Chapters in Virginia

Join us at Chirp, a specialty bird shop in a historic Ashland storefront built around 1858 — the same year Ashland became a town. Owners Brad and Lorie Lower worked to transform the yard of their adjoining home into a sanctuary for native birds and pollinators by planting native species, providing water sources, and offering shelter. They have successfully brought a sense of balance to the yard and are eager to show others how easy it is to support local wildlife using native plants.

They will be joined by Mickey Albornoz, who leads Chirp's monthly bird walks. Mickey will talk about the birds found locally in the Ashland/Hanover area, what to look and listen for, and how planting native species helps support them. He'll also cover practical tips for attracting more birds to your own yard.

Whether you're a seasoned birder or just winging it, come spend the morning exploring how native gardening and birdwatching go hand in hand.

This event is open to the public as well as to chapter members. Because it is a private tour, we request that you register in advance, and registration is limited to 30 people. 

Join the LBA SEED Group and NOVA Wild Ones as we explore the Maryland bank of the Potomac River.

- HIke the C&O Canal bike trail and adjacent hiking trails.

- Hunt for paw paws (Park Service rules permit the public to gather up to two paw paw fruits.)

- View the C&O canal's Lock 6 and Lockhouse (from the outside),

- Observe various river features, such as the rubble dam, the kayak slalom course, and Little Falls.  Maybe see some kayakers in action!

The hike is about a 3-mile loop.  The bike trail is generally flat, but the dirt trails can get muddy if wet. so hiking boots or reliable trail shoes are suggested.  Also consider wearing long pants if the weather isn't too hot.

Saturday September 5th  

Meet at 10:00 am at Clara Barton Parkway's Lock 6 Parking Lot (parking is limited);  

Or at 9:00 am outside Barcroft Plaza Glory Days to carpool (please indicate when you sign up if you would are available to drive and how many passengers you can take).

Afterwards, we hope you can you can join us at Glory Days where we'll be meeting to raise a glass together. 

Questions?  Contact Bill Baumeister -- (C): 571-340-7999.

Chapter President Sharon Burnham will  guide us through collecting seeds from our native plant gardens and how to do so ethically from wild areas. All in anticipation of our native seed swap in November! She'll also cover fall garden care to take the best care of your native plant garden and wildlife.

Wild Ones is having its first Plant Swap & Shop! Bring labeled native plants to trade. Hang out and talk native plants. No plants to swap? Ninebark Nursery and Root 11 Native Nursery will have plants available for purchase. 

Please join us for our first meeting as a chartered chapter.  We'll discuss our exciting, upcoming programming and opportunities for engagement. Members and non-members are welcome to attend!  Social time begins at 11:30 and meeting follows at 12:00.