Identification of Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac, and Poisonwood (ENH886/EP220)

 Figure 2.  Poison ivy leaves (consisting of three leaflets) and flowersFlorida parks and woodlands are favorite places for many people who enjoy outdoor activities. Unfortunately, the native plants poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and poisonwood can make these outings a miserable experience. All four contain urushiol, a plant oil that can cause a severe skin rash (dermatitis) when any part of the plant is contacted. Allergic reaction can occur directly by touching the plant or indirectly by coming into contact with the oil on animals, tools, clothes, shoes, or other items. Even the smoke from burning plants contains oil particles that can be inhaled and cause lung irritation. This 6-page fact sheet helps individuals learn to identify these plants in order to avoid contact with them. Children should be taught to recognize these plants, particularly poison ivy, as it is by far the most common. Written by Sydney Park Brown and Patricia Grace, and published by the UF Department of Environmental Horticulture, March 2012.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep220

FOR233/FR295 Planning for the Many Benefits of Nature-Based Recreation

FOR233, a 6-page illustrated fact sheet by Taylor V. Stein, helps land managers systematically plan recreational opportunities in balance with conservation of natural area ecosystems. Includes references. Published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, March 2010.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fr295

FOR 175/FR233 Forest Management in the Interface: Amenity Resources

FOR-175, a 6-page illustrated fact sheet by Bruce Hull, Sarah F. Ashton, Rien M. Visser and Martha C. Monroe, discusses aesthetic and recreational considerations for forest management in the interface between urban and rural areas. Published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, February 2008.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/FR233