It may seem like it is taking forever for spring to arrive this year, but the plants know it is here. Retired St. Mary’s College of Maryland biology professor Ernie Willoughby will lead a tour of natural and managed plant habitats on the St. Mary’s campus from 10 a.m. until noon on Saturday, April 23, 2011. The free public tour includes the shoreline, the marshes, grassy areas, woods, and wildflower meadows. Meet at the Muldoon River Center and wear sturdy walking shoes.

St. Mary's College of Maryland, designated the Maryland state honors college in 1992, is ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. More than 2,000 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary's River in Southern Maryland.