Events

Winter is a perfect time to plan what natives you want to plant come spring. In February you'll be able (if you're a member) to pre-order plants. Hop onto Zoom on Thursday, January 16th at 7:00 to be inspired and informed by Denise Sandoval. Learn what native plants can keep your gardens blooming through the seasons.

Burn off the excess Valentine's Day candy and join us for a walk at Les Arends Forest Preserve with Naturalist Barb McKittrick.  

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.

Learn about plants native to Illinois that will work and spruce up your homelandscape! Matt Hokanson will discuss elements of good garden design including planning, native plant selection, preparing your garden space for planting, and plant spacing. Ideas for plant combinations will also be shared for various settings!

Matt is the co-owner of Woods to Wetlands, an ecological services company that specializes in natural area restoration and landscaping with native plants. He is also a certified arborist, prescription burn manager and has been learning how to propagate rare native plant species at home for volunteer restoration initiatives.

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.

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!