Would you like to learn how to transform your yard? This workshop will cover site selection, soil types, plant selection, rain gardens to pollinator gardens. Do you know how to attract butterflies? Not just any flower will do. To find out how to attract wildlife by growing flowers, grasses and other plants native to Michigan, we hear from Vern Stephens, an expert in the field. Are you trying to decide what to plant in your yard this Spring?

New In 2024, if you reside near water, depend on well water, own woodland, or are expanding your property’s habitat, you can obtain tree seedlings and even organize a tree planting event through KCD. Preference is given to landowners enrolled in our new Open Yards programs. Learn more at this workshop.

Presenter: Vern Stephens operates Designs By Nature, LLC, a native plant nursery and native landscape consulting company. Vern retired from the Michigan DNR Wildlife Division as a Senior Wildlife Assistant where his work specialized in grasslands and invasive species management. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and served for 21 years in the U.S. Air Force as a fighter pilot travelling around the world and the United States. Now Vern, his wife Susan and their son Zachary live on a 40-acre farm in Laingsburg, Michigan.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Wednesday, April 3rd 6 – 8 pm. Learn more about choosing your plants from our grower Vern Stephens. Hosted at: Location: Bunker Interpretive Center: 1750 E Beltline Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. The Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens provides habitat for 156 species of native plants. SOLD OUT AT 62 Seats on March 25th. We are thinking of hosting another one, if interested email KCD@macd.org.

Order plants: https://www.kentconservation.org/plant-sales/

DISTRIC PRE- ORDER PICKUP: Tree and shrub pre-order pickup is Saturday, April 20th. Many species and bundle options. Tree seedlings through the online store below) closes April 1. The wildflower and potted plant sale will be Saturday, May 25th 10-3pm (pre-order by April 20th).

BROWSE ‘N BUY – Left over species will be displaced in an open house browse and buy of tree and shrub seedlings on Saturday, April 20th 10-3pm. We usually have extra bare root bundled trees and shrubs on display at the corner of Leonard and Beltline: (just north of Meijer Gardens). There are plenty of parking lots as it is a very large office complex. Thank you for your support of this important conservation fundraiser.

Where: 3200 Eagle Park Drive NE, Grand Rapids. KCD parking lot, corner of Leonard & Beltline.

QUESTIONS: KCD@MACD.org or office (616) 222-5801.