Events

Join us for our 2025 Wild Ones Western PA Area Winter Social!

Who: MEMBERS ONLY (+ their families)

What: Potluck-style salad bar + beverages/desserts

When: Saturday, March 1st 2025, 11am - 1pm

Where: Point Breeze, Pittsburgh, PA 15208 (full address sent to members via email)

Why: Socialize with other members, share gardening updates, make new connections, etc.

Registration required: https://westernpa.wildones.org/2025-winter-social-registration/

Public gardens hold tremendous power to influence landscaping norms and inspire change. By showcasing the beauty, functionality, and ecological value of native plants, these spaces help foster biodiversity, advocate for sustainable practices, and engage communities in environmental stewardship. 

This webinar will explore how public and demonstration gardens serve as powerful tools for native plant advocacy. Attendees will learn how gardens move beyond aesthetics to spark action—turning appreciation into engagement and inspiring participants to replicate these practices in their own communities.

We will hear insights from Nicole Machuca, Environmental Social Scientist at the Field Museum, on how public gardens influence behaviors, foster stewardship, and connect people to conservation efforts through research and community engagement. The Wild Ones Capital Region NY and the Wild Ones San Diego (CA) Chapters will share their experiences building native plant demonstration gardens and how these spaces drive community engagement, education, and advocacy. And We'll finish with a conversation exploring how public gardens create a lasting impact beyond planting day moderated by Kelly Kapuzzi, Demonstration Garden Char with the Wild Ones Hocking Hills (OH) Chapter.

Join the Western Pennsylvania Wild Ones for our 3rd Annual Symposium that explores the vital connection between communities and native ecosystems. This engaging event will feature thought-provoking panel discussions with experts and advocates, delicious food, refreshing drinks (including alcoholic options), and ample opportunities for socializing and networking. Together, we’ll reimagine our role in fostering harmony between human activity and natural habitats while celebrating the power of community. Whether you’re a conservationist, gardener, or simply a nature enthusiast, this gathering promises to leave you inspired and “naturally connected.”

Let’s grow together—because building stronger communities starts with restoring the land we share.

PANELISTS:

Adam Haritan (Learn Your Land)
Nick Liadis (Bird Lab)
Abigail Salisbury (State Representative)
Heather Hulton VanTassel, Ph.D. (Three Rivers Waterkeeper and Carnegie MNH)
Chris Murakami (Chatham University)

LEARN MORE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Curious about starting a vegetable garden or incorporating edible native plants into your landscape? Join us for an informative session with Alexis Williams of Earth Offerings Garden Consulting and Installation. 

Alexis will answer your questions about designing and planting gardens that are not only beautiful but also bountiful and environmentally friendly.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this is a great opportunity to learn how to grow food while supporting native ecosystems. Don’t miss this chance to connect, ask questions, and get inspired!

Already have a veggie garden? This gathering is as much a social event as educational. This is a great opportunity to meet with other Wild Ones members and like minded folks.

10% Discount to Active Wild Ones Members! Join Today

Plants – More than 45 species and 2000 individual plants! (Species List will be released in the spring!)

Food Truck – TBD

Bake Sale Fundraiser – homemade bread, cookies, brownies, and much more! (DF/GF Options)

Themed Raffle Basket Fundraiser

Vendors - Local artists, non-profits, authors, farms, and more! 

Are you interested in being a vendor at this event? Fill out our vendor application! bit.ly/WONativeEvent2025
 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon! 

Details coming soon!