Events

We’ll watch a presentation by Dr. Harland Patch, one of the entomologists who helped create the Pollinator and Bird Garden at the Penn State University ARboretum, about its design and how we can apply those principles and recent research findings to our landscapes. After a short group discussion, Dr. Patch will join us for a live Q&A. 

Online only: Please email [email protected] for the Zoom link and indicate how you learned of this program. 

The Pollinator and Bird Garden at the Penn State University Arboretum reflects really

good science and really good design: the plant list and all of its features were chosen by

a team of scientists to support the highest possible diversity of pollinators native to the

region, as well as resident and migratory birds. The world-renowned landscape

designers Emmanuel Didier and Claudia West organized it into habitats inspired by the

surrounding countryside, ranging from open meadows to forested ridges and ponds,

and made it beautiful. More than 600 volunteers helped install its 143,000 plants,

totaling 300+ plant species.

No model existed for a pollinator garden of this size and scope. Now, three years later,

it’s won an international award for sustainable landscape architecture.

In addition to its beauty, this public garden supports a wide array of educational

programs and research into questions that matter to many of us, such as which plants

best support pollinator diversity and how does landscape design influence pollinator

populations?

Dr. Patch is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Entomology and Director of Pollinator Programming at the Arboretum at the Pennsylvania State University and co-author of “The Lives of Bees.” His research interests include pollinator health; pollinator behavior, population genetics; sustainable agriculture; food security; human nutrition.

Immediately following her presentation for the Hamilton College Arboretum Speaker Series, Judith will join WOMV for any follow up questions from her presentation and an informal discussion about what “unlawning” might mean for you or your neighborhood, as well as any questions general or specific about native plants that you might have. A light lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to [email protected] by Thursday evening so that we can order the appropriate number of lunches. Indicate if gluten-free or vegetarian preferred. We will also provide the room number where we will be meeting in the Taylor Science Center. Our event is not sponsored by or affiliated with the Hamilton College Arboretum Series.

All are welcome to join this free virtual panel discussion exploring the vital roles of native, solitary, and honeybees in pollination and biodiversity. Featuring experts Sam Droege (USGS), Dave Hunter (Crown Bees), and Dr. Lora Morandin (Pollinator Partnership), this event will discuss into the challenges pollinators face, the balance between managed and wild bees, and actionable ways to support all pollinators.

Gain insights from over 90 years of combined experience and learn how to advocate for pollinator habitats through planting native species, participating in community science, and adopting responsible management practices.

Public gardens hold tremendous power to influence landscaping norms and inspire change. By showcasing the beauty, functionality, and ecological value of native plants, these spaces help foster biodiversity, advocate for sustainable practices, and engage communities in environmental stewardship. 

This webinar will explore how public and demonstration gardens serve as powerful tools for native plant advocacy. Attendees will learn how gardens move beyond aesthetics to spark action—turning appreciation into engagement and inspiring participants to replicate these practices in their own communities.

We will hear insights from Nicole Machuca, Environmental Social Scientist at the Field Museum, on how public gardens influence behaviors, foster stewardship, and connect people to conservation efforts through research and community engagement. The Wild Ones Capital Region NY and the Wild Ones San Diego (CA) Chapters will share their experiences building native plant demonstration gardens and how these spaces drive community engagement, education, and advocacy. And We'll finish with a conversation exploring how public gardens create a lasting impact beyond planting day moderated by Kelly Kapuzzi, Demonstration Garden Char with the Wild Ones Hocking Hills (OH) Chapter.

 Winter Tree Walk at FT Proctor Park 

Scott Jackson will lead a joint walk for WOMV and Olmsted City. Scott started working at a nursery at 14. After High school, He worked in the tree maintenance business in Syracuse, Martha's Vineyard and Gloucester, MA. After his tree climbing days, he became a carpenter and now he's an assistant professor at MVCC, teaching carpentry and masonry. His absolute fav tree is the white pine.  We will meet at the parking lot off Rutgers St. in Utica.  Family friendly event! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!