Chapter Events

Event hosted by all Minnesota Chapters.  Presented by Lucas Rhoads.

Featuring Lucas Rhoads, Senior Attorney with Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)’s Pesticides & Pollinators Team. 

Learn about the environmental impact of neonicotinoid insecticides, the leading causes of pollinator and wildlife declines, and advocacy strategies to influence policies at both state and federal levels. This presentation will cover neonics’ effects on pollinators, birds, aquatic ecosystems, and human health, as well as solutions to reduce their use in agriculture and landscaping. 

During his Dec. 12 national Wild Ones webinar, Lucas talked about this issue on a national scale. Link to webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kIJ9kisAr8

Our Jan. 21 MN zoom meeting will focus on Minnesota-specific issues. There will be an opportunity to ask questions about what’s going on in Minnesota, with a discussion format. There is also a Minnesota-specific neonic contamination report coming out shortly.

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.

Amy Westbrook, presenter.

 6:30 pm meet & greet, 7:00 program

Learn about the soft-landing concept and the difference they make for healthy trees and the soft spot homes they provide pollinators.

Join local native plant and pollinator promoter, Amy Westbrook, as she explores soft landings, what they are and why they’re essential to pollinator life cycles. This talk defines the concept, outlines plot development, who the plots benefit and what plants to include. Handouts provided.

Amy Westbrook is a native plant consultant and pollinator promoter and educator in Duluth.
She is inspired by the natural world and the animals and insects we share our outdoor spaces with and provides practical tips on supporting pollinators including starting native gardens and enhancing existing ones using local resources. Contact her at 218-213-5056 or email [email protected].

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.

6:30 pm meet & greet/sale, 7:00 video  Popcorn provided!

Spring cleaning book sale of chapter's gardening library (new & used) - Best books sell first, bring cash or check book!

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!