Chapters in Pennsylvania

Event Description:

Did you know that the Zebra Swallowtail butterfly relies on a single tree for its entire existence? In a remarkable ecological partnership, the Pawpaw is the exclusive host plant for this species. The caterpillar form depends entirely on Pawpaw leaves for nourishment, even absorbing natural toxins from the tree that protect them from predators throughout their lives. 

Join us in this workshop, where expert Gabrielle Marsden will guide us through the fascinating biology of this bond, explaining why the presence of native Pawpaws is the essential key to the Zebra Swallowtail’s survival in Pennsylvania. To see Gabrielle's work in action before the event, visit her video series at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znMYriSN3Ow&list=PLISKL21_b6P6-6LfN2gGro8xSOaz3-DRe

In this two-part event, we’ll have hands-on conservation learning by planting Pawpaw trees together at Duncansville Memorial Park. After establishing these initial host sites, we will break into smaller groups at 3:00 PM to plant additional groves at nearby locations. By expanding these native habitats, we are directly ensuring that the Zebra Swallowtail has the resources it needs to flourish in our community for generations to come.

Check out where we have planted Pawpaws in Blair county so far and locations of wild pawpaw groves in this ever evolving map in link below

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1MWDTLstCAOrHauRWVuwRsVcpFmUaTOQ&ll=40.42378534411041%2C-78.408726577896&z=13

Get involved: If you have a permitted location within a 1/2 mile of a waterway where a group of Pawpaw trees can be planted please fill out this form below.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHJ4xdIjv0Ct_rmucEkuTzOesA62sUCz3p-xdMjirlsO8ffQ/viewform?usp=header

Join us for a spring flower hike at Raccoon Creek State Park Wildflower Reserve, led by Cindie Wilson.

 The 314-acre tract, originally purchased in 1962 by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, contains one of the most biodiverse and unique stands of wildflowers in Pennsylvania. More than 700 species of plants can be found along the 4.5 miles of trails.

Please register below to attend this walk. 

As you embark on this spring flower hike, bring comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for mud. 

There are public restrooms at the Interpretive Center located at the trailhead. 

Address: 

525 Lincoln Hwy, 482 US-30
Clinton, PA 15026

GPS coordinates: Wildflower Reserve 40.50723, -80.36411

Join us for this great event where we are bringing together local land care professionals, organizations, and community members who are passionate about creating healthier landscapes with engaged communities.

This year’s event expands on last year’s popular “Ask a Landscaper” gathering. We’ll have 6 ecologically knowledgeable professionals on site to answer your questions about native plants, pollinator habitats, sustainable landscaping practices, and how to transform your space into a thriving ecosystem. 

Local organizations including Lawrenceville Corporation/Lawrenceville United, Bloomfield Garfield Corporation, the Audubon Society and other community partners will be present to share resources and ways for you to get involved in your local communities to help improve the health and wellbeing of your local ecosystem. 

These organizations have worked to plant trees, grow food, and advocate for vibrant green spaces alongside their other support system offerings in their respective neighborhoods. 

This year’s list of ecological landscapers:

May Apple - Meg Graham

GaiaScape - Chris Kosin

Earth Offerings - Lexi Williams

Root Cellar Natives - Cindie Wilson

Garfield Farm/Wild Indigo Guild - John Creasy

Three Sister Permaculture - Tamara OBrien

Bring photos, site measurements, sketches, or questions about your space. Our experts will help you think through plant selections, layout ideas, and practical ways to get started or improve your existing garden.

Come connect with fellow plant lovers, learn from local experts, and celebrate Arbor Day with a community dedicated to healthier ecosystems.

-Native Landscaping guidance

-Local Community and advocacy organizations

-Off The Press Burgers Food Truck

-Trace Brewery will be open for coffee, beer and drink menu

-Great conversations and community

Whether you're just starting your native plant journey or looking to expand your garden, this is a wonderful opportunity to gather ideas and inspiration.

Walk along the Appalachian Trail (flat hike) to see spring ephemerals in bloom, led by Wild Ones South Central PA member Lorrie P.   (Rain date is Sunday, April 19 same time).

Enjoy spring blooms at Jenkins Arboretum and shop on opening day of the outdoor nursery.