Seminar: “Planting for Pollinator Nutrition,” August 2025
When we think about pollinators, we often focus on their role in our food supply, but we don’t always consider what they need to stay healthy themselves. Pollinators contribute to the diversity and quality of our diets, but they also need nutritious food sources. Plants vary in the quantity and quality of floral resources they provide. Laura Russo will discuss some aspects of pollinator nutrition, and then talk about which plants might be best to plant for pollinators in eastern Tennessee.
About our Speaker:
Laura Russo is an assistant professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Tennessee. Her lab studies mutualistic interactions between plants and pollinators, with a special focus on native and wild bees.
Seminar: “Landscaping for Fire Resiliency, Native Plants & Wildfire Preparedness,” May 2025
How can you help keep Tennessee’s forests, and your own backyard, healthy and resilient? We’ll learn how to create defensible space, using fire-resilient native plants. Whether you have a small yard or acres of land, you’ll leave with clear, actionable tips.
This talk will explore The Nature Conservancy’s work in Tennessee, including their role in shaping the state’s 2020-2030 Forest Action Plan. We’ll focus on practical steps homeowners can take to support native species, maintain a thriving landscape, and reduce wildfire risks. Using insights from the Post-Wildfire Restoration Manual, we’ll discuss the importance of creating defensible space and landscaping with native fire-resilient plants to protect your home and surrounding habitat. Whether you have a small yard or acres of land, this session will provide useful guidance for managing your property with nature in mind.
About the speaker
Allana Funderburk serves as the Forest Action Plan Coordinator with The Nature Conservancy, working in collaboration with the Tennessee Division of Forestry. In this role she leads the 5-Year Review of Tennessee’s 2020 Forest Action Plan and is developing a Post-Wildfire Restoration Manual for landowners.
Seminar: “Bringing Back the Prairie,” April 2025
Seminar: “The Dirt on Bugs,” February 26, 2025
Seminar: Ask an Expert Meeting, January 29, 2025
Seminar: “Attracting Birds to your Yard with Native Plants,” September 2024
Native plants provide essential food, shelter, and nesting materials that attract a variety of bird species. Join us to learn how incorporating native plants into your yard not only enhances its beauty but also supports local bird populations. This seminar will cover plant selection, habitat creation, and practical tips to turn your garden into a bird-friendly haven.
Come learn from seasoned birder Jimmy Tucker how to maximize your yard for visits from some stunning feathered friends – the natural way! Learn to identify them, and when to expect unusual visitors, as well as tips for photographing birds!