In person workshop will focus on enhancing biodiversity to create healthy habitats in the soil and landscape where you live.

Participants will:

• Learn about design techniques to foster healthy habitats that improve water quality and soil health.
• Be impressed by the many native grasses, wildflowers and shrubs found in Kent County.
• Review the steps a landowner will take to prepare for and install native plants.
• Using case studies, be shown examples of beautiful landscapes that impress the neighbors and beckon butterflies, birds and bees to visit.

Presenter: Vern Stephens, Owner and grower Designs by Nature

About: Vern obtained his bachelor’s degree in Zoology 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 where they operate Designs By Nature, LLC, a native plant nursery and native landscape consulting company.

Where: 3200 Eagle Park Drive NE 100 C Grand Rapids (corner of Leonard and Beltline). Office has moved two doors down from previous location.