4th Annual Midwest Native Plant Conference

A variety of recognized experts will present informational sessions and field trips to explore native landscaping, forests, wetlands, and prairies—together with the diverse wildlife that depends on these native habitats. Visit with vendors who offer native plants, books, artwork and other items to stimulate your enthusiasm and spirit.

Conference highlights include keynote speakers: Ian Adams, environmental photographer, presenting "Gossamer Wings - The World of Dragonflies and Damselflies"; Marielle Anzelone, Urban Plant Ecologist in New York City, will talk on greening the urban environment through ecosystem stewardship – showing how even the densest city can help protect endangered species through a combination of habitat preservation and landscaping centered on native plants in public and private landscapes. On Saturday evening, David Wagner, an entomologist and a professor of ecology and evolutionary biology, will give an informative and lively talk on Caterpillars. He is the author of Caterpillars of Eastern North America, widely regarded as one of the most authoritative field guides on caterpillars. Afterwards, we will venture outside with vapor lights and flashlights to find some of these beautiful and often strange looking creatures that are often only seen at night.