Chapters in Georgia Native Plant Society
History
Over two decades ago, the Georgia Native Plant Society was founded by people based in metro Atlanta. Since that time, their initiative and message around the importance of native plants to our lives and the ability of individuals to make a difference locally in their protection, stewardship, rescue and propagation, has spread across Georgia and in fact across the USA. Today our members are served in other locations across the state where local groups are providing educational information, restoration opportunities and opportunities to learn more.
Realignment
In November 2019, GNPS adopted new bylaws, which implemented a state-wide governing board to set organizational policy, define its strategic vision, and directly support chapter activities. This new organizational structure paved the way for more chapters to form throughout Georgia.
Join a chapter
There are currently 8 chapters of the Georgia Native Plant Society. As a member of GNPS you too can get to work and join like minded people in your area by aligning yourself with one of our chapters.
For current members, login and update your chapter affiliation through the chapter affiliation form. For new or renewing members, select your chapter affiliation on the membership form.
Form a chapter
Let us know if you are interested in learning more about how to join or start up a local chapter near you in the state of Georgia by using the Contact Us form. Current members can also use the Chapter Interest Form. To learn more about the overall process, view the Chapter Quick Start Guide. For a more in-depth guide to forming and running a chapter, see the Chapter Manual.
News & Events
Downtown Garden Bike Ride
Bike Walk Macon is a non-profit organization leading the movement to make bicycling and walking a safe, healthy, and convenient option for transportation and recreation for everyone in Macon-Bibb County. For more information, visit www.bikewalkmacon.com
Invasion of the Plants that Ate Macon!
Come join the Fringed Campion Chapter and the Bibb County Extension Service to learn more about invasive plants on Oct. 15, 2024 from 6 to 7:30 pm at the Macon-Bibb County Cooperative Extension Office at 715 Oglethorpe St. in Macon. We’ll share which one are most predominant, how to remove them, and why we should even care.
Please register using this link https://ugeorgia.ca1.qualtrics.com/…/SV_et9pdBhJk1h2ALk
Check the event in Facebook for any last minute updates: https://www.facebook.com/events/1998982040567193
Fall Native Plant Sale at Wesleyan Market
The Fringed Campion Chapter Fall Native Plant Sale will be held at the Wesleyan Market (Wesleyan University in Macon, GA) on Oct. 12, 2024 from 9 am to 1 pm.
Please check the Facebook event for any updates: https://www.facebook.com/events/1467869903743082
Panel Presentation on Invasive Plants Draws Large Crowd
On August 20, a large group of native plant enthusiasts gathered at the Carroll County Ag Center to hear a panel presentation on invasive plants. Chapter president Elyse Wheeler kicked off the program with an explanation of what it means for a plant to be described as invasive, and how invasive plants are spread. Chapter vice president Frank Bennett followed with an overview of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, including prevention, mechanical removal, and chemical treatment. Then six West Georgia Chapter members spoke about invasive plants they have encountered during habitat restoration projects, including stilt grass (Carol Hight), privet and non-native wisteria (Dave Chamberlain), Nandina (Beth Chance), English ivy (Amy Rhoads), and Perilla (Jackie Miller). The speakers explained how to identify each plant and what type of management measures to employ for it. Dave Chamberlain demonstrated the use of the “Buckthorn Blaster” device sold by the North American Invasive Species Management Association, which is used to paint herbicide on the cut stump of certain invasive plants to keep them from re-sprouting. Several audience members commented that the tips provided by the speakers would help them in dealing with invasive plants on their own property.
West GA Chapter invasive plant program 8-20-24
Carol Hight & Dave Chamberlain demonstrating the Buckthorn Blaster 8-20-24
October Chapter Meeting: Let’s Talk Dirt!
The Fringed Campion Chapter invites members and friends to attend a chapter meeting on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024 at 6 pm in the Willet Science Center Auditorium on Mercer University’s Macon Campus. Our speaker will be Dr. Paige Tench who will share what she has learned about the fascinating way microbes and plants work together to sustain each other.
Enter the Mercer University Campus from the south side at College St (NOT Stadium Dr), then park near the tennis courts or behind Willet Science Center. Enter Willet Science Center from the front doors (with the glass lobby).
For any updates, please check the Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/816023867359213