Central Chapter Events & Activities
For a full list of Central Chapter activities, check out our monthly Newsletter.
On the Horizon
Saturday, January 17
2 – 4pm
2026 Central Chapter Annual Meeting
Holliday Park Nature Center
The Central Chapter board invites all members to join us for our annual meeting, featuring leadership and financial updates, officer elections, projects and events recap from 2025, ways to get involved, and more. The slate for officers up for elections includes: Bobby Avery-Kimball (president), Avery Cyr (vice president), Kathleen Schonschek (treasurer), and Tina Serrano (secretary). The nominations committee includes Greg Monzel (chair), Jonit Bookheim, and Allie Combs. All officers on the slate are currently serving as officers, and have agreed to continue their service with Bobby moving up to president from her current co-VP position with Avery. Greg will continue to serve on the board as past president (an ex-officio position per chapter bylaws). More event details to follow.
Past Events
October 2025
Hike at Koteewi Park with Greg Monzel
Central Chapter invites all Indiana Native Plant Society members to join us for a fun and adventurous hike at Koteewi Prairie Park with the one and only Greg Monzel! Get ready to explore the beautiful trails, enjoy the fresh air, and maybe even spot some wildlife. Central Chapter’s President, Greg Monzel, will be pointing out all the wonderful native species present with tips on indigenous uses. This in person event is perfect for members of INPS who are nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
October 2025
October New Member Meet & Greet
Teresa & Gary Barkwill are leading a new member meet and greet. Our goal is to hold a monthly meeting of new members and have a casual opportunity to meet all of you and give you a chance to meet one another. We also want to make sure you are aware of how to find events and opportunities that are of interest to you such as education, hikes, events, and volunteer opportunities. We want you to get the most out of being a part of INPS that suites your needs. This is our first meet up so the list is entailing the last 3 months of new members to try and catch the newest folks.
Contact Teresa at teresahassler@yahoo.com with any questions.
Special note: For the months of November and December we will not host a meet and greet as to not interfere with holiday madness. We will plan a meet up in Jan once everyone has a bit more time.
October 2025
“Tracking Phenology: exploring the role of timing in nature” – Online presentation by Amanda Wanlass
Discover the fascinating world of phenology—the study of nature’s seasonal rhythms and timing, from the blooming of wildflowers to the migration of birds. This presentation will explore how phenology helps track climate change, influences ecosystems, and connects us more deeply to the natural world. You’ll also learn how citizen science tools like Nature’s Notebook and iNaturalist empower everyday people to observe, record, and share these seasonal changes while contributing to real scientific research.
Our speaker, Amanda Wanlass, is a certified local phenology leader, Executive Director of Indiana Phenology, and Herbarium Assistant at Butler University’s Friesner Herbarium. She holds Master’s degrees in Environmental Science and Public Affairs from Indiana University and brings a wealth of expertise to the topic. Amanda enjoys reading, exploring the outdoors, learning new things, and playing board games in her free time.
October 2025
Fall Social Gathering at Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery
Please join INPS Central Chapter at our fall social gathering! Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery has once again invited our chapter to visit their beautiful property in Hamilton County. The gracious owners will show us their property and how sustainable, regenerative agriculture and ecological farming are used in practice as land management objectives in agroforestry. The ranch features beautiful scenic views, craft wines, pecan and walnut orchards, over 25 varieties of pawpaw trees, lavender, an established purple martin colony, relaxing natural areas to stroll next to the pond, a natural play area for kids, friendly Woolly yaks, Babydoll sheep, Kunekune pigs, and chickens. Beverages, wine, and food will be available for discounted purchase for INPS members. We hope you can join us for a relaxing afternoon on the ranch reconnecting with the land and fellow INPS Central Chapter members.
September 2025
INPS Central Chapter Plant Sale
Come join Central Chapter of Indiana Native Plant Society at Holliday Park Nature Center for our annual Native Plant Sale! Discover a wide variety of beautiful native plants to enhance your garden and support local biodiversity. Our knowledgeable staff will be on hand to provide tips and recommendations for your specific gardening needs. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this event is perfect for plant enthusiasts of all levels. Don’t miss this opportunity to add some unique and sustainable plants to your collection!
September 2025
Social Hike at Thornwood Nature Preserve
Come join us for a refreshing hike through the beautiful Thornwood Nature Preserve. Get ready to explore nature, breathe in the fresh air, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts while immersing yourself in the serene surroundings.
September 2025
Volunteer Weed, Mulch and Planting at Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
Our Landscaping with Natives team designed the native gardens at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art and we continue to support the stewardship of the gardens. Every other Thursday they have a volunteer work party to tend to the gardens. More volunteers are needed to weed, mulch and inter-plant with new plants as needed. This work happens from late march to November. Consider volunteering with this fun group of gardeners. Parking in the garage is validated for all volunteers.
September 2025
September New Member Meet & Greet
Hamilton East Public Library, 5 Municipal Dr. Fishers, IN 46038 in the East Meeting room
Teresa & Gary Barkwill are leading a new member meet and greet. Our goal is to hold a monthly meeting of new members and have a casual opportunity to meet all of you and give you a chance to meet one another. We also want to make sure you are aware of how to find events and opportunities that are of interest to you such as education, hikes, events, and volunteer opportunities.
August 2025
August New Member Meet & Greet
Teresa & Gary Barkwill are leading a new member meet and greet. Our goal is to hold a monthly meeting of new members and have a casual opportunity to meet all of you and give you a chance to meet one another. We also want to make sure you are aware of how to find events and opportunities that are of interest to you such as education, hikes, events, and volunteer opportunities. We want you to get the most out of being a part of INPS that suites your needs. This is our first meet up so the list is entailing the last 3 months of new members to try and catch the newest folks.
August 2025
Volunteer Weed, Mulch and Planting at Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
Our Landscaping with Natives team designed the native gardens at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art and we continue to support the stewardship of the gardens. Every other Thursday they have a volunteer work party to tend to the gardens. More volunteers are needed to weed, mulch and inter-plant with new plants as needed. This work happens from late march to November. Consider volunteering with this fun group of gardeners. Parking in the garage is validated for all volunteers.
You’re welcome to bring your favorite gardening tools! Grounds volunteers, please remember to sign in at the security desk upon arrival. Garden volunteers meet outdoors at the front entrance of the museum.
If you have questions about volunteering, please email Rebecca at teresahassler@yahoo.com or call 317-275-1325.
Register here: https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/131087360096/false#/invitation.
August 2025
Native Seed Packet Packing
In the first week of August, the INPS Central Chapter delivered over 3,000 native seed packets to Pathway to Water Quality at the State Fair! Those packets will be distributed free to fairgoers visiting the exhibit, spreading the seed (literally and figuratively) of native gardening to Hoosiers across our state. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped assemble them! We have approximately 1,500 more to make, so once again we’re asking you to come lend a hand!
August 2025
Native Garden Tour with Garden Advice
Learn firsthand how native plants can bring beauty AND habitat to a suburban yard from experts in your community! Come join us at the Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library – Zionsville Branch.
July 2025
Hike at Camp Cullom
Jeff Swackhamer, the hike leader, looks forward to meeting INPS members interested in a tour of Camp Cullom. Camp Cullom is a 90 acre property with diverse habitats including bottomland hardwoods on the banks of Spring Creek which flows into the South Fork of Wildcat Creek about a quarter mile downstream from our northern property boundary. There’s also upland hardwood forest, approximately 15 acres of native warm-season prairie grass and wildflowers, two wetlands, and a pond. The amenities on the property include a lodge constructed in 1952, a nature center, a highly rated disc golf course, a maple sugar shack, a home for our caretaker, a playground, and one of the best privately owned astronomical observatories in the state of Indiana.
July 2025
“Native Plants as Party Invitations!” – Zoom presentation with the Owner, Jared the Nature Guy LLC
♥ View on YouTube
Native plants aren’t just pretty… they’re party invitations! School naturalist Jared Goodykoontz shares tips on engaging youth with nature using games. He created the Native Plant Party card game focused on faunal associations. Jared shows how to use his fun Native Plant Party game in group settings and discuss the lessons at the core of his game, as well as other fun ways to engage others in loving nature.
June 2025
“Amphibians and Snakes of Indiana: Habitats” – Zoom presentation with Jim Horton
♥ View on YouTube
Learn about the cool critters that call Indiana home, like frogs, toads, salamanders, and snakes! Jim Horton is a life-long nature enthusiast who has served on the board of the Hoosier Herpetological Society for 19 years and is its current president. Jim edits the monthly newsletter, the Monitor; co-coordinates the Central Indiana Frog Watch chapter; and gives presentations on Indiana herpetology throughout the state. With his wife Pam, he operates Indiana Jim’s Reptile Experience, a wildlife education program.
June 2025
Educational Hike at Wolf Park
Learn all about wolves and their natural habitat while enjoying a scenic walk through the park. Enjoy a personalized journey through Wolf Park, tailored to your interests, as you get an up-close look at our ambassador animals and learn about their care, behaviors, and conservation.
May 2025
“Furbearers in Indiana and Habitat Improvement” – Zoom presentation with Geriann Albers
♥ View on YouTube
Get to know the furry native animals of Indiana and the habitats they rely upon. Furbearers include medium and small carnivores, two rodents, and our native marsupial. From raccoons to muskrats to river otters, learn about a few of the animals that might frequent your yard or share your neighborhood. We will also discuss native plants to add to your property to help support the furry creatures. Geriann Albers is Furbearer and Turkey Program Leader for the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
May 2025
Hike at Bartley Ridge Trail, Yellowwood State Forest
INPS members are invited to join Allisyn Gillet, state ornithologist, and Rae Garrett, HEE field coordinator, for a birding tour of the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE). The HEE is a 100 year long study out of Morgan-Monroe and Yellowwood State Forest focused on forest management and its impacts on flora and fauna. Attendees will participate in a somewhat rugged hike in an actively managed forest with burned and harvested areas.
March 2025
“Native Plant Habitat During Wildlife Baby Season” – Zoom presentation with Rebecca Hamon
♥ View on YouTube
Native species to support wildlife in urban areas are wonderful, but sometimes, even with pockets of native plantings, our urban environment creates challenges for wildlife, causing orphaned or abandoned babies. As the caretaker of plots of wildlife habitat, speaker Rebecca Hamon educates us on what to do if we encounter wildlife in crisis. Rebecca is the Director of Hoosier Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, which cares for injured, orphaned, and sick native wildlife in Central Indiana.
February 2025
“Native Plants as Delicious Herbal Teas–Let’s Make Some!” – Zoom presentation with Greg Monzel
♥ View on YouTube
Making tea from dried plants is inexpensive and can be effective for home remedies. Greg Monzel covers six native medicinal plants and how they are used, and demonstrates an herbal tea brewing. Co-founder of Persimmon Herb School, Greg focuses his lessons around a deep connection to the healing power of nature. He is an experienced organic gardener, naturalist, and educator with complementary expertise in community herbalism.
January 2025
” Eagle Marsh Restoration—The HOW and the WHY” – Zoom Presentation with Betsy Yankowiak
♥ View on YouTube
Learn about the importance of Eagle Marsh and the steps involved in restoring this vital ecosystem. Betsy Yankowiak shares insights and inspires you to get involved in conservation efforts. Betsy Yankowiak is the past Director of Preserves and Programs at the Little River Wetlands Project, the land trust that manages Eagle Marsh. She is a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner with the Society of Ecological Restoration.
January 2025
Icebreaker and Members Annual Meeting
This is an opportunity for us to catch up in person, re-cap what the chapter has been up to for the past year, and discuss what we are envisioning for the upcoming year, including an opportunity for all members to share their thoughts on what we should be doing.
November 2024
Hike at Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary
Join the Central Chapter of INPS hiking Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary to observe nature as it transitions to dormancy. The Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary is owned and operated by the Indiana Audubon Society and should make for a wonderful Fall hike!
October 2024
“Native Bees and Pollinator Gardens: Make the Connection” – Zoom Presentation with Marissa Renz
Join us to explore the fascinating world of native bees and the importance of pollinator gardens. Learn how to create a welcoming environment for these essential pollinators and discover the benefits they bring to our ecosystem. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts and gain valuable insights into supporting local bee populations. Register now to secure your spot!
September 2024
“Bats as Native Plant Stewards” – Zoom presentation with Bob Walton
Explore the essential role that bats play in our ecosystem as native plant stewards. Learn about the unique relationship between bats and native plants, and how these fascinating creatures contribute to the health of our environment. Discover the importance of preserving bat habitats and how you can support conservation efforts. Bob Walton of Going Bats will introduce us to bats, share their value to humans and the environment, and will discuss their importance as pollinators and the role resident Indiana bats play in protecting our native plants. Over two decades, Bob and his wife have rescued more than 2,300 bats of 7 different species with a 93% release rate. Bob is a licensed rehabber, has attended multiple bat trainings, and enjoys donating his time to providing free educational programs to schools, community groups, and IMN programs.
September 2024
Social Gathering at Woolly Yak Ranch
Join INPS Central Chapter for a fun-filled Fall Family Social Event at Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery in Arcadia. The owners of the Ranch are new INPS members and have graciously opened their beautiful property to the Central Chapter for an afternoon of tours, exploring, socializing, and a pitch-in, potluck picnic. (We may even luck into a PawPaw tasting, if they are ripe.)
August 2024
Native Plant Sale at Holliday Park Nature Center
August 2024
“Building Backyard Habitat” – Zoom presentation with Jessica Merkling
♥ View on YouTube
Explore the world of native landscaping and its impact on wildlife in suburban areas. Learn how to create a backyard oasis that attracts beautiful birds, butterflies, and other fascinating creatures. Your backyard could be the perfect place for wildlife to call home. With the right habitat, you can help Indiana’s wildlife survive and thrive. Jessica Merkling, Urban Wildlife biologist with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, will explain what you can do to build a backyard habitat every critter wants to find.
August 2024
Hike at Avon Outdoor Learning Center
We are excited to invite you to the Avon Outdoor Learning Center, a unique 7-acre outdoor classroom established in 1985 by the principal of Maple Elementary, Lloyd Winger. The center features an 1840s cabin, an amphitheater, a stream, a small prairie planted with a grant from INPS (formerly “INPAWS”), and much more. Led by Carol Ford, a longtime volunteer, who began her journey in 1995 with no knowledge of native or invasive plants. Over the years, “Clueless Carol” has transformed into a passionate advocate working with many volunteers to remove invasive species and nurture the native seeds that were always present.
July 2024
“For the Love of Lepidoptera: Moths and Butterflies Deserve Your Garden Love” – Zoom presentation with Lior Carlson
Learn how to attract these fluttering friends with the right plants and create a haven for them to thrive. Discover the importance of these pollinators and how you can help conserve their habitats. Lior Carlson of Backyard Butterflies will teach simple steps to take that have a big impact on gardening for Lepidoptera, such as focusing on keystone species, planting host and nectar plants, lazy or messy gardening, no pesticides, and understanding that you want your plants to be eaten. Lepidoptera life cycles will be explained, including the role of host plants in your garden! You will get a basic introduction to moths, their importance, and how to conduct a moth survey and the additional insects that will be attracted to a collecting sheet.
June 2024
“Native Plant Gardening for Hummingbirds” – Zoom presentation with Brian MacGowan
Speaker Brian MacGowan, Extension Wildlife Specialist with the Department of Forestry & Natural Resources at Purdue University, helps you understand the colorful visitors, their nesting behavior, and important plants for backyard habitats. It may surprise you to learn their favorite food sources and the mixture of plant species providing ideal habitat conditions for them to prosper. We invite you to learn more about these flying pieces of iridescent art.
June 2024
Nature Hike at Celery Bog in West Lafayette (Members Only)
Listed by DNR’s Indiana Natural Heritage Program as one of the “significant sites” in the state, Celery Bog contains five wetland basins covering 105 acres. Many amphibious creatures attracted to its rich and unique wetland habitat can be viewed during the hike. Kyle Gebhart, Parks Naturalist for West Lafayette Parks & Recreation, led the hike.
April 2024
“Plants for Pollinators: Getting Reliably Safe Plants” – Zoom presentation with Sharon Selvaggio
♥ View on YouTube
Wondering how to ensure the plants you buy are safe for pollinators from the start? Sharon Selvaggio, Pesticide Program Specialist at The Xerces Society, will discuss why choosing pollinator-safe nurseries is important and how plant buyers can evaluate nursery practices. She will also introduce Xerces’ model for obtaining pollinator-safe native plants in quantity. Tiny, inconspicuous and unappreciated species hold our world together. On their behalf, Sharon Selvaggio, a staff member in The Xerces Society’s Pesticide Program, works to help people recognize the risks of pesticides and move away from pesticide reliance toward more prevention-based pest management. Sharon is a former biologist and refuge manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and prior to Xerces, worked for several years with Northwest Center for Alternatives to Pesticides.
April 2024
Members Only Spring Hike at Holliday Park
Join Norma Wallman and fellow INPS members to discover the native (and maybe some non-native) spring ephemerals on the trails at Holliday Park. We will identify the flowers and talk about some plant behaviors. If you have a copy of Norma’s Wildflowers of Holliday Park, bring it for reference and we may try some identification apps.
May 2024
Members Only Hike at Shrader-Weaver Nature Preserve
Get ready to immerse yourself in the lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the preserve including an old growth forest, floodplain, a seep spring, and an incredible mix of wildflowers. Blue-eyed Mary should be in full bloom. Dawn Slack, Indiana Director of Stewardship for The Nature Conservancy will lead the hike pointing out native and invasive species along the way.
May 2024
“Control Pests in the Garden Without Toxic Chemicals” – Zoom presentation with Dan Norris
♥ View on YouTube
Wondering how to control various kinds of pests (invasive weeds, rodents and harmful insects) in an organic way without toxic chemicals? Dan Norris, Certified Turfgrass Professional with Good Nature Organic Lawn Care, has over 22 years of experience teaching people how this can be done. His organization promotes practices focusing on use of compost tea, natural plant oils, beneficial natural organisms and organic weed suppressors to keep your landscape looking great, without chemicals. Instead of synthetic chemical insecticides, such as pyrethroids and neonicotinoids, natural plant extracts can be used to keep pesky bugs from ruining your day.
April 2024
Garlic Mustard Pull at Newfields Art & Nature Park
Come pull this invasive, destructive and edible plant with us–before it goes to seed!! Stick around afterwards to learn how to make delicious pesto from this pesky invasive plant, with our very own Patty Sanders! Please bring gloves, water and dress appropriately for the weather. This event is co-hosted by Newfields, Indiana Native Plant Society, and Purdue Extension Marion County.
March 2024
“Pesticide Use in Garden Settings” – Zoom presentation with Ellen Jacquart
♥ View on YouTube
This program covers the categories of pesticides and the risks vs. benefits of commonly used pesticides. Learn about the insect apocalypse, the impact of neonicotinoid use by growers, how to recognize a “real” problem, and the safe use of pesticides. Ellen Jacquart has spent a career managing natural areas in Indiana, working for the Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service, and the Indiana Chapter of The Nature Conservancy before retiring in 2016. A major focus of her work was to address the threat of invasive plants to forests, prairies, and wetlands. When the Indiana Invasive fSpecies Council created the Invasive Plant Advisory Committee in 2010, she led it until she retired in 2016. She now chairs Monroe County – Identify and Reduce Invasive Species (MC-IRIS) which works to reduce the impact of invasive plants in Monroe County. Ellen was president of the statewide Indiana Native Plant Society from 2018 to 2022.
February 2024
“Hellbender Biology and Conservation in Southern Indiana” – Zoom presentation with Nick Burgmeier
♥ View on YouTube
In Indiana, the eastern hellbender population has been reduced to only the Blue River in southern Indiana. However, several Ohio River tributaries seem to possess suitable hellbender habitat. Nick Burgmeier, Research Biologist and Extension Wildlife Specialist for the Dept. of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, evaluates the environmental conditions in these tributaries to determine if the habitat, water quality, and food base would be suitable for hellbender repatriation. Expanding hellbender populations to additional suitable habitat will ensure Indiana’s hellbenders are protected from stochastic events and will help restore these river systems to a more functional state. Nick’s work focuses on two separate facets of the eastern hellbender conservation: 1) species repatriation and 2) outreach and education. He also works with landowners to improve water quality. One of the main drivers of hellbender decline has been poor water quality and sedimentation. Currently, Nick is developing presentations and programs to help encourage landowners in southern Indiana to adopt practices that will reduce water pollution. If successful, these programs should ultimately help to improve aquatic resources, including habitat for the hellbender.
January 2024
“A Truly Green Lawn” – Zoom presentation with Justin Curley
♥ View on YouTube
Learn how to have a thriving lawn by optimizing turf grass health through cultural practices. We will learn about practical organic alternatives that exist for the typical home lawn care regimen without chemicals! Also discussed will be defining the use and purpose of your lawn space. This program is presented by Justin Curley, a graduate of Penn State and Indiana State University. Justin spent a decade as a golf course superintendent in Central Pennsylvania before finding his true calling with Purdue Extension. He is now the regional extension turf expert with Purdue Extension and conducts lawn and turf programming throughout the region. His current passion project is teaching people that it is possible to have a quality lawn without using pesticides and synthetic fertilizers!
October 2023
Central Chapter Native Plant Sale at the Holliday Park Nature Center, Indianapolis
Fall is a perfect time to plant native plants. The cooler temperatures, reliable rainfall, and short, bright days help plants make a quick and easy transition to your landscape. Plants have a longer time to develop strong roots to prepare them for the hot, dry conditions of summer. Central Indiana Land Trust and Native Plants Unlimited have donated a large selection of native perennials, and some trees and shrubs are coming from Woody Warehouse. We also welcome extra native plants dug from your yard. To prevent the possible spread of the invasive Asian Jumping Worms, please pot up donations according to the guidelines on the INPS website. https://indiananativeplants.org/2024/asian-jumping-worms-preventing-their-spread-in-pant-sales/
October 2023
“Leave the Leaves: Native Garden Winterization” – Zoom presentation with Lisa Milton
♥ View on YouTube
As winter approaches, learn how to best manage your garden for wildlife. It is obvious how native plants provide important resources for pollinators during the growing season, but these plants also provide critical habitat and food resources throughout the winter. This talk will show how to tidy up and winterize your garden while helping insects and other wildlife get the most out of it. Lisa Milton, Manager of Natural Resources at Newfields, will outline the management practices and timelines used at The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park at Newfields and will advise on how to apply these practices to your home garden while keeping a clean aesthetic your neighbors can appreciate.
September 2023
“Photography—Capturing your Own Creativity” – Zoom presentation with Kate Hart
♥ View on YouTube
Everyone is a photographer! Unlock your “inner creativity” when taking photos of nature, landscape, gardens, self-portraits, and wildlife by learning some new ways of capturing your own style of art. This program is presented by Kate Hart who has had her own photography social media page for 10 years. She is also an Advanced Master Gardener. One of her photos was recently chosen as the First Place Photography Award Winner with INPS. Her photographs have been featured by several National Gardening Companies. In addition to being a photographer, she is a gardener and landscaper. She is the website, social media and Publication Chair for the Indianapolis Hosta Society and helps with social media with several other Garden Clubs. She is a member of INPS, Friends of Broad Ripple Park, Broad Ripple Garden Club, American Hosta Society, Herb Society of Central IN, and American Conifer Society, just to mention a few.
July 2023
Members Only Bat Night Hike at Marian University’s Nina Mason Pulliam Ecolab
The EcoLab’s wetlands transform into a bat paradise in the summer time. Ecolab Restoration Ecologist Sarah Downing will guide you to discover more about these flying mammals and other nocturnal animals. You can also try your hand at special technology that can identify bats through their echolocation. We will be walking around the pond and although there is a small staircase, this is an easy hike. Boots are suggested, as are long sleeves or bug spray.
July 2023
“Land Stewardship: The Greatest Threats to Hoosier Habitats & Biodiversity” – Zoom presentation with Jacob Brinkman
♥ View on YouTube
How do natural areas make communities healthier and more resilient to climate change? Learn how the Indianapolis Office of Land Stewardship is working to manage and protect natural areas in a growing urban landscape. This presentation will cover strategies for successful ecological restoration and increasing impact through partnerships and community engagement.
June 2023
“Indiana Nature Preserves” – Zoom presentation with Central Indiana Land Trust
♥ View on YouTube
The natural areas in the central portion of Indiana are in some cases undervalued. Not only are they important to our personal well-being, but they also foster much beauty for those who have eyes to see it, especially if you know where to look! That’s where conservation organizations like Central Indiana Land Trust (CILTI) come in. Our mission at CILTI is to preserve the best of central Indiana’s natural areas, protecting 6,500 acres of habitat for plants and animals while providing a place for all Hoosiers to experience the wonder of our state’s natural heritage. There are some preserves we think everyone should know about. Each preserve has its own unique qualities that sets it apart and gives it an important role in our planet’s ecosystem. This presentation will discuss some of CILTI’s nature preserves, as well as why and how we are protecting these special places in central Indiana.
May 2023
“Landscape Invaders: Exotic Forest Bugs and More” – Zoom presentation with Bob Bruner
♥ View on YouTube
Bob Bruner, with Purdue University, offers a look at a variety of invasive species that are impacting Indiana, or soon will be. He covers insects such as the spotted lanternfly, spongy moth, and other pests of concern that can bridge the gap between urban forests and landscaped areas. He also covers hot-topic pests, particularly the Asian jumping worm, as well as invasive pathogens like beech leaf disease and thousand canker disease.
April 2023
“Botanical Time Bombs: A Historical Look at the Accidental and Intentional Introductions of Indiana’s Invasive Plants” – Zoom presentation with Steve Sass and Amanda Smith
♥ View on YouTube
You may know many of the 126 plants currently listed as “officially invasive” in Indiana, but do you know the history of their arrival? In this program, Steve Sass and Amanda Smith of Indiana Nature LLC will take a historical journey from European settlement to the current day tracing how these species found their way to the United States. The program will reflect upon the historical factors that contributed to their arrival and examine the lessons learned and unlearned.
March 2023
“Remediation of a Gravel Pit at Newfields” – Zoom presentation with Lisa Milton
♥ View on YouTube
The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is a 100-acre park in Indianapolis. And has a unique history of land management. As former agricultural land that was utilized as a gravel pit in the 1960s and 1970s, the land that is now Fairbanks Park was left to naturalize for decades with no development or rehabilitation. The species which characterize the composition of the park are those which colonized the disturbed land over this naturalization period and are largely invasive and undesired. Prior to intensive land management, data collection began in the park in 2004. The study was replicated in 2019 to evaluate the land management’s impact on species composition.
February 2023
Winter Icebreaker in Indianapolis
The Winter Icebreaker is a time for Central Chapter members to come together to catch up, celebrate the passing season and talk plans for the coming season. It is an informal potluck—bring your favorite dish and/or beverage to share!
February 2023
“All About Rain Gardens” – Speaker Claire Lane
♥ View on YouTube
Did you know a 2,000 square foot house in Central Indiana will produce ~50,000 gallons of runoff every year? In most residential or urban neighborhoods, 20-30% of that water runs off to storm drains then, untreated, to our lakes, rivers, and streams. Join us to learn how we can create rain gardens on our properties to infiltrate some of that water back into the ground, reduce flooding, provide pollinator habitat, and protect our rivers and lakes. Rain gardens are shallow, bowl-shaped landscaping features planted with native species that capture and treat stormwater runoff from rain events. Rain gardens are utilized on residential and small commercial properties to mimic the natural hydro-logical cycle whereby rainfall soaks into the ground rather than running off the landscape and polluting local creeks, streams, and rivers. This infiltration helps to mitigate flooding in localized areas such as neighborhoods, streets and streams. Rain gardens also provide important habitat to support beneficial insects and pollinators that can help improve local water quality.
October 2022
Steve’s Top Ten Garden Tools and other Unique Favorites – In-person presentation by Steve Cline
A LIVE presentation at Lawrence Branch Library, 7898 Hague Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46256. Steve will discuss and demonstrate various garden tools, explain advantages, proper
use and care of tools. There will also be a handout which will include websites of all the tools demonstrated, where to find pictures, prices, more detailed info and a list of the complete gardening tool bucket. This program is open to everyone. Registration not required.
Steve Cline retired after 51 years working as a pharmacist. Immediately after retirement he took Purdue’s Master Gardener class in 2015. He volunteers as a team leader in the AAS award winning Demonstration Garden at the State Fairgrounds, helps in the gardens at Holliday Park, Northview Church in Carmel as a grounds team leader and is on the Marion County Master Gardener Association Board of Directors as the Recording Secretary. He is a five year member of INPS and a 43 year member of the premier men’s Barbershop Chorus and The Circle City Sound in Indianapolis. He is married with 5 children, and has several grandchildren and great -grandchildren.
October 2022
Take Flight! A Raptor Evening at Oliver’s Woods
Join Central Indiana Land Trust and Take Flight!
Wildlife Education to meet several species of live raptors up close and learn about the amazing adaptations that make these birds so special.
September 2022
Monarch Tagging Program with Indiana Wildlife Federation
Join Central Indiana Land Trust and Indiana Wildlife Federation for a hands-on community science event to help document the monarchs’ fall migration at Nonie Werbe Krauss Nature Preserve, 10910 Eller Rd, Fishers.
Suggested attire: Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos. Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
September 2022
“Perceived Pests in the Garden” – Zoom presentation with Brad Westrich
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You may have experienced some frustration when your last native planting was rudely pruned or worse, girdled. The instigator may have been deer, voles, or moles. Brad Westrich, a Mammalogist with Indiana DNR, will discuss the biology and habits of some of these mammals. Plus, learn ways to deter these animals from becoming a pest in the first place. At the very least, you may leave with a greater appreciation for the daily plight these mammals face. You will also learn about a reporting tool for some uncommon backyard mammals.
Brad Westrich has been the Mammalogist with Indiana DNR since 2018. He has a diverse work history as an ecologist working with animals ranging from fish in Utah and New Mexico, birds in Central America and Florida, and Mammals across the Southwestern US. He received his Bachelors of Science in Conservation Ecology from New Mexico State University, and later his Masters of Science in Biology with a focus on Disease Ecology from Texas State University. Currently, Brad can be found working with bats, rodents, bears, and rabbits across Indiana.
October 2022
McCloud Nature Park Hike
We will wander the trails looking for any late blooming flowers, do some tree ID, and maybe find some insects and birds along the way. Bring boots as there may be some water to cross. McCloud has 232 acres of woods, glacial ravines, prairie and creek with 6.5 miles of well-marked trails, fishing, wading, canoeing and kayaking in Big Walnut Creek. Why not make it a full day of fun activities after the hike?
September 2022
“Shifting Baselines: Indiana’s Natural Landscape of 1816 and Today” – Zoom presentation with Michael Homoya
The September 12th meeting of the Marion County Master Gardeners’ Association will be held at the Riviera Club, at 5640 N. Illinois Street, Indianapolis, with a special program featuring a presentation by Michael Homoya. A noted botanist and plant ecologist, Mike has authored numerous scientific papers and books about Indiana’s natural landscape, flowers and trees.
July 2022
“Foraging and Native Plant Conservation: Expanding the Ecological Self” – Zoom presentation with Greg Monzel
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Humans have a fraught relationship with the natural world. Modern humans are obsessed with controlling and extracting value from natural spaces, often to the detriment of people and nature alike. For most of human existence, we depended on hunting and gathering wild foods for sustenance, which tied people directly to their habitats. Unfortunately, foraging and forestry practices have been extractive in the colonial expansion of early America, resulting in precipitous decline of plant diversity and damage to their habitats. This program will make the case that thoughtful foraging of wild foods and medicines can help restore connections between people and nature, increasing the value of forests and other habitats to support their conservation. We will look at how hunting practices and policies can inform foraging policies and conservation efforts, and perhaps make foraging less taboo in conservation circles.
June 2022
“Working with Diverse Communities in Conservation” – Zoom presentation with Rebecca Calvert
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Join INPS Central Chapter for a presentation by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful Director of Community Engagement, Rebecca Calvert. This program will be virtual on Tuesday, June 21st at 7pm. Rebecca will discuss Assisting Neighbors in Beautification, Adopt-a-Block, Great Indy Cleanup, Tree Applications, Native Plant Sales, Invasive Habitat Removal and Habitat Restoration, examples of plants and flowers that are used, KIB’s Community Engagement, tree planting selection method and process and the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan. Rebecca’s background is in education and human development. She was raised in southern California. Her favorite place in Indy is Eagle Creek.
June 2022
Teter Retreat & Organic Farm Hike
At Teter, you will be able to see the various projects underway to rebuild soil so that plants can thrive, building habitat for wild animals as well as humans. The Peace Garden and Educational Trail is an endeavor still in its beginning stages. The Conservation reserve is an early successional stage for plants and the woodlands are important riparian bottomlands that hold and filter floodwaters. The organic vegetable fields and hoop houses grow food using the wisdom of nature and farmer ingenuity.
May 2022
MacGregor Park Hike
Join other INPS Central Chapter members for an easy walk/hike at 21105 MacGregor Park Rd. Westfield, IN 46074. The park is located close to US 31 and SR 38.
The hike will be led by naturalist Dan Popiela. Dan has been a naturalist at Cool Creek Park for many years and will share his knowledge on ways to ID flowers and trees. He will discuss spring flowers that are blooming along the path and in the fields. Markine Sipes, who works for Westfield/Washington Twp. Parks Dept. will also be joining the group to share the history of the park.
April 2022
Wildflower Walk at Burnett Woods in Avon
Join Central Indiana Land Trust’s stewardship team for a wildflower walk at this state-dedicated nature preserve in Avon. Burnett Woods is well-known for its ephemerals.
Burnett Woods, 8264 E County Road 100 S Avon, IN.
March 2022
“Newfields From Past to Present, the Creation of a Nature Park”
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Experience one of Indianapolis hidden gems. Travel back in time to the days of past, and see the visions of the future; along the floodplains of White River and experience the humble beginnings of a now world class park. Botanist Greg Butts, the Art & Nature Park Coordinator at Newfields will guide us on the history and future visions for the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park at Newfields. A park that is looking to change the perception of intercity parks to a place on natural beauty. Working only with native plants to create a place at the intersection of Art and Nature.