Events

Presentation by Craig Shafer on working with your collected natives seeds.  How to get them to grow- tips and tricks.

We prepared seed packages for distribution to the public through local seed libraries and other public venues

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.

Designing Your Landscape with Native Plants March 10th, 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Martha Holzheuer, landscape ecologist and owner of Nature Niche, a local Midland gift and supply store, will discuss how to get started with native plant landscaping.  Learn how to create a landscape design for your yard utilizing native trees, shrubs, wildflowers, grasses, and ferns.  Martha will discuss types of gardens such as butterfly, pollinator, and bird-friendly and the planning basics you'll need to successfully landscape your yard with native species.  Many of the plants discussed will be available at Nature Niche's periodic native plant sales during the 2025 growing season. This program will take place at the Chippewa Nature Center, 400 S. Badour Road, Midland, MI. Meet at the Visitor Center. The public is welcome to attend.

Speaker Bio: Martha is the owner of Nature Niche, a nature-focused gift and supply store on the north side of Midland.  She spent ~15 years working as a landscape ecologist and an environmental consultant, specializing in threatened and endangered species protection and permitting, native plant design, invasive species management, wildlife habitat enhancement, and ecological restoration.  Before that, she taught woody plants field labs while securing dual Masters Degrees in Terrestrial (Forest) Ecology and Landscape Architecture at the School of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.  She's a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner, Professional Landscape Architect registered in Michigan, Certified Ecologist, and Certified Arborist and serves as a board member for the Society for Ecological Restoration Midwest-Great Lakes Chapter and Michigan Wetlands Association.  She loves botanizing and gardening with native plants, nature photography and art, helping people learn about and connect with nature, strategizing to protect rare species, gift giving, and making people happy.

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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 Mid-Mitten Member Rand Kursinsky as he presents information on how to landscape for wildlife.  In addition to planting native plants, there are other techiques that can be applied to your landscaping to encourage local fauna.  Randy will give examples of what he has accomplished on his own property and their results.

ReLeaf Michigan invites you to learn about the latest tree diseases and insect pests from Gary Eichen, certified Arborist and Assistant Service Line Director for Plant Health Care and Lawn Care for SavATree LLC. He will cover insects and diseases affecting Michigan trees and how to protect your trees from them. This presentation is made available through grant funding from the Consumers Energy Foundation with support from Chippewa Nature Center and the Wild Ones Mid-Mitten Chapter.

ReLeaf Michigan offers educational presentations and workshops for homeowners throughout Michigan, each one tailored to the needs of the community. This in-person session is a valuable opportunity for residents to hear expert advice, ask questions, and gain an understanding of how we each can do our part to help trees stay healthy for many years into the future.

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!