Events

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.

Join us tonight for an insightful Zoom presentation on "Native Plants for a Healthy Environment," led by Anthony Marinello, a recognized expert in native landscaping and the proud owner of Dropseed Native Landscapes and Dropseed Nursery, located in Malverne, NY.

Anthony holds several certifications, including a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, a Landscape Design Certificate, and is a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner. 

In 2020 he founded Dropseed Native Landscapes to provide Long Islanders with the guidance and ability to transform their island into a Native Plant Oasis to sustain both humans and wildlife alike.

​In January of 2021, Anthony was voted in as a Board Member of the Long Island Native Plant Initiative (LINPI), remaining on for three years while serving as secretary for two.

Anthony continues to expand his knowledge and understanding of the natural landscape, holding the following certifications: Certified Nursery & Landscape Professional (CNLP) - NYS Nursery & Landscape Association​, Habitat and Ecosystems Land Professional- National Audubon Society​, Certificate in Permaculture Design - Center for Bioregional Living

​Anthony has been regularly featured in local and online media, such as Newsday and Yale e360, for his work as a native plant gardener and influencer, as well as his work educating the public on the ecological benefits of native plants.In addition to his work with Dropseed, 

In this presentation, Anthony will explore the importance of native plants in fostering biodiversity, improving soil health, and enhancing the overall environment. He will share practical tips on selecting and maintaining native plant species, as well as their benefits for wildlife and our communities.

Don’t miss the chance to learn from Anthony’s extensive knowledge and passion for cultivating healthier, more sustainable landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this presentation will equip you with valuable insights to make a positive impact on your environment. Join us and discover how native plants can transform your outdoor spaces!

Please join at 7pm ET! 

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81633685965?pwd=z35ZNLW3Q8gQmDdb2DxBj6FBQvz5d7.1&jst=2

Join Wild Ones National Board President Loris Damerow for a special presentation as part of Week 3 of the 2025 Less Lawn More Life Challenge, “Native Plants Planted Right.” Loris will walk us through the basics of native plant gardening- from choosing the right plants to planting and maintaining them with confidence.

Join us on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 5 p.m. CT for the YouTube Live premiere of this 30-minute webinar. Native plant experts from  Wild Ones, Plan it Wild, Homegrown National Park, ReWild Your Campus, and others will be active in the live chat throughout the presentation and for 30 minutes after the webinar, giving you plenty of time to ask questions and engage! 

This event is designed for newcomers to native gardening and is part of the national Less Lawn More Life Challenge, hosted by Plan It Wild in collaboration with Wild Ones, iNaturalist, Homegrown National Park, Pollinator Partnership  and many others! 

See more about the Less Lawn More Life Challenge:  https://www.lesslawnmorelife.com/ 

Join renowned ecologist Tom Wessels as he leads an interpretive forest walk here at Lasdon Park

Lasdon Park and Wild Ones Lower Hudson Valley are thrilled to welcome acclaimed ecologist and author Tom Wessels for a special interpretive forest walk, “Reading the Landscape.” This rare opportunity will offer participants an in-depth exploration of the park’s forested landscapes, as Wessels shares his expertise in interpreting the natural history of the land through ecological patterns and clues.

Wessels, a terrestrial ecologist and professor emeritus at Antioch University New England, has spent decades studying and teaching forest ecology, conservation, and sustainability. He is the author of several influential books, including Reading the Forested Landscape: A Natural History of New England, which has inspired countless naturalists and conservationists to deepen their understanding of woodland ecosystems.

“We are incredibly excited to host Tom Wessels in Westchester County Parks,” said Allison O’Rourke, President of Wild Ones Lower Hudson Valley. “His knowledge and storytelling ability bring the forest to life in ways that transform how we see the land around us. This walk will be an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in ecology, conservation, or simply deepening their connection with nature.”

For more information and to reserve a spot, please visit Wild Ones Lower Hudson Valley.

The closing event of this year’s Less Lawn More Life Challenge, will be led by Lisa Olsen, Chapter Liaison at Wild Ones. In this webinar, you’ll learn how small, personal actions like planting native species and removing invasives, can ripple outward to inspire neighbors, change policies, and reshape communities. 

During the premiere, native plant experts from Wild Ones and collaborating organizations will be active in the live chat. They’ll be ready to answer questions, share tips, and connect viewers with resources. The live chat will remain open for 30 minutes after the webinar, giving you plenty of time to ask questions and engage. Please note: You must be logged into a YouTube account to participate in the chat. 

The Less Lawn More Life Challenge is a free, 12-week action series designed to help people transform traditional lawns into vibrant, life-supporting native plant habitat. Each week, participants complete a simple challenge like planting a native shrub, removing invasives, or observing pollinators to reimagine their outdoor space and take meaningful steps toward restoring biodiversity at home. 

It’s not too late to get involved. Catch up on the weekly videos and start your rewilding journey today at https://www.lesslawnmorelife.com/ 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!