The events listed below are local presentations/events that are natural resource-related and open to the general public. They are not necessarily related to Wild Ones or organized by our chapter.
Wild Ones Garden Work at Veterans Park On the west side of Church Street across from the Soo Line Steam Locomotive at 1724 Monroe St. Stevens Point, WI 54481
Monday, August 5th 3-5 pm, *rain date of Thursday, August 8th 6-8 pm
Invasive Plant Takedown with North Central Conservancy Trust Leaf your worries behind and join IGNITE Young Professionals for a tree-mendous volunteer opportunity! You’ll help protect our local environment by tackling woody invasive species with North Central Conservancy Trust. It’s time to stick it to these troublesome plants and help protect our conservation spaces! What you’ll learn: How to spot common buckthorn, the different methods that are used to “control” or “treat” these plants (aka destroy them!), and why controlling these invasive plants is important. Activitrees: Get hands-on with pulling out invasives or team up for the “cut stump” technique. Volunteers will have the opportunity to try a variety of methods at their comfort level. Provided by NCCT: tools, work gloves, and light refreshments to fuel your eco-rampage. Zero experience is needed! Whether you’re a biology major or just like being outside, you are welcome! Dress for the weather and the woods, prep with some bug spray ahead of time, and be ready for a workout in the great outdoors. Don’t sleep on this chance to be a real-life superhero for nature.
When: Wednesday, August 21st from 5:30-7:30pm
Where: North Central Conservancy Trust, 301 West Cedar Street Stevens Point, WI 54481
Combating the Biodiversity Crisis with Native Plants Native plants are essential for maintaining biodiversity as they provide food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife, including pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects. By incorporating native plants into your landscape, you can create a thriving ecosystem that supports local fauna and flora. These plants are well-adapted to local environmental conditions, making them more resilient to climate change and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Attendees will learn how native plants can improve soil health, enhance water retention, and contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant ecosystem.
Sara and Coralie are part of the Indiana Native Plant Society (INPS) Landscaping team, and they have collaborated on diverse projects across Indiana, including native planting schemes for schools, community gardens, the Eiteljorg Museum, and the Humane Society. Their new design for Indianapolis reflects typical sub-divisions in Indiana and considers future climate challenges, such as increased flooding and hotter, drier summers. The design features resilient, native Indiana plants that thrive in local soil conditions and contribute to the ecosystem.
When: Thursday, August 22nd at 6pm
Where: Virtual – Register for link here
Native by Design: Gardening for a Sustainable Future The Arboretum’s annual Native Gardening Conference promotes sustainable gardening practices and use of native plants in home landscapes. Expert-led workshops inspire and inform gardeners, homeowners, and landowners to create and maintain native gardens or small-scale restorations where they live. The program welcomes people with a range of interests and experience. The all-day event features expert-led workshops, lunch, a keynote speaker, tours of the Wisconsin Native Plant Garden, a resource packet, and ample time for Q&A. Presentations cover a wide range of topics, such as: garden design, native trees and shrubs, garden planting and management, native plant identification, invasive plants, pruning deciduous and evergreen shrubs, and nature journaling. The keynote by Skye Bruce, coordinator of the Wisconsin Monarch Collaborative, will explore the essential relationships between butterflies and their botanical partners. Registration is required.
When: Sunday, September 15th from 8:45am-4:30pm
Where: UW Madison Arboretum
