Come with family and friends to a unique event that combines seed collection and citizen science with a guided nature walk! Together we’ll study and help protect the genetic diversity of the regionally uncommon butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa)—the sole host plant of the critically imperiled Monarch butterfly (that we will see, in abundance). Along the way, we’ll discover the fascinating lives of plants, butterflies, and migratory birds within this 9-acre meadow and 7-acre forest, and see what makes it the most important meadow in Port Washington. We will also honor the legacy of PW Green 501(c)(3) and the late Linn Johnson, who recently passed away. Linn worked with PW Green for 20 years to protect the Preserve and hosted educational walks for local school classes.

The seed collection will be led by biologist Greg Lowenthal, President of the Long Island Native Plant Initiative. Abby Bezrutczyk Marino, Long Island Invasive Species Management Area Program Manager, will be sharing observations and information about invasive plant species management! Prior to seed collection will be a nature walk and monarch butterfly stewardship event led by David Jakim, leader of New York Wild Walks, member of Transition Town Port Washington, and member of the Port Washington Biodiversity Coalition (PWBC).