Upcoming events.

Sep
22

Meet your Weeds at the Durham Fair

Join me in the Presidents’ Hall at the Durham Fairgrounds for a talk on what the plants we call “weeds” actually are, what ecological roles they play, and if they’re friend or foe. Learn how to identify some common examples, and where to go for resources to identify others.

The talk itself is free, but a ticket to the Durham Fair is required, you can buy one here or at the gate day of. Please allow at least an hour for parking and getting to the venue. The talk will be held in Presidents’ Hall, which is located on Broadway. The nearest entrance is located at the north end of the Town Green/Town House Road. Paid parking (typically $20 for the closest) can be found at many of the residences along Main Street (park at 63 to see some very familiar gardens!) and neighboring streets. Information on $5 parking at shuttle lots can be found here.

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Aug
3

Birds, Bugs, Plants, and Habitats for Survival

I’ll be joining Birding for Pleasure as the botanical guide on a walk through White’s Farm. In addition to being haven for birds, this wetland property has a lovely variety of native wetland plants.

Join us for a fun walk & talk at White's Farm - an important habitat for the Bobolink, a seed-eating bird that travels all the way from South America to nest in the grasses at the farm. Bobolink are a species of special concern in Connecticut so we will learn how to support their nesting success. During this walk we will observe and count the Bobolink and other bird species as we explore the farm fields. The walk around the farm will not be strenuous (mostly flat) but it is unpaved, and often muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

Heavy rain or lightening cancels.

Birding for Pleasure is a nonprofit whose goal is to engage the Durham and Middlefield communities in conversation, restoration and enjoyment of nature focusing on birds, wildlife and their habitats.

Bring masks, binoculars, drinking water, tick protection and waterproof shoes or boots. Binoculars, through a CVEF Grant, can be checked out at the Durham Public Library during business hours. This free event is open to the public.

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Jul
25

Introduction to Plant Identification

  • The Giving Garden of Durham and Middlefield (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join me on Sunday the 25th at the Giving Garden of Durham and Middlefield for an introduction to plant identification. I’ll discuss what features and characteristics are important to look at when identifying a mystery plant, suggest resources, whether you prefer a book or a phone, and discuss the different roles plants play in the landscape. The focus will be on invasive species, but we’ll touch on natives too, as well as those that fall somewhere in between. Attendees are encouraged to bring a plant for identification. This talk will take place outside in good weather, or indoors on site in the case of rain. The garden and indoor facilities are wheelchair accessible. This talk is free and open to the public.

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Plant Identification Workshop
Jun
9

Plant Identification Workshop

There are over 4,000 species of plants present in Connecticut, and that can make plant identification seem like a daunting task. Learn the basics of plant identification, through a framework of plants you probably already know! We’ll take a walk around the Library property, and you’ll go home comfortable with at least 5 scientific families. Attendees encouraged to bring a plant for identification, please bag anything with seeds or fruit.

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