May 10, 2024

NEBRASKA STATEWIDE ARBORETUM TO HOST FREE WILDFLOWER WEEK EVENTS IN WESTERN NEBRASKA

Posted May 10, 2024 2:25 PM

Nebraska Statewide Arboretum

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum (NSA) will host the following events in western Nebraska in celebration of Nebraska Wildflower Week (June 1-9), a statewide initiative that focuses on shining the spotlight on Nebraska’s unique and diverse native wildflower species. All events are free and open to the public.

Thursday, June 6Plant Talk and Guided Wildflower Hike at Cedar Point Biological Station10 a.m. - 12 noon170 Cedar Point Dr., OgallalaThe Plant Talk will be held in Lubber Lab at Cedar Point Biological Station beginning at 10 a.m. with NSA Horticulture Program Coordinator Bob Henrickson, who will talk about native wildflower species, particularly those prevalent in western Nebraska.

A guided wildflower hike (approximately 45 minutes) with Henrickson and Cedar Point Biological Station staff will follow the Plant Talk. Snacks and water will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk over uneven terrain. No registration required.

Tri Trails Park Affiliate Site Celebration1:30-2:30 p.m.Road West 80 and Lawrence Road, OgallalaAll are welcome to attend a tree planting and celebration of Tri Trails Park becoming an NSA Landscape Steward Affiliate Site. Refreshments will be served. No registration required.

NSA Members & Friends Gathering at Papa Moon Vineyards & Winery6:30-9 p.m.230975 County Road J, ScottsbluffAll are welcome to join NSA staff members for trivia, cider and wine, snacks and great conversation. NSA members (or those who become members at the event) will receive a complimentary glass of wine or cider. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Visit plantnebraska.org/wildflower-week to register.

Friday, June 7Volunteer Planting at Riverside Discovery Center10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.1600 S. Beltline Hwy. W, ScottsbluffMeet outside the zoo entrance and then join NSA staff to help beautify the zoo grounds with native plants. After the planting, volunteers are free to explore the zoo on their own. Email Chrissy Land at [email protected] to register for the volunteer planting.

Plant Talk & Guided Sunset Wildflower Hike at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area6:30-8:30 p.m.210615 NE-71, GeringMeet at the Nature Center for a Plant Talk with Steve Rolfsmeier, director of the High Plains Herbarium at Chadron State College. A guided sunset wildflower hike will follow (approximately 45 minutes) with Rolfsmeier and NSA Horticulture Program Coordinator Bob Henrickson. Snacks and water will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk over uneven terrain. A park permit is required for entry into Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area. No registration required.

Saturday, June 8NSA Plant Sale at Community Ever Green House8:30 – 11 a.m.1210 Overland Trails Rd., GeringNSA will have a wide variety of native and well-adapted flowers, herbs and plants for sun and shade for sale. All proceeds support NSA’s programs, which create sustainable landscapes, gardens and green spaces across Nebraska.