Native Plant Ambassador Program

Go from native plant novice to expert with this multi-part program. You’ll learn all about Pennsylvania’s native plants, their ecosystem importance, and a variety of ways to bring others on board. This program includes our Knowing Native Plant series, Guided Walks, as well as our basic and advanced botany, interpretation, and BHWP history and geology courses.

Introduction to Bowman’s Hill (BHWP 101) Jan 15, 2022

• • History of BHWP and Preserve Introduction
  • Who we are and why BHWP is so special
  • Relevant habitats and underlying Geology

Basic Botany (BOT 101) January 29, 2022

• • What is a plant, how do they function, and plant life cycles
  • What is a native/non-native species and why does it matter
  • Cultivars, Regional Variants, and Provenance Importance
  • Identification basics (Dichotomous Key and Apps)

Interpretative Skills (INTS 101) March 5, 2022

• • Speaking to and reading an audience
  • Inquiry-based questions-sense of wonder
  • How to not only see but observe, to not only hear but listen.
  • Researching and telling the story behind the plants
  • Developing a thematic walk
  • What to interpret when blooms are absent.

Learn What’s Native (BOT 201) April 2, 2022

• • This class will explore the native plants of PA. We will discuss what is native and why they are essential to our local ecosystem. Each season brings with it a whole host of highlightable species. We’ll discuss the seasonal champions and PA’s Native Plants Seasonal Highlights.

Knowing Native Plants Full Series (KNP 101 – 114)

• Explore our native plants in their full seasonal glory. Each class will focus on groups of plants you are likely to see during that time of the year. During the winter months, this focus shifts to the non-blooming aspects of these plants. Plant identification and well as nuts, fruits, cones, and seed production are introduced at this time. These classes are held virtually as well as in person. A field course will conclude the final hour for those attending in person.

Preserve Guided Walks

• These interpretive experiences with our BHWP Certified Interpretive Naturalist help highlight the rich natural history of our native plants. Hone your field identification, practice your powers of observation, and expand your sense of wonder as we uncover the secrets of our wildflowers.
  

Wonder Walks

• Practice your powers of observation and expand your sense of wonder as we meander the trails. These field excursions are led by BIN and will highlight what to highlight while leading a guided walk.

Additional Information:

Program Cost $475

Online registration for this program closes 12 hours before the start of the class. If you need help with registration, please email education@bhwp.org. If you need assistance with your membership code, please contact development@bhwp.org.

You will receive an email with a Zoom meeting invitation before the program begins and after registration closes.