small sign for St. James Park on the corner. Follow James Lane past the speed bump and a 90 degree turn to the left. Drive alongside the cemetery and continue on past Lake Scioto. Just before the dam you will see the Boy Scout Council Ring on your left and buildings on your right. Park on the left and walk to the council ring. The glade is just beyond that.

For more information about events, or to be added to our email notification list, please contact Pam at the address below.

Contact Us
Pam Barnabee
paradoxarolla@gmail.com

Favorite Places
Audubon Trails Nature Center
Bohigian Conservation Area (Mill Creek)
Kaintuck Hollow Trail
Lane Spring Recreation Area
Maramec Spring Park
Marguerite Bray Conservation Area
St. James Park Glade (Plant List)
Spring Creek Gap Conservation Area