Learn about the benefits of using Missouri native plants in our landscapes with Lilly Germeroth, a conservation program associate with the Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF) and its Grow Native! Program.
This free program on native plants will be held at the Phelps County Courthouse in the Multi-purpose Room from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on May 1. Germeroth works to support the MPF through education and outreach, site stewardship, administration of grant projects and organizing scientific research on MPF's 35 properties which comprise over 4,000 acres across the state.
Germeroth grew up in the woods of the Ozarks, drawn to the endless engagement and constant change of the natural world. At Missouri S&T in Rolla, she studied the insect communities in the fallen leaves of woodlands, and later was introduced to the tallgrass prairie ecosystem in western Missouri.
She learned her passion was for ecology - the study of ecosystems, with their many interacting parts. She pursued further studies in ecology at Pennsylvania State University, where she explored the backyard gardens of native plant enthusiasts, and documented the diverse community of insects they support.
She is honored and excited to speak with those curious about native plants and how they can be involved in much-needed conservation efforts, wherever they are!
This free program is sponsored by the Missouri Native Plant Society Paradoxa Chapter, the Meramec Hills Chapter of the Missouri Master Naturalists and Citizen Climate Education Rolla. For those interested in learning more ahead of the plant sale, landscape design plans using natives and information on beneficial alternatives to harmful ornamental plants can be found at http://grownative.org/.
