Dear Members,

Watch it now...the Climate Change and the Future of Plant Life Symposium is on YouTube! On March 26, 2015, people gathered to hear five noted botanists and ecologists discuss how plants might respond to the predicted changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea-level rise from a warming climate. Speakers examined the state of New England's plants; the historical patterns and current evidence of climate-induced adaptation, migration, and loss; and strategies for conserving and managing plant species and natural communities in the face of multiple threats and climate change. And you can now see and hear it all from the comfort of your favorite chair! Just click on the link and enjoy. Happy viewing!

The staff of New England Wild Flower Society

Monarda punctata Research

Only two of the five species of Monarda native to New England are common in cultivation. Monarda punctata stands out as a dry-loving species, an oddity for the genus, with spotted yellow flowers, another oddity, and distinctive white to pink bracts. We are currently only cultivating this species for research purposes, but it will be available for purchase in 2016.

Jack-o'-lantern Competition

Get creative! Carve a pumpkin and deliver it to the Garden Shop between October 17 and October 22 (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), excluding October 19, and receive two 2015/2016 complimentary Garden Passes for each jack-o'-lantern entered into the competition. A "grand prize" winner will be chosen on October 23 and will receive an extra special goody bag. All jack-o'-lanterns will be on display to visitors until October 31.

Night of Illumination

Have you registered yet? All personal members are invited to attend. This year will be "extra special" in honor of the Society's 50th anniversary with Garden in the Woods. Come see the trails lit by more than 1,000 luminaria! RSVP: 508-877-7630 x3104.

Winter Walking

Enjoy Winter Walking at Garden in the Woods starting November 3. Check in and out at the Administration Building from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, until March 25, 2015. Remember, this benefit is offered ONLY to personal members at the Individual with Garden Access level and higher. Email or call 508-877-7630 x3104 to upgrade your membership and take advantage of this special privilege.

Visit Turkey Hill Brook Farm

Our Life Members and the Trillium Society are invited to a private tour of Turkey Hill Brook Farm on November 13 with author, speaker, garden coach, farmer, and Overseer, Ellen Sousa. Learn about this organically-maintained habitat farm in the Worcester Hills, its new native plant nursery, and Ellen's highly acclaimed book, The Green Garden. RSVP: 508-877-7630 x3802.

Conservation Director's Annual Talk

We are very grateful to our friends at Baystate Financial for hosting this year's presentation at their Boston, MA, office on November 19. Our Conservation Circle and Sustainer members are invited hear Bill Brumback, Director of Conservation, talk about "Climate Change and Assisted Migration: Ultimate Solution or Bad Idea?" What a great topic! RSVP: 508-877-7630 x3802.

The Science Behind Conservation

We know seed banking is vital for the future of New England's native plant species, but how do seeds get into the bank? Conservation Circle donors are invited join Michael Piantedosi, Seed Bank Coordinator, on November 22 to learn about the science of seeds and for a hands-on session cleaning seed for our bank. RSVP: 508-877-7630 x3802.

2015 Winter Retail Hours

Nasami Farm's Garden Shop closes on October 18, but the Garden Shop at Garden in the Woods will be open during Winter Walking hours in November and December. Garden in the Woods closes to the public on October 31.

Thank You!

We hope you had fun bidding in our 2015 Fall Online Auction, and won your favorite items. You helped raise $9,357 to support our work in protecting native plants across New England. THANK YOU. Please keep hold of your yard signs to promote next year's auction...recycle, reduce, reuse!

Don't forget to add membership@newenglandwild.org
to your address book so we'll be sure to land in your inbox!