ORONO – The Maine Tree Club is offering to teach new members about different species of trees and how to identify 50 different tree types in the state.

Every month, participants will receive mailings that highlight two species of Maine trees. Several outings guided by experts are also scheduled for the mountains, coastal regions and other parts of Maine in 2004.

Participants will receive a hand lens, a notebook, a weatherproof pocket guide to Maine trees, several practical guides related to tree care and a tree seedling to plant during Arbor Week. The program is offered by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Maine Forest Service and Pine Tree Arboretum.

“Trees are a magnificent part of nature,” said Richard Brzozowski of the Cumberland County Extension office. “Cooperative Extension presents the Maine Tree Club so that anyone – from kids to grandparents – can learn how to identify trees and understand their importance.”

Much of the knowledge gained by members of the Maine Tree Club may be easily applied in their own yards and communities.

The annual registration fee is $15 per person, $25 per couple, or $30 per family. A group rate of $60 plus the cost of hand lenses is available to schools, clubs and other groups. Maine Tree Club Scholarships also are available.

A free brochure is available by calling (800) 287-1471, e-mailing rbrz@umext.maine.edu or visitingwww.umaine.edu/ umext/mainetreeclub.