Upcoming 2020 PROGRAMS and FIELD TRIPS

From September to May we be co-sponsor with the Teton County Library free native plant talks every 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. Ordway Auditorium, Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Ln, Jackson, WY 83001. All are welcome!

The world laughs in flowers.

— Emerson

- Tuesday, April 11, 6-7 p.m. “A Bouquet to Celebrate Wyoming Native Plant Month,” LIVE at Teton County Library (no Zoom). Governor Gordon has declared April Wyoming Native Plant Month. Come celebrate the coming of spring with a bouquet of presentations on native plants. Kimberly McMorrow of the Garden Club of America and local plant enthusiast will discuss the national effort to raise awareness of native plants, the governor’s proclamation, and an interactive Wyoming native plant poster. She will also describe her efforts to plant over 4,500 natives at Teton Pines. Jasmine Cutter, Native Seed Lead, Grand Teton National Park, will further our awareness of local pollinators. What insects are aiding which native plants to produce seeds: what are the strategies of the plants and the pollinators to achieve these vital connections? Morgan Graham, Teton Conservation District, will provide tips for plants and planting, as well as the TCD’s resources, to encourage you to incorporate natives in your garden landscapes. We will provide a handout of references and contacts. This program is live only at the library. Time for us to enjoy each other’s company and meet our native plant leaders in person.
- Wyoming Native Plant Society – Annual Meeting – http://www.wynps.org/ SAVE THE DATE: June 16- 18, 2023, for this year’s event being held in Clark, Wyoming.

Past PROGRAMS and FIELD TRIPS

Saturday, March 4, 10 a.m. – noon, Cache Creek Nature Exploration. Meet at Cache Creek Parking lot ready to go by 10 a.m. Travel by snowshoes or foot, based on conditions. Enjoy the morning with two nature experts exploring the wonders of Cache Creek. We will welcome what greets us on our way—plants, tracks, habitats, snow, birds—and discuss how they are part of the nature of Cache Creek and beyond. “There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to listen to the story.” Quote by Linda Hogan. Leaders: Cathy Shill, biologist and founder of The Hole Hiking Experience shares trails in Jackson Hole. Since 1989, she has led groups to discover and explore the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Susan Marsh, writer and naturalist is the author of Cache Creek – a Trailside Guide to Jackson Holes’ Backyard Wilderness. Bring your snowshoes and wear sturdy boots so the decision can be made on site that day as to whether it is best to snowshoe or walk. Max group size 14 – pre-registration required: Contact Cathy’s office: info@holehike.com/ 307.690.4453 to register. We so appreciate Cathy’s generosity in Hole Hiking offering this trip to us.
Link to our January 10, 2023 , Teton Plants Program: “Plants and Animals in Winter” – Frances Clark. https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/W691s6LHZmygIWlkoVnhlaakV6eJhysO_URmoDe44ENatOj4XW6WCDdqoSGdJ2DV.Mmi4hgkvmCYkDmCy
Thursday, Nov 10, 2022 (due to the election being on Tues. Nov. 8) 6-7:30 p.m. zoom only (link later), “Thanksgiving Botany” with Frances Clark. Frances Clark of Teton Plants will provide food for talk around your Thanksgiving table. What will you feast upon for this holiday? What parts of the plant are you eating: root, bark, fruit, seeds? And where did your favorite foods come from? Civilizations from around the world have relished familiar vegetables and fruits for 1000s of years.
Seed Collection with Jasmine Cutter, GTNP – jasmine_cutter@partner.nps.gov
THIS Wednesday, October 12th, 9 am – 2:30 pm, or as long as your schedule allows – Come volunteer! Mountain Big sagebrush/Great Basin sagebrush is ready to be harvested! It requires no bending over and is abundant, making it a delight to collect. We will park at Snake River Overlook. I think we can fit 2 cars per spot (they are RV-sized spots). If you’re coming from the north, feel free to meet us there, we should be there by 9:45 at the latest.
Friday, July 29, 8:30am-noon. Wally World of Munger Mountain Wildflower Walk, Limit 20 people. Frances Clark will lead this informal flower hike up to the bench at Wally’s World about 1.5 miles with a mostly gradual 500’ elevation gain. We will be starting from the USFS parking lot on Fall Creek Road early due to the heat. We will walk through meadows, aspen groves, and up to the ridge to Wally’s Bench for fabulous views. From the bench, one can keep going for a full loop through more aspen groves and open slopes of a hike of just over 3 miles. Meeting place is the USFS trail head off Fall Creek Rd. about 20 min. south of Wilson. Please let us know at this address tetonplants@gmail.com if you wish to come by noon Thursday July 28, and we will confirm with details and plant list.
Thursday, July 28, 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m., Botanical Intensive for Flower Enthusiast, Teton Pass South, Max 10 people. We will walk the flower-rich trail south of Teton Pass to the communication towers, about ½ mile, looking at the range of wonderful flowers along the way: lupines, penstemons, paintbrushes, sunflowers and asters, and much more. Led by Frances Clark, we will get to know the plants typically in flower at this time of year at slightly higher elevations, 7,500’ and above. Several of them bloomed earlier in the valley and are following the season up slope. Knowing these plants will help you on many hikes in the next couple of weeks. We will focus on plant families, pollination strategies, details with a handlens, and other cool aspects of the common species. Due the narrow trail, we will be keeping the group small. Let us know if you are interested, and if we have a lot of curious people, we will add another session. (also see opportunity below). Contact us: at Tetonplants@gmail.com for detailed instructions. Reservations will be on first-come-first-served basis. Please notify us by noon Wed., July 27 at this address: tetonplants@gmail.com so we have time for confirmation communications.
Wednesday, July 13, 9-12 noon, “Aspen Ramble and Conversation with Paul Rogers,” Bryan Flats, SE of Hoback. Join Paul C. Rogers, Director of the Western Aspen Alliance at Utah State University, for a hike into several aspen stands. An expert on aspens and long-time educator, Paul would like to have a wide-ranging conversation about the ecology and importance of aspens. Where do aspens thrive? What plant and animal species benefit? Why are these habitats so diverse? How do stands change with time and are old aspen stands bad? How do natural and prescribed fires affect them? These are just a few topics we can discuss in the field. Bring your questions and curiosity. Difficulty and what to bring: We will walk up the trail toward Ann’s Pond through several aspen groves of different ages and different plant associates. The wildflowers should be in full bloom. The trail is moderately difficult, but we will be moving slowly. Bring a snack, water, and other gear, also lunch if you wish to keep on hiking up to Ann’s Ridge on your own. Limit is 25 people: Please let us know your interest ASAP at this email address to make sure the morning is rewarding to all attendees. We will send you confirmation and directions by Tuesday morning, July 12 if not before.
Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m., botant hike in Dubois, WY, sponsored by the National Bighorn Sheep Center (NBSC) and Wyoming Native Plant Society. Grab your hiking poles and let’s have an adventure! National Bighorn Sheep Center has partnered with Wyoming Native Plant Society to offer a botany hike specifically for our members (and those of WYNPS)! Join Dubois’ favorite locals, Meredith Taylor and Lynn Stewart, for a wildflower hike in the East Fork area of Fremont County. We hope phenology cooperates for a stunning display of bitterroot, but we may also have opportunities to check out blazing star, Prince’s plume, Indian paintbrush, and others! This fairly easy uphill hike will reach an elevation of about 8,000′. Please bring your lunch, water, sun protection, bug spray, and bear spray. Register in advance by calling the National Bighorn Sheep Center at (307) 455-3429 or emailing us at info@bighorn.org
June 3-5, 2022, Wyoming Native Plant Society Wildflower Weekend/Annual Meeting, Thermopolis and the surrounding area. Click here for more info.
Saturday, June 4, 9:00 am – approx. noon, Wildflower Walk – Upper Flat Creek. Meet at 9:00 am at the entrance to the elk refuge road at the end of E Broadway, and we can caravan and carpool. Susan Marsh–botanist, native plant gardener, author, artist, and naturalist–will lead an easy walk on an informal trail above upper Flat Creek, with options to drop down to the creek side for different wildflowers and shrubs. Great views of Sheep Mountain and the Tetons as well. Wear masks in vehicles if riding with non-household members. Numbers limited. Details at the library meeting on Tuesday.
Tuesday, May 24, 6 p.m., Teton County Library, “Plant Projects Growing Around Teton County.” Join fellow plant enthusiasts (in person!) at the Teton County library to learn about plant projects growing strong around Teton County. This evening, Teton Plants will showcase a range of endeavors sponsored by community organizations and creative individuals. Vertical Harvest will bring us up-to-date on its hydroponic food production and native plant experiments. Grand Teton National Park will show us how they are sustaining native plant habitat and how you can pitch in to help. Teton Conservation District provides support for a variety of community and home projects, and Brian Hagar will show how the integrative practice of permaculture can stabilize and improve your land.
Tuesday, April 26, 2022, 6pm — Zoom presentation — “Firewise Landscaping in the WUI – Lean, Clean, Green and Pretty,” with Chuck Butterfield, Coordinator of the Greys River Forest Collaborative and the Alpine Area Wildfire Protection Coalition; and Bobbi Clauson, Chair of the Teton Area Wildfire Protection Coalition (TAWPC). Two regional experts will help us prepare for fire season 2022 and the years to come. Bobbi will lead the talk by defining what it means to live in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Chuck will then discuss the “do’s and don’ts” on how to design homes and landscaping in the WUI so you can grow attractive native plantings while providing some defensible space during a wildfire incident. He will finish up by describing several regionally available native plants that can provide color to your home’s landscaping. Chuck Butterfield has recently “retired” from a long career in teaching, rangeland management, and consulting. Bobbi Clauson grew up in Jackson and has been a member of the Fire Department since 2006. now holds the title of Wildland Fire Prevention Specialist. https://youtu.be/boGzVqmw_rQ
Tuesday, March 22, 2022, 6 p.m. – ZOOM – “Peeking under the canopy: climate, fire, and Greater Yellowstone plant communities.” Nathan Kiel, PhD Student, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Greater Yellowstone plant communities are shaped by fire, which in turn is driven by climate. What happens, then, if climate and fire are changing? In this talk, we will explore how understory plant communities in subalpine forests are responding to increasingly frequent fire and a warming climate. We will think about shifts in the plant community at multiple levels, including community richness and diversity, composition, cover, and abundance of individual species. We will see which plants increase following two wildfires in quick succession, which plants fare worse, and how these changes interact with warmer, drier postfire conditions. With continual changes to climate and fire expected, current plant community responses may portend the future of Greater Yellowstone landscapes. Nathan Kiel is a PhD student in the Ecosystem and Landscape Ecology Lab in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His two main interests lie in plant community ecology and translational ecology, the former to understand how communities respond to changing disturbances and climate, and the latter to communicate that understanding broadly to effect positive change.
Tues, Feb. 22, 2022, 6 – 7pm – Zoom – “Aspen Biodiversity: Seeing an old friend with new eyes” – Paul Rogers, Director of the Western Aspen Alliance. So you think you know quaking aspen, eh? Join guest speaker Paul Rogers for a biogeographic look at aspen, fire, climate, and biodiversity. Find out why these communities are sought after by humans and wildlife and valued globally as plant diversity islands, often among a sea of conifer-dominated forests. In addition to aspen’s attributes, you’ll learn about current threats to these forests in our region, as well as efforts underway to improve their resilience. At the very least, in the middle of a Teton winter, participants will experience aspen’s array of colors and definitely learn something new about this fascinating species that supports a broad swath of Rocky Mountain fauna and flora. Dr. Paul C. Rogers is Adjunct Professor in the Dept. of Environment & Society, a USU Ecology Center Associate, and the Director of the Western Aspen Alliance. Paul’s ecosystem monitoring research has taken him around the U.S., as well as Canada, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. He has published more than 50 professional and technical papers and appeared in media print, video/TV, and online content more than 100 times.https://youtu.be/ZtOc8sinCoY
Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022, 6pm, “The Nature and ID of Plants in Winter” – Frances Clark, botanist. Our native plants are dormant and mostly covered in snow. However, trees stand tall and shrubs branch above our thick blanket of white. Even some herbaceous perennials hold up remnant fruits. In fact the reduced numbers and limited ID clues of plants help us focus on the details of those that are apparent. This program will help you ID about 20 species visible while snowshoeing and skiing in the woods or across the sage flats. Also, Clark will mention the importance of plants to wildlife survival.
Sagebrush Seed Day! Tuesday, September 14th, 9am at Moose Post office until whenever/3:30pm. Bring water, lunch, snacks, bear spray. If you have a few hours and want to help the restoration efforts in Grand Teton National Park, please turn out this Tuesday. I joined the small group a couple of weeks ago for half-a-day and felt great about my contribution. And fun people to be around. It was gratifying to be part of a much larger effort to restore parts of the wonderful park. So if you can, please join Jasmine Cutter, myself (Frances Clark), and others. We will be collecting low sagebrush (Artemesia arbuscula) at Highlands and Lupine Meadows. We’ll probably start at Highlands and then progress to Lupine Meadows if we cover that area. Per usual, folks are welcome to stay as long as they are able. The areas are flat, so no big hills to climb, but sturdy shoes are recommended. As the name implies, it is a fairly low-growing species, so there will be a lot of bending over or kneeling. Jasmine will have extra bear spray, but if you can bring your own, that would be best! Feel free to share with your friends/lists! A fancy poster is attached! Contact Jasmine Cutter with any questions: jasmine_cutter@nps.gov
We are very pleased to be working with Grand Teton National Park which is sponsoring:

Wednesday, June 23, 10-2:30. Grand Teton Sagebrush Steppe Plant ID Walk – The purpose is to help you identify sagebrush habitat plants and understand the importance of the habitat. The workshop will include several GTNP botany and vegetation staff, along with interns in training. We will gather together near Ditch Creek in the park. We will start with basic botany and ID, and then break into small groups to find as many plants as we can. We will also hear about GTNP’s sagebrush habitat restoration work and volunteer opportunities coming up later in the summer and fall. We will have 3-4 leaders and, therefore, can accommodate up to 40 folks such as yourselves. From the Park flier for the event: Join us to learn the basics of plant identification with a focus on steppe species. Great for beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts! We will also discuss ongoing restoration projects and upcoming volunteer opportunities at Grand Teton NationalPark. Attendance is capped at 40, carpooling is strongly encouraged due to parking limitations. Pre-registration required by mid-day Tues, June 22. Click on this link to register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfzzcfoXUpdDERqMQhagwrW3xgnknbkgFgzXLX2rYMsB08erQ/viewform
June 20 – Sunday – Dubois Botany Hike with Meredith Taylor and Lynn Stewart; Partners: WYNPS and National Bighorn Sheep Center http://www.wynps.org/activities/2021-events/
June 25-27 – Friday-Sunday – Wyoming Native Plant Society Annual Meeting, Laramie; Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest – http://www.wynps.org/activities/2021-annual-meeting/
Tuesday, March 23, 2021, 6pm, via Zoom (the link is coming), “A Salute to Sagebrush: Restoring native plant communities in the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.” Presenters include Erik Kramer, Laura Jones, Sienna Wessel, restoration scientists with Grand Teton National Park. Sagebrush steppe supports remarkably diverse plant life, creating blooms that span the growing season. It is also critically important for the abundance of wildlife across the western US. In particular, the sagebrush flats in Jackson Hole—the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem—support extraordinary elk and pronghorn migrations, bison, moose, and birds, including the greater sage grouse. Forty-five hundred (4,500) acres at the core of this habitat was converted to pasture in the 1800s. In 2007, the park began to tackle an ambitious vision: restore this pastureland to native sagebrush steppe communities. We will share restoration tools and techniques of our 14 years of work on this project; challenges and successes; and a sneak peek at preliminary research results evaluating 11 years of monitoring data. Laura Jones is a plant community ecologist and the Branch Chief of Vegetation Ecology and Management at Grand Teton National Park. Erik Kramer is a Lead Biological Science Technician at Grand Teton National Park. Sienna Wessel is a master’s student at the University of Wyoming and is a collaborating researcher with Grand Teton National Park.
Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 6pm (via zoom), “Virtual Tour – Rocky Mountain Herbarium.” The Rocky Mountain Herbarium (RM) is the largest facility of its kind between Saint Louis and the West Coast. and is the largest collection of Wyoming and Rocky Mountains plants in the world. Its collection of 1.3 million specimens reflects the region’s biological diversity and evolutionary history. This virtual tour will introduce you to the place, the people, and some of the plants of this 125-year-old facility, the jewel of Wyoming’s natural history collections. Not only that, but you will learn how you, too, can use the RM online database of nearly 900,000 specimens and >300,000 images to explore Wyoming’s flora. Please join us!
Tuesday, January 26, 2021, 6:00 p.m. via Zoom (link below), “Retracing History Reveals Ecological Shifts in the Greater Yellowstone” with Trevor Bloom.
Timing is everything. In the 1970’s legendary biologist Frank Craighead began frequent observations on the seasonal timing of ecological events in what is now Grand Teton National Park, including when wildflowers sprout leaves, bud, flower and fruit. This study is known as phenology. Frank used these notes to write the popular book, For Everything There is a Season: The Sequence of Natural Events in the Grand Teton-Yellowstone Area. Nearly 50 years later, local Wyoming biologist Trevor Bloom has built on this legacy to compare modern phenological events to his historic data. In this exciting virtual talk, Trevor will present the startling results of the research and share his newest short film on the project: For Everything There Was a Season (Spring). Trevor Bloom is a Community Ecologist for The Nature Conservancy, Wyoming Chapter and a Research Associate for Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative. He grew up in Jackson, Wyoming surrounded by nature in the shadow of the Tetons. For several years he has been incorporating volunteers to help him with his work. Zoom presentation co-sponsored by Teton Plants and Teton County Library.
Tuesday, January 12, 2021, 7 pm via Zoom. Wild Plant Foraging with Thomas J. Elpel. The Valley of Flowers Chapter of Montana Native Plant Society invites us to join them for a great program. Bring your appetite for spring and join Thomas J. Elpel, author of Botany in a Day and Foraging the Mountain West, for an evening of virtual foraging. Learn about the patterns method of plant identification to instantly recognize scores of wild edible plants. Learn to identify and avoid serious poisonous plants while harvesting and celebrating nature’s green abundance. Learn how to feast on wild edibles while maintaining sustainable practices and navigating issues of native vs. nonnative species. Discover new delights you will never find at the store. Connect with nature on a deeper level by meeting, greeting, and eating the plants that share the neighborhood. Become a little more self-sufficient, and a lot more aware!. Thomas J. Elpel had the rare opportunity as a child to spend hundreds of hours with his grandmother, Josie Jewett. Together they explored the hills and meadows near Virginia City, Montana, collecting herbs, looking for arrowheads, and watching wildlife. Grandma Josie mentored Tom in learning about wild plants and self-sufficiency, igniting a passion for nature that has inspired him ever since. He shares his experiences through classes and writing. Elpel is the founder of Green University, LLC (www.GreenUniversity.com) and the author/producer of numerous books, games, and DVDs about nature, botany, wilderness survival, and sustainable living.
Tuesday, November 24, 6-7pm — ZOOM MEETING (details on home page) — “Improving native plant restoration with a pasta machine,” with Maggie Eshleman, Restoration Scientist, The Nature Conservancy, Wyoming. Restoring native plants where they have disappeared isn’t always as easy as just scattering seeds and waiting for them to sprout. In order to coax some iconic Wyoming plants, like sagebrush and sulfur buckwheat to grow on sites where they were removed, The Nature Conservancy is using science, ingenuity and an industrial pasta machine. Maggie Eshleman will talk about some of the “recipes” that are being tested in Wyoming to overcome barriers to native plant growth, like combatting invasive species and summer drought. She’s asking questions like “Can we increase the length of sagebrush seedling roots so they survive through the summer?” and “Is there a way to protect native seeds from herbicide when we treat cheatgrass?” BIO: Maggie Eshleman earned her B.A. in General Biology at Washington and Jefferson College in 2009, and her M.S. in Plant Biology and Conservation at Northwestern University in 2015 where she studied local adaption of native forbs on the Colorado Plateau. Maggie worked on revegetation and restoration projects throughout the western United States before joining The Nature Conservancy in 2018. She is now focused on restoring sagebrush and associated native plants throughout Wyoming using technologies that attempt to lessen the bottleneck between germination and emergence. Much of the work that she is doing is located on reclaimed uranium mines in central Wyoming.
Tuesday March 24, 6-8 p.m., Teton County Library, “Improving native plant restoration with a pasta machine” – Maggie Eshleman, Restoration Scientist, The Nature Conservancy, Lander. Restoring native plants where they have disappeared isn’t always as easy as just scattering seeds and waiting for them to sprout. In order to coax some iconic Wyoming plants, such as big sagebrush, to grow on sites where they were removed, The Nature Conservancy is using science, ingenuity and an industrial pasta machine. Maggie Eshleman will talk about some of the “recipes” that are being tested in Wyoming to combat things like invasive species and severe site disturbance from historic mining. Co-sponsored with Teton County Library.
Tuesday, Feb 25, 6-8 p.m. Teton County Library, “Wyoming’s Largest Plants: The Forests and Trees of Western Wyoming” – Ben Read, arborist. Ben Read is a life-long arborist whose interest in trees is as much avocational as it was professional. He will begin with the distribution of different forest types in our area
and around the state, and then talk about individual species and their remarkable adaptive capacities. Included will be descriptions of ‘accidental encounters’ in nearby settings. Ben past owner of Snake River Tree and Shrub has been involved with county planning matters for over 25 years. Co-sponsored with Teton County Library.
Tuesday, Jan, 28, 6-8 p.m. Teton County Library, “Climb-It Change – The Role of Adventure and Community Outreach in Conservation” – Trevor Bloom, researcher and local botanist. Join Trevor Bloom for an exciting evening of documentary film, science, and community outreach. He will screen his 15-minute film “Climb-It Change” which follows Trevor and his research partners as they climb 76 peaks to uncover the response of alpine plants to temperatures rise. He will then dive deeper into his ongoing research on the dynamics of climate change, snow, wildfire, and ecology in the Rocky Mountains.
Trevor was raised in Jackson, and now works as a Community Ecologist with The Nature Conservancy, Research Associate with the Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative and operates tours for Guides of Jackson Hole. Co-sponsored with Teton County Library.Past PROGRAMS and FIELD TRIPS
Tuesday, November 26, 6-8 p.m, “Long-term changes in vegetation within bighorn sheep habitat in NW Wyoming,’ by Mike Merigliano, Teton County Library. One aspect of bighorn sheep conservation is impacts to their high-elevation habitat, particularly forage. Repeat photography of the last century, combined with climate and streamflow data, provide insights into risks to bighorn sheep via habitat changes. Our speaker, Mike Merigliono has spent the last several years re-photographing views taken decades ago and analyzing the changes in vegetation. As a hydrologist, he also understands the way water works and affects plant communities. This program will compare the photographs of high elevation sites and take on questions of what is changing and what is not and how it may impact our iconic bighorn sheep.
Tuesday, October 22, 6-8 p.m., “Eocene to Alpine: A wildflower tour of the Upper Wind River Valley,” by Lynn Stewart,Teton CountyLibrary. Come see the beauty of the Wind River flora through the eyes of a life-long naturalist. Lynn Stewart has been roaming the Winds all his life as a hunter, outfitter, wildlife biologist, and wildflower enthusiast. He is currently vice-chair of the Wyoming Native Plant Society. He is a native of Dubois, Wyoming.
Tuesday, September 24, 6-8 p.m.,“Teton Shrubs: ID tips and wildlife values” by local botanist Frances Clark, Teton County Library. Over 30 shrubs play an important role in the ecology of Jackson Hole. Elk, deer, and moose browse twigs; birds, bears, and chipmunks depend on fruits and seeds; and many critters use thickets for shelter. We also enjoy their colorful flowers and fruits in our gardens. This one-hour illustrated program will focus on the most common shrubs, provide tips for identification, and discuss wildlife and aesthetic values throughout the seasons.
Monday June 3, 10:00 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. – Miller Butte Wildflower Walk – co-sponsored with National Elk Refuge.Back by popular demand, this is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the wildflowers and nature of Miller Butte, within the National Elk Refuge, which is usually off-limits to the public. We will meet at the Miller House, ¾ mile along the Elk Refuge Road from the east end of Broadway promptly at 9:30 and we will carpool to a special location. We will hike slowly to the top of the butte enjoying the various plants along the way in different habitats: sagebrush/grassland, shrubby swales, and rocky knolls. After a bite to eat at the top (bring your own snack or lunch), we will descend along another route. If we have time we will take an hour to explore the nearby wetlands—with their own specialties. Refuge staff/volunteers will be on hand to explain refuge management matters, as well. Note: walking is over rough, possibly steep terrain. Bring water and snacks, a hiking pole if desired. Free.
Space is limited: one person can register up to 4 people; re-registration required by Saturday June 1:tetonplants@gmail.com We need to have your names to be sure to let you know if there is a cancellation due to weather. Also, we want to send you a plant list. We have a rain date for Thurs., June 13. Those who did not go on the 2017 hike have first dibs.
Tuesday, May 28, 6-8 p.m, “Sage Grouse, Icon of the West,” by Nappadol Paothong, Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson, Co-sponsored with the Meg and Bert Raynes Wildlife Fund and Teton County Library. We are very pleased to host Nappodol Paothong, an award-wining nature/conservationist photographer of Greater Sage Grouse. Napppadol Paothong will highlight extraordinary story of life, natural history, and the unique spring courtship behaviors of greater sage-grouse that he has been documented for last 17 years for his national award-winnings book Sage Grouse, Icon of the West. He hopes to increase the understanding of its value and plight, and to help the discussion about conservations in ways that will benefit all – humans and wildlife that live in and near the sage-grouse habitat. Big sagebrush (Artemesia tridentata) and its associated community are vital to the survival of this unique bird. Once again, without the plants, we would not have our rich wildlife heritage here in Jackson Hole.
Tuesday, April 23, 6-8 p.m. – Teton Count Library, “A Showcase of Plant Projects in Jackson Hole.” Many of us are itching to dig into the soil and start growing green. Some are imagining fresh food, others flowers, still others cider and jellies. Teton Plants will showcase a variety of local horticultural endeavors: greenhouse gardening: Vertical Harvest and Summit High School; the ongoing JH Community Gardens and new projects: May Park Wellness Garden and Teton County Weed and Pest’s native landscapes initiative. Yet another enterprise involves bears, crabapples and cider. Come learn what is coming up this growing season in our community and ask your questions among avid gardening friends. Free and open to the public. Co-sponsored by Teton Plants and Teton County Library.
Tuesday, March 26, 6-8 pm – “Native Plant Uses with a Touch of Spirit: Essential Oils, Hydrosols, and Some Sovereign foods” Ben Clark, American Wilderness Botanicals – Teton County Library. Have you ever thought about the many ways in which we connect with plants every day? We use plants for food and seasoning and also for, medicines, clothing and houses. Our Native American friends not only use plants in these ways, they also use them in sacred ceremonies that have deep meaning for them. If you think hard enough about this you’ll find plants in our sacred literature and our ancient past. Ben Clark believes there is healing in wilderness. Wilderness is filled with plants that we have barely begun to understand. He has been exploring both the science and spirit of plants along side many expert practitioners. This presentation will focus on distilling oils and hydrosols and will introduce some “sovereign” foods as well. Samples of his craft will be passed around.
CANCELLED DUE TO A RIDICULOUS AMOUNT OF SNOW: “Long-term changes in vegetation within bighorn sheep habitat in NW Wyoming” – Mike Merigliano – Tuesday, February 26, 6-8 p.m. Teton County Library. One aspect of bighorn sheep conservation is impacts to their high-elevation habitat, particularly forage. Repeat photography of the last century, combined with climate and streamflow data, provide insights into risks to bighorn sheep via habitat changes. Our speaker, Mike Merigliono has spent the last several years rephotographing views taken decades ago and analyzing the changes in vegetation. As a hydrologist, he also understands the way water works and affects plant communities. This program will compare the photographs of high elevation sites and take on questions of what is changing and what is not and how it may impact our iconic bighorn sheep. Free and open to everyone.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019, 6-8 p.m. – “Native Plant Social Gathering and Collage” – Come join us for our annual Teton Plants Social. Share your favorite photos (1-2 mb each please) or other items (art, books, and crafts) celebrating plants and their habitats. Be prepared to share informally your enthusiasm, questions, and talent to create a community collage of wild plant impressions. Limit 5 minutes per person. Also, bring an edible to share. And if you have a plant book that you would like to pass on to another plant enthusiast, please bring it to donate. Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium B, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. FREE, all welcome. For more information on how to participate, contact: Tetonplants@gmail.com
Tuesday, Nov. 27, 6:00 p.m. – “Native Plant and Wildlife Combinations in Winter” – Teton County Library. Frances Clark, local botanist, will delve into the responses of both plants and animals to our Jackson Hole winters. While many plants and creatures disappear from the scene one way or the other, remaining animals survive by eating and using plants. For instance: pocket gophers consume storage roots buried under feet of snow; mammals from moose to hares eat pirmarily woody stems, digesting cellulose in special guts; chickadees weighing just a few ounces stay warm though long, cold nights fueled by tiny seeds. The plants themselves survive in subzero weather with little sun and frozen water. How? These stories and more will be illustrated in this one-hour presentation. Free and open to the public. Co-sponsored by Teton Plants and Teton County Library.
Tuesday, Oct. 23, 6:00-8:00 p.m. — “Other Ways of Knowing” – Raylene McCalman, anthropologist and ethnobotanist — Teton County Library. Plant communities and landscapes appear entirely different when observed through the lenses of culture and traditional ecological knowledge. Raylene McCalman, researcher and writer, will use these frameworks to explore the native plant communities of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Raylene currently serves as Program Director of the Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative. Her fieldwork, throughout the Rocky Mountain West and beyond, has captured the stories and traditions of people and places along the way. Free. Co-sponsored by the Teton County Library. Please come and welcome Raylene and learn more about her work.
Tuesday, September 25, 6 – 8 p.m. — “Hiding in Plain Sight” – Teton County Library. Join local plant enthusiast Morgan Graham for a photographic homage to some of his favorite vegetation from seasons past. The native plant talk will focus on where and when to find these occasionally inconspicuous jewels of Teton County, as well as interesting anecdotes regarding their significance to wildlife and humans. Morgan is currently the GIS & Wildlife Specialist for Teton Conservation District. His knowledge and appreciation for native plant communities has developed over the past 15 years while monitoring conservation easements, assessing ungulate habitat, and exploring off trail in the Rocky Mountain West.
Friday, June 22, 10:00 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. – Wally’s World Wildflower Hike. Join Frances Clark on a 3-mile round-trip hike up to Wally’s World, located just north and east of Red Top Meadows. The moderate hike will take us along a willow shrub swamp, through extensive aspen groves with flowering yellow-bracted lousewort, fern-leaf lovage, and heart-leaved arnica, and up a winding trail to see the extravaganza of mule’s ears covering the open slopes. Antelope bitterbrush, sticky geranium, and snowberry are also blooming. Bring a light lunch and water, and binoculars if you are interested in birds. Meet: USFS trailhead on Fall Creek Road: From Rte. 22 in Wilson, go south on Fall Creek Road for 10.5 miles. Parking is on the right. And if you can’t make it on Friday, go now with a friend. Its wonderful.
Tuesday, May 22, 6:00 p.m. “Teton Flowers: Summer Meadows” – Teton County Library. In this illustrated talk, Frances Clark, local botanist, will take you higher and higher to see what flowers will be blooming this summer. She will cover different growing conditions, survival strategies, pollinators, and defenses of our beautiful favorites such as paintbrush, sunflowers, lupines, and louseworts. Get energized for this wildflower season! All welcome. Free
Wednesday, May 23, 10:00 a.m.-1 p.m. – Josie’s Ridge Wildflower Walk – Time to get out and see the flowers! Amy Taylor and Frances Clark will lead this informal walk up the open switchback trail looking for spring blooms: Kitten-tails (photo), Sugar Bowls, Shooting Stars, Prairie Smoke, and Balsamroot, to name just a few. Note: the trail can be a bit steep. Hiking boots recommended and a walking stick if you like. Bring water. Meet at: the gateway to Russ Garaman Pathway, Elk Run, behind the U.S. Post Office (SE corner) in Jackson. Please respect no parking zones.
Tuesday, April 24, 6 – 8 p.m. Teton County Library – “Wildflower Watch and Neighbors to Nature” – Trevor Bloom, local biologist and botanist, will explain Wildflower Watch – a new program where biologists and citizen scientists retrace Craighead’s footsteps to record the first leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits of native and invasive plant species. Are these times the same now as they were in the 1970s when observed by Frank Craighead? Wildflower Watch is partnering with JH Wildlife Foundation – Nature Mapping, Friends of Pathways, and Bridger-Teton National Forest to expand and focus collective citizen science efforts at the Cache Creek trailhead. Learn more about the Wildflower Watch and associated Cache Creek Neighbors to Nature Program and how you can participate. Free. Open to the public. Co-sponsored by Teton Plants and Teton County Library.
Tuesday, March 27, 2018, 6 pm, Teton County Library, “Wyoming’s Wetlands: Using Plants to Assess Wetland Health and Inform Conservation.” Research and conservation efforts in Wyoming work hand in hand to understand the state of our wetlands, protect, and restore them. Plants play a key role in this process. Learn about adaptations of wetland plants and how they are used as indicators of wetland health. Noelle Smith is a wetland specialist for Ducks Unlimited, working as a partner biologist for Wyoming Game and Fish Department in their Casper office. Co-Sponsored by Teton County Library. Free. All welcome.
Tuesday, February 27, 6-8 pm, 2018, “A Look at Life Like They Never Have.” Scholar, teacher, and Jackson Hole denizen Dr. Reade Dornan has been fascinated for years by Alexander von Humboldt’s world-wide explorations and renowned accomplishments, but mostly by his novel way of thinking about nature. In observing a Maritia palm Humboldt “observed with astonishment how many things are connected with the existence of a single plant.” The connectivity of nature is the theme that runs through all of his work and travels. An award-winning university professor, Reade will provide a lively and intriguing perspective on von Humboldt’s (1767–1835) profound observations starting with plants. Co-sponsored by Teton Plants and Teton County Library. Free and open to the public.
Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2018, 6:00-8:00 pm, “Teton Plants Social and Native Plant Collage.” – Come join us for our annual Teton Plants Social. Share your favorite photos or other items (art, books, and crafts) celebrating plants and their habitats. Be prepared to share informally your enthusiasm, questions, and talent to create a community collage of wild plant impressions. Limit 5 minutes per person. Also, bring an edible to share. And if you have a plant book that you would like to pass on to another plant enthusiast, please bring it to donate. Meet at: Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium B, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. FREE, all welcome.
Tues., Nov. 28, 2017, 6-8pm, Teton County Library, “Effective Habitat Restoration Approaches of San Diego That Can Be Applied Here,”
Arne Johanson – Volunteer leader for habitat restoration projects in San Diego County, CA. Over the last 11 years, Arne Johanson has coordinated restoration of over 1,100 acres of degraded cattle ranches back to native plants in San Diego County, California. On each project he used teams of only 6 volunteers and developed techniques at a cost of $15. per finished acre. Can these methods be applied here in Teton County? Arne thinks so. Come hear what he has learned about giving a hand to nature.
MONDAY (yes, the exception to the rule of Tuesdays), November 6, 6-8pm – “Reconstructing Early Paleogene forests and climate using the fossil leaves of Wyoming” presented by Esther Pinheiro, University of Wyoming. The warmest point in the past 65 million years (since the demise of the dinosaurs) was 55 million years ago. The earth was 90-150 F warmer than today; the poles were ice free; sea level was significantly higher; animal and plant life changed dramatically. Why does this matter? Because there is general scientific agreement that on current trends the earth could well re-visit these conditions due to human caused global warming. By studying the fossil record of this time here in Wyoming we are able to learn how this ancient event may have occurred, and to study its affect on the earth. Fossil leaves offer particularly powerful insights into the world of that time. Knowledge of the organization and host specificities of plant–herbivore food webs is important for understanding historical biodiversity patterns and the processes of their maintenance. The study of Paleogene ecological interactions allows us to better predict how modern ecosystems will respond to human caused global warming. Co-sponsored by Geologists of Jackson Hole: http://geologistsofjacksonhole.org/
Tues., Oct. 24, 2017, 6-8pm, “Riparian vegetation in the upper Snake River basin over time and space,” Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Ln., Jackson. Mike Merigliano, local plant ecologist, will discuss the questions: Why does vegetation along streams look the way it does? Was it always this way? Will it stay that way? As the saying goes, “It depends”, and we’ll explore some of these dependencies. Co-sponsored by Teton Plants and Teton County Library. Free and open to the public.

Tues., Sept. 26, 2017, 6-8 p.m. – “For Everything There Was A Season: How Climate Change Affects the Plants and Wildlife of Jackson Hole” – Teton County Library. Building on the work of Dr. Frank Craighead beginning in the 1970’s, we are monitoring the seasonal timing of plants and wildlife to see how climate has and will shift the sequence of natural events in the Tetons. This talk will describe what phenlogy is (study of cyclical and seasonal natural changes), what indicators of phenology are used to track plants, and how to ID some of the key plants. He will explain how this citizen science project on and around Blacktail Butte is organized and how it fits into the larger scheme of other phenology and citizen science projects. And you will learn how you can become involved! Teton County library is located at 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson, WY. We meet in the Ordway Auditorium. This program is co-sponsored by the Teton County Library.
Saturday, September 2, 2017, 9am -1 pm, Blacktail Butte Wildflower Watch: Climate Change and Citizen Science in the Tetons. Sponsored by Teton Plants, Sierra Club, Teton Botanical Garden. Join Trevor Bloom, a young botanist raised in Jackson, on an informative and enjoyable hike on the west slope of Blacktail Butte for a glimpse into the diverse fall foliage of Grand Teton National Park. Trevor has been working with several partners to investigate the impacts of climate change on the phenology (ecological timing) of plants, as well as cascading effects on the vital wildlife of the Tetons. The work is inspired by and utilizes the baseline data of Dr. Frank Craighead, which he collected in the 1970’s. Trevor’s team is out at Blacktail weekly on a multi-year study, collecting data on a wide community of plants. They need citizen scientists, such as yourself, to help. This will be an introduction to their work. Frances Clark of Teton Plants, Steve Deutsch of the Teton Botanical Garden, and members of the Sierra Club will join us. The focus will be on the identification of fruits and seeds of common species, and understanding the patterns and process that drive the beautiful color changes of the deciduous foliage. The hike will be a slow pace, less than 5 miles of terrain varying from flat to moderately steep, with frequent stops to identify plants and record citizen science data. Meet at Blacktail Butte climbing wall parking lot, just north of Moose Junction on Highway 191. Bring clothes and water appropriate for a moderate hike, pen or pencil, notebook, and optional: clipboard, handlens, and plant identification books or keys. Trevor Bloom is a professional biologist specializing on the impacts of climate and wildfire on the wildflowers of the Rocky Mountains. Please contact Trevor Bloom trevor@nrccooperative.org or Frances Clark at tetonplants@gmail.org with any further questions.
Wednesday, July 26, 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Grand Targhee – Arctic-Alpine Flora atop Fred’s Mountain. Leaders: Earle Layser, botanist, and Brigid Sinram, Targhee Naturalist. Ride the Dream Catcher to explore the different habitats around the 9770’ summit of Fred’s Mountain and enjoy the magnificent scenery. Plant communities/habitats present include: subalpine fir forest and mountain meadow, whitebark pine-subalpine fir, subalpine fir krummholz– all on fractured limestone providing different niches from sun baked to dripping. At 10:00 we will meet at the Grand Targhee Resort (Alta, ID) patio at the base of the Dream Catcher lift for a briefing and tickets. We will ride the chair lift up, observing the changes in plants along the way, and then at the summit, slowly walk at a botanist’s pace to the observation platform where, weather permitting, we will lunch. Our leader will make some remarks about the scenery and Hayden expedition before we take a few other traverses to the nature center and toward or around Mary’s Nipple Mountain looking at alpine specialties. We will take the lift down around 3:30 p.m. and those who wish can gather at 3:45-4 pm for refreshments at the Branding Iron. Assess your capacity for getting on and off the chair lift and walking at high elevation in choosing this excursion. Bring: lunch, sunscreen, water, windbreaker, hiking boots, sunglasses, and hiking pole(s). Optional: bring your Arctic-Alpine Flora guide, camera. We will provide a short list of plants. We have reserved 20 tickets for a group rate of $10/person. First come first reserved. Please let us know if you wish to come at tetonplants@gmail.com and eplayser@silverstar.com. Let us know if you wish to meet at 8:30 to carpool from Stilson Parking lot in Wilson for the one hour plus drive. (42 miles from Jackson) Note: as the organizers are traveling this week, we may not respond right away. This should be a great expedition. Hope you can join this great duo of leaders.

Wednesday, June 7, 9:30 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. – Miller Butte Wildflower Walk – co-sponsored with National Elk Refuge. Back by popular demand, this is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the wildflowers and nature of Miller Butte, within the National Elk Refuge, which is usually off-limits to the public. We will meet at the Miller House promptly at 9:30 and carpool to a special location. We will hike slowly to the top of the butte enjoying the various plants along the way in different habitats: sagebrush/grassland, shrubby swales, and rocky knolls. After a bite to eat at the top (bring your own snack or lunch), we will descend along another route. At about 12:30 we will take an hour to explore the nearby wetlands—with their own specialties. Refuge staff/volunteers will be on hand to explain refuge management matters as well. Space is limited: pre-registration required by Monday, June 5 at tetonplants@gmail.com. Those who did not go on the 2016 hike have first dibs. Note: walking is over rough, possibly steep terrain. Bring water and snacks, a hiking pole if desired. Free.
Tuesday, May 30, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Special art and wildflower walk – a “Gather” – co-sponsored with the Jackson Hole Land Trust featuring guest artist Bronwyn Minton. This “Gather” is part of the FoundSpace project which celebrates conservation and art. Participants are invited to walk the slopes of East Gros Ventre Butte to discuss and collect natural materials representative of the feel and look of the valley. After an overview of the property by Derek Ellis, JHLT Stewardship Direction, Frances Clark, local botanist, will highlight the wild plants found in the sagebrush hills and aspen stands. Brownwyn Minton will encourage collection of natural materials and stimulate insights into the nature of the land and how these items and ideas could be used to create a FoundSpace installation. Bronwyn’s final work will be on display—among others—along the Stilson Bike Path near the Wilson Centennial Ponds from June 3 to late August. Be a part of Bronwyn’s inspiration, while also enjoying a wildflower day overlooking the National Elk Refuge. We will park just off Spring Gulch Road. Space is limited: please RSVP to tetonplants@gmail.com, by Monday noon, May 29, to confirm and receive directions. The public is welcome to attend the FoundSpace celebration at Wilson Centennial Ponds on Friday, June 9. Free.
Tuesday, May 23, 6-8pm, Orval C. Harrison, author of Wildflowers of Star Valley and the Tri-Basin Country, will talk about botanizing along the Grey’s and Salt Rivers. Mr. Harrison will cover a range of topics related to the flowers of Star Valley: wandering nearby mountains, creeks, and forks; writing his book; describing special habitats from sulphur springs to alpine heights, and highlighting invasive to sensitive species. This is a great opportunity to see and hear about the part of the flora of the upper Snake River Watershed many of us are unfamiliar with. We are extremely fortunate to have Mr. Harrison! Teton County Library. FREE.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017, 6-8pm, “Cheatgrass on the Bridger-Teton National Forest,” Teton County Library, FREE. Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) continues to threaten biological diversity and ecological integrity within and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. This non-native weed competes with native plant species, changes fire regimes, decreases wildlife habitat and impacts recreation opportunities. Come learn about the biology, ecological impacts, and management challenges of this invasive grass in out national forest. Presenters include: Chad Hayward, USFS, Acting Ranger for the Greys River District; Julie Kraft, Sublette County Weed & Pest; Erika Edmiston and Mark Daluge, Teton County Weed and Pest; and Alyson Courtemanch, Biologist with Wyoming Game and Fish. Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Open to the public and FREE.
Tuesday, March 28, 6-8 p.m., “Fire Effects from Big to Small – Individual Plant Response to Landscape Level Patterns,” Teton County Library. A panel of members from the Teton Interagency Fire Management team will discuss how fire effects can be characterized using monitoring of plant populations on individual fires, through population effects. These can be scaled up to landscape structure patterns. Each of these scales can contribute to diversity across the landscape. Panelists will include Diane Abendroth, Interagency Fire Ecologist, GTNP Martina Keil, BTNF Botanist; and Tobin Kelley, BTNF Fire/Timber Staff Officer. Come hear how fires affect the ecology of the Jackson Hole area and beyond, and ask your questions of these fire experts.
Tuesday, February 28, 6-8 p.m.,Teton County Library, “For Everything There Was a Season — Native Plants in a Changing Climate.” As the climate warms, spring is starting sooner and sooner in the Tetons. Are plants coming out and flowering earlier than they used to? And if so, what does this mean for the animals that depend on them? Dr. Corinna Riginos and Dr. Geneva Chong will talk about phenology — or “the order in which things appear” — and how historic data from Frank Craighead and a little help from native plant enthusiasts like you can help us understand how plants are responding to climate change. Dr. Corinna Riginos, Research Associate, Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative and Dr. Geneva Chong, Research Ecologist, US Geological Survey. Co-sponsored by the Teton County Library. Free and open to the public.
Tuesday, Jan. 31 (not Jan 24), 6:00-8:00 pm, Annual “Teton Plants Social and Plant Collage.” Once again Teton Plants invites you to participate in our annual social and plant collage. In the depths of winter (and this winter is indeed deep!) share favorite photos or other items (art, books, crafts, writings) celebrating plants and their habitats. Be prepared to share informally your enthusiasm, questions, and talent to create a community collage of wild (or tame) plant impressions. Limit 5 minutes per person. Also, bring an edible to share. Meet at: Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. FREE, all welcome.
Tuesday, November 22, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. – Teton County Library, “Thanksgiving for Seeds: How Seeds Create Our Habitats,” with Frances Clark, Botanist, Teton Plants. Seeds grow into the plants that form our natural communities here in Jackson Hole. Their strategies for survival: when to sprout and where — are intriguing. Some grow right away, others wait until winter is done, still others require fire or a fungus to get going. Frances Clark, local botanist, will introduce you to these complexities to provide a greater understanding the fascinating creativity of nature. Co-sponsored by Teton County Library. Free and open to the public. Frances Clark has been an educator and botanist for over 35 years, including the last 5 years here in Jackson Hole. She is program coordinator for Teton Plants, a chapter of the Wyoming Native Plant Society.
Tuesday, Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m. – Teton County Library “Douglas Fir Fire History and Dynamics in Jackson Hole” with Kevin Krasnow, researcher and Ggaduate school instructor, Teton Science School. Scientists have studied fires and lodgepole pine in Yellowstone for many years. Much less is understood about fire and Douglas fir here in the Jackson Hole area. Kevin Krasnow will discuss his research using tree cores, scars, and old maps to determine the effects of fire on Douglas fir, a relatively low-elevation, fire-resistant tree. His findings indicate how stand age, structure, and situation affect the intensity and effect of fires and the unique ecology and plasticity of Douglas fir forests. It also provides a window into the future of the landscape with climate change. Co-sponsored by the Teton County Library. Free and open to the public.
Tuesday, September 27, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Teton County Library. “Wildflowers of Yellowstone” with Katy Duffy, retired National Park educator. Explore Yellowstone habitats from the hydrothermal basins to the Northern Range with an eye to wildflowers, from the plentiful ones to the rarities. Discover how the park’s volcanic history affects its vegetation. See how plants differ in the northern parts of the park that receive much less winter moisture than the wetter southern areas. Katy Duffy, retired National Park Service resource education ranger, will take us on a botanical tour of Yellowstone where she lived, worked and enjoyed wildflowers for 15 years. Katy also lived, worked and enjoyed wildflowers in Grand Teton for 18 years.
Friday, August 5, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon, “Distilling Wild Plants for Health and Wellbeing.” Wilson. Ben Clark, owner of American Wilderness Botanicals, LLC, will present an overview of the process of Artisan Steam Distillation of a selection of native wild plants using Copper Alembic Stills crafted in Portugal. Ben utilizes wyoming sagebrush, lodgepole pine, wild yarrow, goldenrod and fireweed, among several other native botanicals. He will describe the process that has been used for many centuries in order to obtain essential oils and essential waters known as “hydrosols.” Afterwards, Ben will lead a short plant walk in the aspen forest behind the Barn Healing Center where he will identify the plants and show how he wildcrafts them for the process of steam distillation. Free program sponsored by Teton Plants, a chapter of the Wyoming Native Plant Society: www. tetonplants.org. For more information on American Wilderness Botanicals: http://www.AmericanWildernessBotanicals.com
Thursday, July 14th, Wildflower Hike into the Palisades Wilderness Study Area. Susan Marsh, artist and author, will lead the hike to the Black Canyon overlook and Mount Elly. We will view wildflowers along the way and learn about the essential role they play as part of the diverse vegetation in the Palisades Wilderness Study Area. This is a moderately difficult 4-mile hike with approximately 1000’ elevation gain. For more information and to register: contact the Wyoming Wilderness Association. Phone: 307-672-2751; Email: kathryn@wildwyo.org
Friday, July 8, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Turpin Meadows Ranch and Black Rock Creek Flower Foray. Join Frances Clark and Susan Marsh, local botanists, for a day of wildflower exploration in the Buffalo Valley and beyond! We will carpool from Jackson north to look for wildflowers in the fields surrounding the Turpin Meadow Ranch compound. After a delicious lunch at the renovated historic lodge, we will continue on to explore Black Rock Creek in the afternoon, before returning to Jackson by 4:00. We are hoping for an array of wildflowers typical of stream edges and high mountain meadows. Turpin Meadow Ranch turpinmeadowranch.com offers a simple and delicious lunch menu of soup, salads, and sandwiches, as well as, daily selection of ice cream.
Tuesday, May 24, 6-8pm, “Native and Non-Native Plants in the Garden,” Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Growing native plants can benefit pollinators, birds, and other wildlife by creating micro-habitats. This natural diversity also adds to the pleasure of watching your garden grow. On the other hand, non-native invasive exotics can become bullies in your garden and overwhelm wild places beyond. This evening will feature a range of speakers: Amy Collette from Teton County Weed and Pest; Susan Marsh, local gardener and naturalist; and Wes Timmerman, photographer. Come and share your gardening experiences. Co-sponsored by Teton County Library
Tuesday, April 26, 6-8pm, “The Ecology of Wyoming: Twenty Years of Remarkable Changes,” Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Twenty-two years ago, Dennis Knight, long-time University of Wyoming professor, wrote the definitive book on the ecology of Wyoming, describing what plants grow where and why, and how wildlife and land management is dependent on (and affects) the habitats of the region. A second edition of Mountains and Plains: The Ecology of Wyoming Landscapes has now been published by Yale University Press (website: mountainsandplains.net). Dr. Knight was motivated by how much has changed since 1994: wolves have been reintroduced; wildfires and bark beetle epidemics have become more common; sage grouse then abundant have been proposed for protection by the Endangered Species Act; habitat has been fragmented by new roads constructed for energy and residential developments; and there was a time when aspen groves were dying in some areas. Moreover, the first edition barely mentioned climate change—not a hot topic back then. The new edition is co-authored with George Jones, William Reiners and William Romme. Dr. Knight will present an engaging overview of new information added to the second edition, which includes a new chapter on wetlands, the probable effects of climate change, and new approaches to conservation. Those interested in the ecology of Wyoming are encouraged to attend.
Tuesday, March 22, 6-8pm, “Biomolecules and Folklore: Understanding Traditional Plant Use in the Tetons through Archaeology and Ethnography,” Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Presentation by Matt Stirn, Rebecca Sgouros, and Sharon Kahin of the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum. The ancient Tetons were a wealth of plant and animal resources for the Native American tribes who frequented the area. Wild edibles covered the valley floor of Jackson Hole and continued up into the Tetons above tree line. While some exciting research has been conducted on the historical use of plants in the Jackson Hole region, much remains to be explored. During recent years, archaeologists and ethnographers have worked together to identify culturally significant plant species throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The talk will begin by looking at research currently being conducted in the Teton and Wind River Ranges, and will explore how archaeologists use tactics such as archaeobotany, biomolecular residue analysis, and satellite imagery to uncover clues about past plant use. The presentation will also include new information gathered on the traditional use of both edible and medicinal plants in the Jackson Hole and the Greater Yellowstone Region learned from recent oral histories conducted with both Shoshone and Crow elders and healers. Free and open to the public. Co-sponsored by the Teton County Library.
Tuesday, February 23, 6-8pm, “Whitebark Pine Ecology and Management in the Greater Yellowstone Area,” Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Dan Reinhart, Supervisory Vegetation Ecologist with the Grant Teton National Park, will discuss the importance of whitebark pine to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem including its food value for greater Yellowstone wildlife, as well as its importance on hydrological systems throughout the year. With the rapid decline of whitebark pine forests due to insects, disease, fire management, and potential climate change scenarios, Dan will discuss cooperative efforts to evaluate the status of whitebark pine in the Greater Yellowstone Area and management efforts for protecting and restoring this species’ survival into the future in high elevation habitats. Program is co-sponsored with Teton County Library. Free and open to the public.
Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016, 6:00-8:00 pm, “Annual Native Plant Society Social and Plant Collage” at the Teton County Library. In deep winter, we wildflower folk crave green life and good company. Come together to share your favorite photos of the year or other items (art, books, crafts) celebrating plants and their habitats. Be prepared to speak informally about your enthusiasm, questions, and talent to create a community collage of wild plant impressions. Limit 3-5 minutes per person. Have a plant book to pass along to a fellow plant enthusiast, please bring it! Tasty, easy-to-eat nibbles welcome. Meet at: Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium B, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. FREE, all welcome. For details: tetonplants.org or email tetonplants@gmail.com
Tuesday, November 24, 6pm, “Thanksgiving Botany,” at the Teton County Library. Frances Clark of Teton Plants will provide food for talk around your Thanksgiving table. What did the Pilgrims eat at the First Thanksgiving? Not apple pie or sweet potatoes. But yes, corn, beans, and squash. What do you feast upon for this holiday? What parts of the plant are you eating: root, bark, stem, seeds? Where do your favorite foods originate? Civilizations around the world have relished vegetables and fruits for 1000s of years.
Tuesday, Oct. 27, 6pm, “Beyond Morels: Foraging for Edible Plants in the Tetons How to Identify, Cook, and Preserve Wild Greens and Mushrooms,” at the Teton County Library. After delivering babies and practicing gynecology for two decades, Dr. Annie Fenn has traded her life as a physician for another passion: cooking and writing about food, health, and sustainability (jacksonholefoodie.com). The presentation will focus on edible native plant species. Annie will relate her adventures in hunting for morel and chanterelle mushrooms, as well as how to forage for and prepare watercress, stinging nettles and dandelions. A long-time resident of Jackson Hole, Annie Fenn writes a column for Planet Jackson Hole and maintains a website featuring recipes incorporating local foods and how to present them to tantalize the most discerning palates. In addition to her website, follow her recipes and snippets of mountain life on Instagram @jacksonholefoodie and on Twitter @jacksonfoodie. UPDATE: Dr. Fenn promised to share a few of her favorite wild food recipes from this presentation.
Tuesday, Sept. 22, 6- 8 pm, “What the vascular system of trees can tell us about responses to climate change.” Dr. John Sperry has spent his career researching how water moves through plants: from root to leaf. His research subjects include evergreen and deciduous plants growing in southwestern deserts to boreal forests and old world tropics. His microscopic research on the inner workings of plants has application to the big picture of climate change. He will translate his academic studies for the curious lay person in this illustrated program. Dr. Sperry is a biology professor at the University of Utah, as well as an avid arctic canoeist.
Thursday, September 24, 6:00 PM, “Climate Change Comes to Thoreau’s Walden,” featuring Dr. Richard Primack, sponsored by Teton County Library. Over the past 14 years, Dr. Richard Primack, a professor at Boston University (http://www.bu.edu/biology/people/profiles/richard-b-primack/), has compiled a wealth of data from Thoreau’s records and contemporary observations to show how a warming world is impacting the plants, insects, and birds of Walden Pond and the greater Concord, Massachusetts area. In this talk, Dr. Primack will present his fascinating findings and consider how Thoreau would react to the modern problem of climate change if he were alive today. The presentation will include beautiful photos and numerous quotes from Thoreau. Local hosts Dr. Corinna Riginos and Dr. Geneva Chong will also discuss how they are beginning to apply some of Dr. Primack’s lessons to learn about climate change in the Tetons using data collected by Frank Craighead. For more information about the speaker and program: contact: Corinna Riginos criginos@gmail.com or Geneva Chong geneva_chong@usgs.gov
Wednesday, September 30, 6:00PM, “Climate Change, Fire, and the Future of Greater Yellowstone,” featuring Dr. Monica Turner, sponsored by the Teton County Library. Dr. Monica Turner, a professor at the University of Wisconsin and president-elect of the Ecological Society of America, is the leading expert on fire ecology in the greater Yellowstone system (http://landscape.zoology.wisc.edu/Projects/climate_change_and_disturbance_regimes.html). Dr. Turner will present lessons from more than three decades of research in Yellowstone about the role of fire in this ecosystem, and how that role is changing as the climate warms. Dr. Turner’s groundbreaking research has shown how the forests of Yellowstone have recovered remarkably well in the wake of the 1988 fires, proving the resilience of this dynamic ecosystem. But, warming temperatures and drier conditions are creating new challenges for the forests of Yellowstone, threatening their future. Sponsored by the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance. For more information about the speaker and program call 307.733.9417 or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1527778154142294/
July 10-13, 2015, Wyoming Native Plant Society, Annual Meeting – TWO SIDES OF THE TETONS. A joint annual meeting of the Wyoming and Idaho Native Plant Societies featuring field trips on both the east and west slopes of the Tetons. Trips will range from easy walks to all-day, strenuous hikes and include chair lift rides for tours of high alpine areas. You can register on-line at: http://idahonativeplants.org/statewide-annual-meeting/ or by using the registration form mailed with the newsletter and posted with the newsletter.Register now for three days of exciting field trips, dinner and featured speaker Dr. Dennis Knight at the Driggs City Center the evening of Saturday, July 11, and camping at Reunion Flat, our basecamp in Teton Canyon – the same low camping fee applies whether you stay one night or four nights. It can accommodate both RVs and tents.There are numerous other camping options in the canyon. There are a small number of cabins near Driggs that can be reserved at Teton Valley Cabins (208-354-8153, tetonvalleycabins.com). To reserve a cabin, call soon and tell them you are with the Native Plant Society to get a cabin in our reserved block. Register now and mark your calendars for adventure!
Saturday, June 20, 9am- noon, 2015 – Cache Creek Flower Walk with Susan Marsh. Susan Marsh, author of several books and hiking guides and a denizen of Cache Creek, will lead us up the old road looking for many flowers in bloom. Meet at the main parking lot, at the end of Cache Creek Drive.
CANCELLED/FLOWERS NOT BLOOMING–Tuesday, June 2, 2015 (tentative), 9:00am: Ever had the chance to see Camas and White Wyethia in full bloom? We will drive about 45 miles North of Jackson to visit this unique meadow in northern Grand Teton National Park. Timing of this trip depends on peak bloom. Stay tuned for details. We will send you an update.
Tuesday, May 26, 6-8 pm, “Natural Communities of Jackson Hole,” Teton County Library. Our wildlife thrives in different plant communities: Wetlands, grasslands, sagebrush steppe, forests, and meadows. Frances Clark, local botanist, will show slides of the different landscape types, highlighting the plants in each and the animals that depend on them. FREE.
Tuesday, April 28, 6-8 p.m, “Cache Creek to Flat Creek: A Tour of Trailside Plant Life.” Naturalist Susan Marsh will take us on a tour of Cache Creek covering ecological relationships among six plant communities that can easily be seen from the trails. Emphasis will be on plant species both familiar and unusual among the 300+ species found in the area. Susan Marsh is author of several books and hiking guides and is a denizen of Cache Creek. Co-sponsored by Teton Plants, a chapter of the Wyoming Native Plant Society, and Teton County Library. Teton County Library, FREE. All welcome!
Tuesday, March 24, 2015, NO MEETING. Most of us will be at the Nature Mapping potluck dinner featuring science writer David Quammen. Center for the Arts, 5:30-9pm. Open to the public and free. More info at http://www.naturemappingjh.org/.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015, 6 – 8 pm, Teton County Library, “Photographing Favorite Flowers Close-up,” by Loren Nelson, Teton Photography Group and Natural Photography. Trying to take photos of a native plant, perhaps with a pollinator, and it comes out blurry or too busy? Learn some tips from Loren Nelson on how to compose your shot and have it sharp and colorful. We have invited a couple of other guest experts to share their techniques as well. Co-sponsored by the Wyoming Native Plant Society – Teton Chapter and Teton County Library. Teton County Library, Auditorium B. FREE. More information: tetonplants@gmail
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015, 6 – 8 pm, Teton County Library, “Native Plant Society Social and Plant Collage.” In deep winter, we wildflower folk crave green life and good company. Come together to share your favorite photos or other items (art, books, crafts, writings) celebrating plants and their habitats. Be prepared to share informally your enthusiasm, questions, and talent to create a community collage of wild plant impressions. Limit five minutes per person. Also, bring an edible to share. Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium B, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. FREE, all welcome. More information: tetonplants@gmail.com
Tuesday, November 25, 2014, 6 pm, Teton County Library, “Plant Attractions: Science, Scenes, and Sense.” Free. We are compiling a collage of media excerpts from such acclaimed sources as Science Friday, TED talks, BBC and even the New Yorker. While still under consideration, topics may include new findings of plant “microbiomes”; how dodder affects its host plants; and the question of plant “intelligence.” And we will show fascinating clips on pollination, cucumber tendrils and seed dispersal. We trust the evening will be informative, provocative and fun!
Tuesday, October 28, 2014, 6 pm, Teton County Library, “Biodiversity: What it is and how to measure it.” Free. Many are familiar with the word “biodiversity,” but what does it really mean and how do we apply it? Using classic and local examples, Mike Merigliano will show different ways to measure ecological diversity and how these methods can be used to aid management of natural areas. Mike Merigliano, Ph.D., is a plant ecologist who has specialized in riparian areas and other habitats throughout the Western U.S. He has called the Greater Yellowstone region his home for over thirty years. Co-sponsored with the Teton County Library.
Tuesday, Sept 23, 2014, 6 pm, Teton County Library, 125 Virginia Lane, Jackson, “Changing paradigms of aspen ecology and management.” Free. Kevin Krasnow PhD, research and graduate faculty with the Teton Science Schools. Quaking aspen comprises only a small fraction of North American forests, yet contributes significant biological diversity and is considered by many to be the most important deciduous forest type in western North America. In recent years, fundamental assumptions concerning aspen clonal age, regeneration, and genetic diversity have been challenged, and these findings have important implications for management and persistence of aspen in USA western forests. In his presentation, Kevin will discuss this changing paradigm of aspen ecology and the associated challenges and opportunities for this species in the coming century. Bio: Kevin’s research focuses on disturbance ecology and seeks to understand and identify opportunities for increasing ecosystem resilience. His past research focused on aspen ecology and management, as well as, fuels mapping, fire history, fire effects, and wildfire simulation in the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada.
Thursday, July 31^st, 2^nd Annual Weed Pull and Plant Identification at Emily’s Pond. Join Teton County Weed and Pest District, Teton Conservation District and Teton County/Jackson Parks and Recreation Department for an opportunity to learn about and identify native, non-native and invasive plant species during this weed pull at Emily’s Pond. This is a great location to monitor the reduction of weeds due to our annual weed pulls. Bring water and work gloves and wear sturdy shoes. Free, pre-registration is required by Tuesday, July 30^th. Register at the Teton County/Jackson Parks and Recreation Department 739-9025 www.tetonparksandrec.org
Saturday or Sunday, July 26 or 27, Alpine Plants via Tram with Wasatch Rock Garden Society. A second chance to take the tram up Rendezvous Mtn. We are still working out the details of this co-sponsored trip. Stay tuned.
Monday, July 21 or Wednesday, July 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Teton County Library. Map Invasives JH—Amy Collett. Teton County Weed and Pest Control (TCWP) has a new volunteer initiative. Now you can help protect habitat for our native plants and wildlife by helping TCWP and its Western-state partners prevent the spread of invasive plant species. In this workshop you will learn to identify 12 top-priority noxious weeds and map them while you are out hiking and enjoying our native flora. This information will help professionals stay ahead of invasive species infestations while there is a high potential for eradication. Space is limited to 20/class. Please call Amy Collett at 307-733-8419 to sign up. More information will soon be posted on their website: http://www.tcweed.org/Map-Invasives-JH.php
July 11-13, “The Art of Wildflower Identification,” AND July 25-17, “Drawing the Natural World.” Meredith E. Campbell, local plant illustrator and artist extraordinaire, is offering two classes at the Art Association of Jackson Hole. To register call: Art Association of Jackson Hole 307-733-6379.
Saturday, July 12, & Saturday, August 30th, 10am – 2 pm, Native Plant Field Class with Klara Varga. Join Teton Conservation District (TCD) and instructor Klara Varga, ace botanist and teacher, in the field to study native plants. Participants will learn scientific names of plants, terms used to characterize plants, and characteristics of plant families. Emphasis will be on common trees, shrubs and wildflowers. Klara is a great teacher and makes it fun! Both courses will be held entirely in the field. Classes will not be postponed – be prepared for any and all weather. We’ll meet at TCD’s office located at 420 W. Pearl Ave. in Jackson. Bring: appropriate field clothing, sunscreen, water, lunch, a hand lens or magnifier, notebook, and pencils. Additional suggested items include field guides, cameras, and umbrella.Class size will be limited to 10 people on a first come first serve basis. Participants may register for one or both of the classes. Cost: $15 for each course. To register contact Rachel Daluge at (307) 733-2110 or rachel@tetonconservation.org
Friday, July 11, 10 am -1 pm-ish, Alpine Plants via Tram with Klara Varga. Ride the tram up to explore the alpine zone of Rendezvous Mountain. Klara Varga, ace botanist and teacher, will discuss the ecology of this harsh environment and help you identify the tiny and robust plants that survive this short growing season. Meet at the base of the tram with your gear for the day, including layers of clothing, boots, and water. Tram tickets for adults (18-64) are $35 or $30 on jacksonhole.com, otherwise the program is free. Check website for other deals: http://www.jacksonhole.com/tramtickets.html.
Monday, July 7, 8:30 am – 11:30 am, Native Plants and their Uses – Trail to Ski Lake – Jean Jorgensen. Amateur naturalist Jean Jorgensen will add a new dimension to our observations of native plants: what they are used for! People, past and present, use plants for medicine, dyes, fiber, fuel, and more. We will start our exploration at the trail head for Ski Lake and will walk about a mile up the trail at a botanist’s pace (e.g. slowly). The 7500-8000′ elevations have an array of flowers from early spring (spring beauties) to summer (louseworts). Jean Jorgensen has enjoyed leading eclectic plant walks in the valley for many years. A past owner of The Herb Store and Wyoming Wildcrafters herbal products company, Jean enjoys sharing her knowledge and stories with students of all ages. Directions: We will carpool from Owen Bircher Park in Wilson (across from the Old Wilson School Community House, 5655 Main St.) promptly at 8:30. Or you can meet us at the Ski Lake trail head at 8:45. Bring: Wear hiking boots, bring handlens, notebook, water, and a snack.
Weekend of June 20 – 22. Wyoming Native Plant Society Meeting and Field Trip. Red Canyon Ranch, Lander , WY http://www.wynps.org/activities/2014-annual-meeting/
Wednesday, June 25, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, Wildflower Hike, Old Pass Rd. We plan to hike the lower portion of the Old Pass Road or sections of trail near the trailhead on this outing (approximately 2-3 miles roundtrip with moderate elevation gain). Amy Collett from Teton County Weed and Pest District and Rachel Daluge from the Teton Conservation District will identify and discuss wildflowers, native and non-native plants as well as invasive plant species. Meet at the Old Pass Road Trailhead. Participants should plan to bring snacks, water, hat, sunscreen and raingear. Lunch provided: wraps and drinks will be at the trailhead following the hike. Free, pre-registration is required by Tuesday, June 24th. Register at the Teton County/Jackson Parks and Recreation Department 739-9025 www.tetonparksandrec.org Directions: Take Rt 22 West toward Teton Pass. From Hungry Jack’s in Wilson, go 1.1 mile to Trail Creek Road on the left. Go .9 miles to end.
Friday May 30, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, 6th Annual Native Plant Species Seminar. Join us for a full day of programs on native plant gardening, “priority weeds”, soils, and botany, with a native plant walk in the late afternoon. Pre-registration required by Wednesday, May 28. $10 donation for lunch, refreshments, booklet. Space is limited! Sponsored by the Teton Conservation District. Where: Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Contact: Rachel Daluge 307-733-2110 or Rachel@tetonconservation.org. Details: http://www.tetonconservation.org/calendar/
Tuesday May 27, 6:00 pm, “Intermountain Flora with Drs. Noel and Patricia Holmgren.” Drs. Noel and Patricia Holmgren, authors of the 8-volume Intermountain Flora, will discuss how they documented every plant species found between the Sierra Nevada and the Rocky Mountains (almost 4,000!). Among many accolades, in 2012 this eminent couple was recipient of the prestigious Asa Gray Award for lifetime achievement in the field of botany from the American Society of Plant Taxonomists. They have spent 40 years together collecting, describing and illustrating all the species in the region under the auspices of the New York Botanical Garden. This impressive work serves to record the unique plant diversity of the region and encourage its conservation. Furthermore, as a local botanist says, “The Holmgrens are really nice people!” We are privileged to have the these renowned scientists come speak to us in Jackson. Save this very special date! Where: Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Free!
Friday May 23, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, “Celebrating Wildflower Week: Early Flower Walk” with Susan Marsh. This will be a combination on-and-off trail wander, starting with a brief look at the rockmat and other plants near the trailhead. We will go up the trail to the first junction where a side trail will take us to a small plateau with nice views and plants not seen elsewhere in Cache Creek. IF time allows, we can continue over to Woods Canyon. For those on a more limited schedule there is the option to turn around any time.  Meet at: Nelson Drive parking area, Putt-putt Trail. Directions: From the east end of Broadway in Jackson, turn right onto Nelson St. Continue to first left onto Nelson Drive. The parking area is on the left just before the first house. Susan Marsh is a naturalist and writer in Jackson. Free!
Tuesday, April 22, 6:00 pm, “Restoring Sagebrush Habitat Plant by Plant in GTNP.” Sagebrush ecosystems in Grand Teton National Park are some of the most floristically diverse areas in the park and are important habitats for sage grouse, antelope, elk, bison, and moose. The Park boundaries encompass areas that were historically homesteaded. When these homesteads were active ranches, the land was converted from sagebrush to hayfields for livestock production and are now dominated by non-native pasture grasses. The park has initiated an effort to restore 4,000 acres of hayfields back to native sagebrush ecosystems. We will be talking about the successes and challenges of restoration and what we have learned from more than 5 years of removing non-native plants, experimenting with cover crops, and reseeding with native plants. This rangeland program will complement previous ones on Sage Grouse habitat and rangeland management, by digging into the theory and practice of planting the plants, which all our wildlife depends upon. Presenter: Miles Procter Rangeland Technician, Grand Teton National Park, Moose, Wyoming. Where: Teton County Library, Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Free.
Tuesday, March 25, 6:00 pm, “A Walk Around Wyoming, Rare Wildflowers.” Charmain Delmatier, a rare plant expert, will take us on a virtual journey across some of Wyoming’s beautiful and rare landscapes and highlighting the rare flowers associated with each site. There will be lots of awesome images and with a closer look at the latest rare plant community discovered close to Jackson! Where: Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Free.
Tuesday, February 25, 6:00 pm, “Managing Rangeland for Sage Grouse.” Take a walk with Rangeland Specialist Karen Clause and grouse specialist Meghann D. Smith through the sagebrush to see what a sage grouse sees. What do these specialized birds want and need for habitat? How do we affect their habitat? What can we do to manage rangeland that is beneficial to their needs? We will explore what we do know (and don’t!) about their habitat needs, the threats to their existence, and what we can do and are doing to help this bird remain part of the “sagebrush sea”. The two speakers are from the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Pinedale, Wyoming. Where: Teton County Library, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Free.
Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2014, 6:00-8:00 pm, “Native Plant Society Social and Wild Photos.” In deep winter, we wildflower folk crave a bit of green life and some good company. Come together to share your favorite images of Wyoming plants and habitats, with festive food. We invite you to select 3-5 favorite photos taken last year (or anytime) and to share your enthusiasm, questions, knowledge about each one. Limit 5 minutes per person total. Also, bring a light dish to share. No photos? Just come and enjoy the pictures and company! Where: Teton County Library Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. See details below….
Details for Jan. 28, 2014, Potluck:
Images: We encourage you to provide digital images. Select 3-5 digital images. They can be favorite flowers or places with flowers; natives in your garden; plants you want identified; intriguing aspects of a curious plant… Format: JPG. Resolution: 500 KB to 2 MB to screen well. Deadline: we would be glad to receive your images in advance – email them to tetonplants@gmail.com by Sunday, January 26, with this in the Subject line: “images for potluck.” Or bring them on a USB flash drive to transfer to our computer. If so, please arrive by 5:45.
Commentary: 3-5 minutes max. Please be prepared to say a few words about your pictures, for example, why you like the plant, where you found it, how do you grow it in your garden, a fascinating fact, question of identification, etc. We suggest 3 minutes, and no more than 5 minutes per person, so everyone can have a turn.
Festive Food: Bring a light dish to share. We will provide tea, and non-alcoholic beverages, as well. Any advance notification would help us “round out” the offerings. Best if it is easy to eat off of small plates. Ideas: cheese and crackers, vegetables/chips and dip, finger food like stuffed grape leaves, quiche, fruits like strawberries and grapes, sweets like cookies, and bars, etc.
Also, bring your thoughts for field trips, other programs, for this coming wildflower season!
Tuesday, Nov 26, 2013, 6:00 p.m. “Darwin and the Tree of Life” video. Starring David Attenborough, this BBC production invites us to contemplate civilization’s progress in defining the origin of life on Earth. BBC notes: “David Attenborough asks three key questions: how and why did Darwin come up with his theory of evolution? Why do we think he was right? And why is it more important now than ever before?” Come relax with us two days before Thanksgiving and enjoy this hour-long movie with popcorn! You may pick up some conversation points for Thanksgiving dinner! This film is a good complement to National Museum of Wildlife Art exhibit: “Darwin’s Legacy: The Evolution of Wildlife Art.” We thank the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival for making this DVD available. Free. Where: Teton County Library Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 6:00 p.m. Autumnal Flourishes: How Wild Plants Prepare for Winter. Native plants prepare for winter with production of fruits, colorful leaves, and plump buds and bodies. How and why are fruits formed and what disperses them? Why do leaves turn colors and then fall off? What stimulates buds to form and starch to be stored into the plant’s body? And what prevents plants from freezing in the dead of winter? These intriguing questions will be answered by Frances Clark, botanist, with an illustrated talk. Free. Teton County Library Ordway Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson.
Sunday, September 29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fall Color Hike with Susan Marsh.
Tuesday, September 24, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Fun with Fall Fruits – Can you identify Yellowbells, Balsamroot, and Sticky Geranium after the flowers are gone? How do these native wildflowers disperse their seeds: fling, fly, float, or stick? This interactive program will encourage you to look closely at collected specimens and figure out how flowers turn into fruits. The first part will be examining dried specimens using hand-lenses and answering questions to stimulate your curiosity, then we will follow up with a slide presentation matching the fall fruits to spring and summer wildflowers. Prepared by members of the Wyoming Native Plant Society. Appropriate for children over 14. Teton County Library, Auditorium, 125 Virginian Lane, Jackson. Free. In partnership with Teton County Library
Saturday, August, 10, 2013, 10 a.m.-noon: Granite Creek Trail Plant Walk and Soak! A joint field trip of the Teton and Sublette Chapters of the Wyoming Native Plant Society with co-leaders Amy Taylor and Karen Clause. We will botanize mountain meadows and creekside habitat. Difficulty: moderate 1-2 hour plant walk followed by optional soak in Granite Hot Springs. Leaders: Amy Taylor and Difficulty: Moderate 1-2 hour hike followed by optional soak in Granite Hot Springs. Bring: swimsuit, towel, money for hot springs entrance fee ($6.00 adults, $4.00 children). Meet in parking lot below hot springs. Directions: From Jackson, at Jct of Rt 22 and W. Broadway, go South on U.S. HWYs 189/91/26/etc south for 11.8 miles, to Hoback Jct, bear left following 189/191 for another 11.4 mi. Turn left onto Granite Creek Road to end.
Friday, August 2, 2013, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.: White Bark Pine and Wildflowers. Karl Buermeyer, North Zone Vegetation Manager for the U.S. Forest Service, will lead a hike to see and talk about the plight of the whitebark pine. A symbolic tree of high elevations, whitebark pine is dying due to a complex of causes with significant ecological consequences. Hear the response of land managers in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem for its survival. We will hike a portion Holmes Cave Trail near Togwotee Pass to reach the whitebark pine and to delight in summer meadows. Portions of the trail pass through open pine forest, streams, and meadows. Difficulty: We will be at elevations between 8,500-10,000’ with stretches of trail rising 500’ in a half mile. We will likely hike about 5 of the 8.8 mile roundtrip route to the caves, turning back at the summit of the trail and Teton Wilderness boundary. Meet: in Jackson at 8:00 sharp at Homeland Parking Lot (north side), N Cache and E. Gill, to carpool, or 9:00 AM at the Blackrock Ranger Station, 8 miles east of Moran Junction on US 26.
Saturday, June 29, 2013, 9am – noon: Kelly Hayfields Restoration Walk. Join Vegetation Ecologist, Jason Brengle, to learn about Grand Teton National Park’s restoration project on Antelope Flats. The Park is restoring agricultural fields back to sagebrush shrubland to provide quality wildlife habitat. Learn the challenges and rewards of putting “nature back together again”. Jason will show us progress at 2-3 sites of an ambitious 4,500-acre, 15-year project. Difficulty:Level, but slightly rough walking for approx. ½ mile. Bring: Wear long pants, sturdy boots. Meet promptly at 9:00 parking area north side of Antelope Flats Road to carpool up the road. Directions: Take Hwy 26/89/187 one mile north of Moose Jct. to Antelope Flats Road. Go east (R) ½ mile to large parking area on left. (Just beyond lane to left with houses).
Saturday, July 27, 2013, 8:30 a.m. -2 p.m.: Carnivorous Plants. Join wetland ecologist and Society of Wetland Scientists representative Kent Werlin as he leads a field trip to explore the ecology and plant communities in backcountry pothole (kettle pond) wetlands near Jackson Lake. This day trip will take you off-trail to view unique plants like the English sundew. We will be hiking about 2-3 miles primarily through sagebrush and lodgepole pine. You must sign up in advance for this event, space is limited. The trip is co-sponsored by the Society of Wetland Scientists – Rocky Mountain Chapter and the Teton Regional Land Trust, and is limited to 20 participants. RSVP by July 19 {sorry Full} to tetonplants@gmail.com Difficulty: The 2-3 mile hike is moderately difficult because of the downed lodgepole to maneuver around and over. Terrain is moderately rolling. Bring typical hiking gear and shoes that can get wet (sundews are on a floating peat mat). Meet at Grand Teton National Park Visitor Center Parking Lot (northeast side near road), Moose. We will carpool from there.
Friday-Sunday, July 26-28, 2013: Wyoming Native Plant Society – Beartooth Mountains. For details: http://www.wynps.org/2013/04/2013-annual-meeting-announcement-and-registration-form
Thursday, July 18, 2013, 10am – noon: Native Plant Hike and Noxious Weed Pull. Join Teton Conservation District, Teton County Weed and Pest District, and the Wyoming Native Plant Society for a hike to learn about native and nonnative plant species. We will also pull noxious weeds to improve wildlife habitat. Bring gloves, water, food, sunscreen, sun hat, and appropriate clothing/footwear. Meet at the Karnes Trailhead on Wildlife Dr. in Jackson. All ages (parents or guardian must accompany kids). Free, please RSVP by July 15th to Rachel at 733-2110 or rachel@tetonconservation.org
Sunday, July 14, 10-1:00ish: Wildflowers Galore Hike- Frances Clark will lead this “impromptu” botany walk to catch peak wild meadow bloom. The moderate hike starts at the beginning of Two-Ocean Lake Road in GTNP. We will walk up the closed (to vehicles) road through Sage, Forest, Aspen, and Meadow habitats for about 1.5 miles. While flowers are everywhere, the meadow flowers are fabulous!! We will identify different common plants in their habitats and look for their pollinators. And we will just revel in the amazing floral show! Bring your camera, bug spray, bear spray, snacks or lunch. We will walk in about 1.5 miles; however you are welcome to continue on your own to the lake. Appropriate for children over 10. Difficulty: Moderate, some uphill grades along dirt road. Three miles RT. Meet: At the begining of Two-Ocean Lake Road, GTNP. Directions: From the south, go through the Moran entrance of Grand Teton National Park to Pacific Creek Road. Continue to the first left road, with the closed gate. Park there, or just before. Do not block gate or road.
Tuesday, June 4, 9:00am: Native Plant Garden Work Day!! We maintain a small educational native plant garden north of Visitor Center on North Cache Street, Jackson. Tuesday, we will be replacing the old borders with new ones and cleaning up the garden for the season (weeding, adding plants and mulch, re-writing labels, etc.) Refreshments provided. Bring work gloves. Come for any or all of the morning; we hope to finish before noon. Also, if you have native plants from your garden/yard to donate, please contact us. Garden space is limited but we have some gaps to fill. Questions: Joan Lucas 733-2523 or Amy Taylor 699-1314. **Special thanks to Kasey and Leanne Mateosky for the delivery and donation of new materials to rebuild the garden borders.**

Sunday, June 2, 9:00-11:00am: Impromptu Botany Foray: Wildflowers Galore at Elk Refuge. What is more beautiful than brilliant yellow Balsamroot intermixed with deep blue Larkspur? Balsamroot with red Paintbrush! All are flowering in abundance along sections of the inner Elk Refuge road. Join Frances Clark for a tour along the road to glory in the magnificent spring bloom and to identify the most common species. We will carpool from the road head to the base of Curtis Canyon and then along Flat Creek Road to the National Forest Boundary, making stops along the way to identify plants, take pictures, and revel. Bring: handlens, notebook, field guide, camera, and binoculars (for birds and plants). Where: Meet at the beginning of Elk Refuge Road, at the eastern end of East Broadway, Jackson. Note to those who wish to go on their own, please respect closure signs by staying along the road and turnouts. Tuesday, May 28, 2013, 6 – 8pm: Spring Wildflowers of the Maritime Alps. Enjoy the virtual delights of botanizing the Maritime Alps along the French-Italian border. Alison Jones and her husband spent a week in Mercantour National Park traversing this scenic and steeply mountainous region. They explored different habitats: sub-alpine meadows, magnificent forests, alpine pastures above timberline, and up and over snowy passes. They photographed an incredible number and variety of species—many related to those in our Grand Teton National Park and gardens! Come feast your eyes on wildflowers! Alison and Dick Jones are lifelong gardeners and wildflower enthusiasts. They have photographed wildflowers and alpine gardens in a great many locations in the U.S. and abroad. Where: Teton County Library Auditorium. Refreshments and gathering at 6:00, program starts promptly at 6:15. Free and open to the public.

- - Friday, May 3, 2013, 8:30 – day: 5th Annual Native Plant Species Seminar. Agenda coming soon, please stand by… Cost: $10 donation – the seminar includes 2 breaks & lunch. Where: Teton Science Schools, Jackson Campus, in the Education Center located at 700 Coyote Canyon Road in Jackson, Wyoming. RSVP: Space is limited! Please RSVP with your name and email or phone by Friday, April 26th to Rachel at the phone number (307) 733-2110 or Rachel@tetonconservation.org
  - Tuesday, April 23, 2013. 6:00 pm: Revealing Connections of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. A slide show and talk by naturalist Kurt Johnson, author of the new title, A Field Guide to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks (March 2013), will illustrate the richness of the region’s ecosystem. He’ll talk about how he produced his field guide, which includes discovering facts, gathering photos and writing the text. Through his curiosity and many years of field experience, he’ll show you how he discovered connections between plants, insects, mammals, birds and geology. Kurt F. Johnson is Chief Naturalist of Spring Creek Ranch, Jackson, WY. After serving on the graduate faculty at the Teton Science School, he began leading natural history programs throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. He also shares his expertise and photographs as owner of Wild Things of Wyoming ( www.wildthingsofwyoming.com). Where: Library Auditorium B. Free. Adult Humanities Coordinator, Oona Doherty, 733-2164 ext. 135, odoherty@tclib.org
  - Tuesday, March 26, 2013, 6:00 pm: Fire Ecology: Past, Present, Future. Many large wildfires have burned across Idaho and the West in recent decades, often threatening people and property. We will likely have more large fires and smoke in the future. What are the implications for native plants and ecosystems now and in she future? Penny Morgan is a professor in the College of Natural Resources at the University of Idaho. She directs the Wildland Fire Program there. She is originally from Jackson Hole and is educated in the West. Where: Teton County Library Auditorium. Refreshments and gathering at 6:00, program starts promptly at 6:30.
  - Tuesday, February 26, 2013, 6pm: Canada’s Thelon River Barrenlands. Beverly Boynton will use slides of her four-week canoe trip on Canada’s Thelon River to ponder the botany of the Barrenlands. Are the Barrens truly barren? Why does the landscape look the way it does? Why is plant diversity so much less in northern Canada than in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which she explored on previous trips? And what are trees doing so far above “tree line”? Beverly Boynton is a long-time Jackson Hole resident with a robust curiosity. In recent years, she has spent time hiking, canoeing, and investigating ecology in the Arctic. Where: Teton County Library, Room X. Refreshments at 6:00, program starts promptly at 6:30.
  - Tuesday, January 29, 2013, 6 pm: Working in the wildflowers: Tetons, Rainier and Olympic Parks. Jim Springer shares a wildflower slide show from his experiences in Olympic, Mount Rainier and Grand Teton National Parks. Jim has been working as a Park Ranger since 1972. Much of his work concerns monitoring and rehabilitating human impacts in the alpine and sub-alpine zone. He received a degree in Botany from the University of Puget Sound in 1977. His photography includes interesting close-ups of flower details that we often miss. Where: 6:00 p.m. – Wyoming Game and Fish, 420 N. Cache in Jackson. Free and open to the public. More info: 307-733-3776
  - Wednesday, January 16, 2013, 9:45 am – 2:00 pm: Snowshoe outing -West side of the Tetons. Join Naturalist Andy Steele on snowshoes to experience the winter world of the sub-alpine. We will look at tree communities, identify trees and the way they survive at 8,000 feet. We will identify plants that still show above the snow. We will also see the tracks of critters and will explore who they are, their habitat relationships, and their strategies for survival. Snowshoe hikers should be prepared for cold . . . this is not an aerobic hike but a walk in the woods. The walk will be of moderate exertion in unpacked snow with a climb of up to 500 ft. Bring snowshoes, poles, lunch, and water. Snowshoe rentals available. Meet at 9:45 am at Grand Targhee Resort naturalist office located next to ski school. Free. Questions: Andy 208-456-0956Andy Steele is a naturalist/interpreter who has led more than one thousand winter snowshoe hikes over the last 10 years as the Naturalist at Grand Targhee Resort. Andy is a retired forester who worked for the Forest Service for 25 years and began his career on the Bridger-Teton NF in 1975. Andy lives in Teton Valley and enjoys sharing the Joys of Nature with all who want to venture into the world of winter

FIELD TRIPS 2012

Saturday, January 14, 2012, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm Game Creek field trip, Do you know your shrubs . . with or without leaves?!? Join Susan Marsh to identify common winter shrubs. Meet at Game Creek trailhead 6 miles south of Jackson. Bring skis or snowshoes even though it may be possible to walk the trail.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012, 7:00 pm “Wild plants for wild life in Jackson Hole”: What plants sustain our common animals–insects, mammals, birds–and how we can identify these green natives. Wyoming Game and Fish, 420 N. Cache in Jackson. Free and open to the public.

Thursday, February 23, 2012, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Snowshoe/Cross country ski outing at Old Pass Road Trailhead: We will join Teton Conservation District and Teton County Weed and Pest District to learn about noxious weeds and the flora and fauna of the area. Help do your part to keep our habitats native by learning to identify good and bad plants in the winter and summer months. Please plan to snowshoe or ski about 3 miles over easy to moderate terrain. Bring gear, water and snacks. Meet at Old Pass Road trailhead outside of Wilson. For more info: Amy Collett or Rachel Daluge.

Saturday, May 26, 2012, 1:00 p.m. Memorial Weekend Wildflowers on Blacktail Butte. Grand Teton NP. Join botanist Klara Varga to explore the spring wildflowers in different habitts on Blacktail Butte. Moderate hike; some steep terrain. Meet at the Blacktail Butte climber’s trail parking area at 1 pm. Take Hwy 191/26/89 north of Jackson. The parking lot is the next pull-out north of the Moose Junction turn-off on the east side of the highway. Park pass not required.

Sunday, June 17, 2012, 9 a.m. – noonish, Antelope Flats Wildflower Walk. Join Frances Clark, local botanist, for an informal foray around Antelope flats and up to the Moose/Wilson overlook to look at the spectacular flowers of the sagebrush habitat. The balsamroot and mule’s ears are blooming for comparison, lupines and buckwheat are emerging while the lark’s-spur and antelope bush begin to fade. There are plenty of Apiaceae/carrot family members to keep us intrigued including the “other yampah” around the overlook at the north end of the Moose/Wilson Road. And there is more…. Bring a good field guide, handlens if you have one, and what you need for a morning’s outing.Meet promptly at the Park Visitor Center, in Moose, at 9:00. Park near the west end, to keep parking spaces available to tourist visitors. We will carpool from there. We will be back around noon.

Saturday, June 23, 2012, 8:00 a.m. – noon/1:00 p.m, Teton Pass area trails, Join long-time resident and naturalist, Jean Jorgensen, for a leisurely walk to learn about the uses and stories of plants. Meet at Owen Bircher Park in Wilson.

Saturday, July 14, 2012, 9:00 a.m. Sheep Creek, Bridger-Teton National Forest, Join author Orval Harrison to explore the headwaters of Sheep Creek and Wyoming Range history. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Bridger-Teton Natl. Forest boundary parking lot just east of Alpine to carpool/drive up Greys River. People camping in the area might also meet at 10:00 a.m. at the junction of the Greys River Rd and Sheep Creek Rd: FS Roads 10138 and 10125. Cold drinks and refreshments will be provided! Co-sponsored by The Nature Conservancy and Star Valley Historical Society. Registration is not required, but we’d like to get a general idea of numbers. If you plan to attend, please let us know via email: ajrtaylor@hotmail.com.

Friday, July 20, 2012, 8:00 a.m.Hanging Canyon to Lake of the Crags, Grand Teton National Park. Very difficult, day-long hike; approx. 6 miles round-trip with 2700’ elevation gain with some low angle slabs and boulders along the way. Hiking poles would be helpful. Stunning views & interesting plants. Meet at Jenny Lake Boat Dock. Park and boat fees apply. Beverly Boynton.

Saturday, August 4, 2012, 9 a.m.-2p.m, Philips Canyon Trail, A loop hike that leads to Phillips Pass and down to Ski Lake before returning to trailhead. Difficult hike due to high elevation and steep terrain. Fireweed displays are typically phenomenal in this area. Park on the south side of Hwy 22, which is part way up Teton pass and across the road from the trailhead. Susan Marsh.

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Teton Plants

Teton Chapter, Wyoming Native Plant Society

Calendar

Upcoming 2020 PROGRAMS and FIELD TRIPS

FIELD TRIPS 2012

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Upcoming 2020 PROGRAMS and FIELD TRIPS

FIELD TRIPS 2012

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