Dandelion: Friend or foe? It seems that the lowly and much maligned, alien dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) does benefit the soil in which it grows. It prefers to root in decalcified, poor soil. Its strong taproot then breaks into the soil and, from below the hard pan, brings up calcium and other minerals, which become available […] Continue reading "The Grapevine (July 2002)"
Something has become glaringly apparent to me over the last 10 years or so, ever since my concerns about invasive weeds firmly took hold: greater education about the fragile and amazing that surrounds and sustains us could not be more needed. Continue reading "We Cannot Ignore Invasives"
Michigan wildflower conference The 15th Annual Wildflower Association of Michigan (WAM) Conference took place as usual on the Michigan State University campus, the first Sunday and Monday in March. For two days, some 450 registrants from all over the state milled about trying to choose prudently from a line-up of 24 speakers, who addressed every […] Continue reading "The Grapevine (May 2002)"
Children’s Wet Meadow Jeannine Palms is an active member of the Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter of Wild Ones. Her front yard and utility strip between the sidewalk and the street are planted with a wondrous variety of native plants – from ferns and spring ephemerals to black-eyed Susans and prairie dock. On her back deck […] Continue reading "The Grapevine (March 2002)"
A personal reflection on discovering the overlooked beauty of moths, this article by Janice Stiefel explores the diversity, ecological importance, and quiet wonder of these night-flying insects. Readers are encouraged to notice what often goes unseen in their own backyards. Continue reading "Beauties of the Evening: The Mysterious, Misunderstood Moths"
What do you say to a neighbor who sees your native garden as 'weeds'? Be sorry, but not for your plants. Be sorry for those who can't see the beauty in restoring our land, the songbirds, butterflies, and the delicate balance of nature. Continue reading "What Do I Tell My Neighbor? A Lesson from Lorrie Otto"
The Marketing and Communications Director is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies that support organizational growth and mission alignment. Reporting to the Executive Director, this position oversees brand management, strategic communications, and digital initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging and a strong national presence. The Marketing Director provides marketing support to chapters, leads digital strategy and […] Continue reading "Wild Ones is Hiring Marketing and Communications Director"
The Chapter Liaison serves as the primary point of contact between Wild Ones national office and local chapters. This role supports chapter leaders by providing guidance, training, resources, and operational assistance to help chapters function effectively, remain compliant, and deliver mission aligned programs within their communities. Reporting to the Member & Chapter Services Director, the Chapter Liaison works closely with […] Continue reading "Wild Ones is Hiring a Chapter Liaison"
The Education and Program Manager is responsible for the day-to-day implementation and management of Wild Ones education programs. Reporting to the Advancement Director, this position ensures programs are effectively coordinated, supported, and delivered in alignment with organizational goals and standards. The Manager works closely with volunteers, committees, and staff to execute programs, manage timelines, and ensure consistent, high-quality experiences for chapters and members. This role plays a critical part in translating program strategy into actionable plans and successful outcomes. Continue reading "Wild Ones is Hiring an Education and Program Manager"
The Member & Chapter Services Director is responsible for overseeing all member- and chapter-facing services to ensure consistent, high-quality experience across the organization. Reporting to the Executive Director, this position provides strategic direction and operational leadership for chapter support, member services, and administrative functions. The Director leads Chapter Liaisons, the Member Service Desk, and Administrative Assistant(s), while […] Continue reading "Wild Ones is Hiring a Chapter & Member Services Director"