In October I attended “Connecting with Nature,” a free event held by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) and sponsored by the UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners of Stanislaus County. at
We viewed an inspirational video by Doug Tallamy, a professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. Professor Tallamy discussed the importance of native plants, which he calls the foundation of the food web that supports native insects, which are the primary food source for local birds and other wildlife.
Attendees had a chance to visit booths staffed by local organizations that provided information on sustainable ways to care for our homes, gardens and landscapes. They included The California Native Plant Society, Yokuts Group Sierra Club, Stanislaus Audubon Society, Department of Environmental Resources Urban Forest Modesto, and both the East and West Stanislaus Resource Conservation Districts.
What was fun about the experience was hearing about local field trips, tours, events, volunteer opportunities where residents can participate in efforts to help nature in Stanislaus County.
In addition, the participants visited the demonstration gardens at the Stanislaus County Agricultural Center that feature pollinator plants. UC Master Gardener volunteers were available to show attendees the diversity of plants that can attract native pollinator insects and birds.
Speaking for myself, I came away inspired by information and ideas on how I can make my garden a part of the solution in helping native pollinators and birds thrive. CNPS plans to hold the event again next fall, so watch The Stanislaus Sprout for future announcements.
Denise Godbout-Avant has been a UCCE Stanislaus Master Gardener since 2020
