Stretch Your Nature Knowledge at Branching Out Conservation Chat
As interest in habitat stewardship and connecting with nature continues to grow nationwide, Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is helping local residents deepen their understanding through a new educational series designed to empower and inspire.
The Branching Out Conservation Chat, part two in a three-part habitat stewardship series, will take place on Friday, September 6, from 9 a.m. to noon at the district’s Hazel Willis Woods outdoor learning laboratory near Mifflin.
“Although this is the second session in our series, each event is designed to stand on its own and provide unique, valuable insights,” said Holly Hale, Natural Resources Assistant at Ashland SWCD. “We’re excited to offer opportunities for community members to learn more about environmental sustainability and practical ways they can become better habitat stewards.”
The “Branching Out” session will feature presentations from local experts on two key topics:
Jane Todd will discuss the importance of protecting pollinators and their habitats through the Monarch Safe Fields initiative.
Jennifer Windus, representing the Ohio Natural Areas and Preserves Association, will share her expertise on invasive plant control and rare plant monitoring.
Hale will conclude the event with a tour of the new pollinator habitat area at Hazel Willis Woods and will highlight volunteer opportunities including invasive plant removal projects and educational outreach programs.
The Conservation Chat series kicked off in June with a focus on native plants and wildflowers. The final event in the series, Don’t Get Stumped, will take place in November and cover tree healthcare and risk management.
Tickets are $10 and include a light breakfast. Register online at habitatsteward2of3.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit the Ashland SWCD office at 110 Cottage Street, Ashland, or call 419-281-7645.
