Events

Events Archive: 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Upcoming Events

January 2026

Jan
13

WOWC January Member Meeting - with Speaker Bob Hauser "My Journey to Sustainable Lanscaping & Lessons Learned Along the Way""

This event has ended
Tuesday, January 13th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Environmental Interpretive Center at University of Michigan Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48128 Map

Public Welcome Free Event Chapter Meeting Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Join us as we kick off 2026 with presentation on how an average homeowner and gardener  grew to understand the importance of creating a more sustainanble landscape and all the mistakes he made along the way! If you are new to native plants and sustainable landscapes this will be a great opportunity to ask questions or share your own lessons learned.

Bob Hauser have been a Wild Ones member since 2010, and is currently the President of the Wild Ones Wayne County, MI chapter.

Jan
21

Free National Webinar: "Intergenerational Care for Land and Community: A Conversation with Robin Wall Kimmerer and Esther Bonney"

Hosted by Wild Ones National
This event has ended
Wednesday, January 21st, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Recording Available Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

In this special collaboration, Robin Wall Kimmerer, author, botanist, and founder of Plant Baby Plant, joins youth leader and Nurture Natives founder Esther Bonney for an intergenerational conversation about belonging, reciprocity, and native plant action. 

Together, they will explore questions such as:

How do we create opportunities for young people to have a voice and feel empowered, even when they are not homeowners or decision makers?What kinds of relationships and mentorships help people stay engaged in native plant work over decades?Why do stories, shared practices, and community invitations matter just as much as plant lists?

Robin and Esther will reflect on what invites people into this work, what keeps them here, and what elders and youth have to teach each other.

Read More

Jan
21

WOWC Seeds to Community Monthly Planning Members Only

This event has ended
Wednesday, January 21st, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This January meeting will include discussion on:

Winter Sowing Workshop Planning and Logistics

Seed Donations

Seed Data Updates

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Read More

Jan
24

Winter Sowing Workshop @ the EIC

This event has ended
Saturday, January 24th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Environmental Interpretive Center at University of Michigan Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48128 Map

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Registration Required Free Event Hands-On/How-To Workshop Seed/Plant Share Seed Handling Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Winter sowing involves creating a miniature greenhouse for your seeds to grow in. In this workshop you will learn how to use milk jugs or clear plastic jugs to sow seeds to be placed outside for the remainder of winter until they germinate and grow. It is is relatively low-cost and for that cost, is incredibly effective at germinating native plant seeds.

All seeds, soil, and materials will be provided. There is no cost to attend this event! However, we encourage you to consider a donation to support the continuation of the program.

This event consists of two sessions

9:00AM - 10:30AM

10:45AM - 12:15PM

This is a great opportunity create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. Hope to see you there!

Due to space and material limitations please find the registration link below. 

If you are interested in volunteering, please mark it in your event registration. 

Read More

February 2026

Feb
7

Shiver on the River 2026

This event has ended
Saturday, February 7th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Belle Isle Nature Center

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Free Event Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Shiver on the River 2026 returns to Belle Isle on Feb. 7!

Join the Belle Isle Nature Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Shiver on the River 2026, a free, family-friendly winter celebration on Belle Isle.

Throughout the island, you'll be able to enjoy hands-on activities for all ages focused on nature, learning and winter fun, in partnership with local community organizations.

At the Belle Isle Nature Center enjoy:
• Ice carving demonstrations
• Winter hiking
• Themed crafts
• Education stations
• Hot cocoa
• and more!

Shiver on the River is hosted with the Belle Isle Conservancy, Friends of the Detroit River and the Detroit Historical Society.

Read More

Feb
14

Winter Sowing Workshop @ the Henry Ford Centennial Library

This event has ended
Saturday, February 14th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Henry Ford Centennial Library

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Registration Required Free Event Seed/Plant Share Seed Handling Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Winter sowing involves creating a miniature greenhouse for your seeds to grow in. In this workshop you will learn how to use milk jugs or clear plastic jugs to sow seeds to be placed outside for the remainder of winter until they germinate and grow. It is is relatively low-cost and for that cost, is incredibly effective at germinating native plant seeds.

All seeds, soil, and materials will be provided. There is no cost to attend this event! However, we encourage you to consider a donation to support the continuation of the Wild Ones Wayne County Seeds to Community program.

This is a great opportunity create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. Hope to see you there!

Due to space and material limitations please find the registration link below. 

If you are interested in volunteering, please mark it in your event registration. 

Read More

Feb
18

Free National Webinar: From Wasteland to Wonder with Basil Camu

Hosted by Wild Ones National
This event has ended
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Recording Available Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

Our upcoming webinar with Basil Camu explores practical, evidence based ways to heal suburban and urban landscapes by working with trees, soil, and natural systems, drawing on real world practices from Leaf & Limb and community centered models for restoring life where we live, work, and play.!  

Read More

March 2026

Mar
10

Kelly Konieczki - Community Science: Why is it Important and How You & Your Kids Can Contribute

This event has ended
Tuesday, March 10th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Environmental Interpretive Center at University of Michigan Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48128 Map
Live Stream Available

Public Welcome Family-Friendly Recording Available Free Event Chapter Meeting Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Take Action with Community Science!

Ever wondered how YOU can contribute to real scientific research? No matter what topic you're interested in, you can turn your curiosity into action with Community Science!

In this presentation, you’ll learn about the importance of this growing movement and how you can start building your knowledge and expertise, all while contributing to local and global projects–anytime and anywhere! 

-Kelly 

Mar
18

Free National Webinar: Rethinking Horticulture with Real Ecology presented by Joey Santore

Hosted by Wild Ones National
This event has ended
Wednesday, March 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Recording Available Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

Join Joey Santore, creator of Crime Pays But Botany Doesn’t, for a candid Wild Ones National Webinar examining how inherited garden aesthetics shape native plant landscapes. Drawing on field experience and real ecology, Joey challenges tidy design norms and explores why dense, irregular plant communities are often the most resilient and ecologically sound.

Read More

Mar
18

WOWC Seeds to Community March Planning Members Only

This event has ended
Wednesday, March 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This March meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

March 21st Seed Swap Planning

May 3rd Up-Potting Event Planning

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Mar
21

Pollinator & Plant Seed Exchange

This event has ended
Saturday, March 21st, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
MSU Detroit Partnership for Learning and Innovation (DPFLI)

Public Welcome Family-Friendly Free Event Seed/Plant Share Free Public Parking

This free community event is focused on creating a community of Natives & Nourishments.

Don't have seeds to share? Come get some!
Have Extra Seeds? Share with the Community!

There will be hands-on planting experiences with both gardening and native plant experts on site. 

What to bring:
- Washed, plastic jugs
- Paper Grocery Bag(s)

Come ready to learn and make connections with your community of people and plants.

April 2026

Apr
11

Belle Isle Nature Center Greenfest & Wayne County Wild Ones

This event has ended
to (Eastern Time)
Belle Isle Nature Center, 176 Lakeside Dr, Detroit, MI, 48207 Map

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Free Event Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Wayne County Wild Ones will have a table at Greenfest 2026!

Greenfest is a free, family-friendly event that explores how simple actions can support a healthier environment for people, animals and nature. Go green with two days of community science initiatives, connection with local conservation experts, creative exploration and community connection.

Admission is free! So stop by to say Hello and help us celebrate sustainability!

Read More

Apr
22

WOWC Seeds to Community April Planning Members Only

This event has ended
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This April meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

March 21st Seed Swap Recap

May 3rd Up-Potting Event Planning

Seed Collection Locations & Dates

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Apr
25

Community Science with Kelly Konieczki - Using iNaturalist to record the Natural World Around Us

This event has ended
Saturday, April 25th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Environmental Interpretive Center at University of Michigan Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48128 Map

Public Welcome Family-Friendly Hands-On/How-To Workshop Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Kelly Konieczki and Wayne County Wild Ones is inviting the public to join in a workshop to participate in the 2026 City Nature Challenge! The City Nature Challenge is a global activity organized by the Community Science teams at the California Academy of Sciences and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM). This event is designed to get people out in nature, learning about and cataloging all they see in iNaturalist. 

Note: If you haven’t already, please create an iNaturalist account before the event by signing up here

Apr
28

"Free National Webinar: What Is Wild and Why It Matters" presented by Rick Darke

Hosted by Wild Ones National
This event has ended
Tuesday, April 28th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Limited Access Recording Registration Required Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

Join award-winning author, photographer, and educator Rick Darke for What Is Wild and Why It Matters, a free national webinar on Tuesday, April 28th at 10 am CT. Discover how inviting a bit of authentic wildness can create a vibrant landscape that sustains you and local biodiversity. This national event is presented in collaboration between Wild Ones and Homegrown National Park.

Read More

May 2026

May
3

Up-potting Workshop and Seedling Swap

This event has ended
Sunday, May 3rd, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Environmental Interpretive Center at University of Michigan Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48128 Map

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Registration Required Free Event Seed/Plant Share Seed Handling Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) Seeds to Community is happy to host our 2nd Annual Up-Potting Workshop at the EIC!

This event is an opportunity to come together and share the abundance seedlings from winter sowing. Bring your containers from winter sowing to up-pot seedlings and swap species with fellow community members! There will be additional stratified seeds from WOWC that will be ready to plant as well as seeds not requiring cold stratification. We would love for you to go home with the plants you would like for your space! 

For those that are more ambitious or looking to make an even bigger impact, we are planning to plant seeds in trays to grow additional plants to be used by WOWC for upcoming planting projects, and we could use your help.

This is a free event and potting soil and containers will be provided. Register using the “Register” button below. While there is no cost to register, donations are suggested to cover cost of materials and support the program for the future!

If you are interested in volunteering at this event, please fill out a short volunteer interest form.

Read More

May
12

WOWC May Member Meeting with Presentation: The Extraordinary Caterpillar Members Only

This event has ended
Tuesday, May 12th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Family-Friendly Free Event Chapter Meeting

Over 98% of the living world on Earth is smaller than a bee. Yet humans view the planet as a world centered around themselves. Landscapes are deconstructed to suit human needs, often with little regard for the natural systems that sustain the food web. The Extraordinary Caterpillar follows the scientists and community activists with this peek into the dazzling world of nature’s tiniest superheroes.

This is a movie about how we can grow the right plants in our yard to support a healthy ecosystem, with a focus on caterpillars and their importance in the food web. There is also amazing close-up photography in this presentation!   

May
16

Crosswinds Marsh Nature Fest

This event has ended
Saturday, May 16th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Crosswinds Marsh

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Free Event

Wayne County Wild Ones will be at Crosswinds Marsh Nature Fest!

This free event will feature live animals, nature activities, fishing, a nature scavenger hunt, canoeing, caricaturists, inflatables Bounce House, games, and more. Bait and a limited number of fishing poles are provided. Parents/chaperones must accompany children at all times during the event.

No registration is required for Nature Fest which is geared to all ages!

For more information, please call (734) 261-1990.

If you'd like to help out at the WOWC Table please complete the Volunteer Registration.

Read More

May
18

WOWC Programs Planning - May Members Only

This event has ended
Monday, May 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the third Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

May
20

WOWC Seeds to Community May Planning Members Only

This event has ended
Wednesday, May 20th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This May meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

May 3rd Up-Potting Event Recap

Seed Collection Events Planning

Plant Swap Timing

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

June 2026

Jun
1

WOWC Programs Planning - June Members Only

This event has ended
Monday, June 1st, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

AAt Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Jun
6

Canton's National Trials & River Day

This event has ended
Saturday, June 6th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Lower Rouge Trailhead, S Canton Center Rd, MI, 48188 Map

Public Welcome Family-Friendly Free Event

Wayne County Wild Ones will be at the Canton National Trails / River Day!

Kayaking the Rouge River is the highlight of the day.  

"This special event was designed to showcase the incredible Lower Rouge Trail system and give participants the chance to experience the beauty of outdoor recreation on the water right here in Canton,” -Sarah Pushies, Canton Health & Wellness Recreation Specialist

This event will also feature nature walks, birdhouse building, educational booths, and more. For additional information, please visit www.cantonfun.org or call 734/394-5460. 

If you'd like to help out at the WOWC Table please complete the Volunteer Registration.

Read More

Jun
7

Driving Tour of Metro Detroit Pocket Forests

This event has ended
Sunday, June 7th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Free Event Public Garden Tour

Join the TreeTown Urban Forest Team at PocketForests.org for a Driving Tour of Pocket Forests in the Detroit Metro Area.  

Carpool to the identified locations to visit the projects.  A representative of each forest will be on hand to introduce their project and answer questions. Visit as many of the locations as your schedule allows. 

Register to receive more detailed info closer to the date.

Read More

Jun
16

Driving Tour of Ann Arbor and Saline Pocket Forests

Tuesday, June 16th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Free Event Public Garden Tour

Join the TreeTown Urban Forest Team at PocketForests.org for a Driving Tour of Pocket Forests in the Ann Arbor - Saline area.  

Carpool to the identified locations to visit the projects.  A representative of each forest will be on hand to introduce their project and answer questions. Visit as many of the locations as your schedule allows. 

Register to receive more detailed info closer to the date.

Register Read More

Jun
17

WOWC Seeds to Community June Planning Members Only

Wednesday, June 17th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This June meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Collection Planning

Seed Collection Notices

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Jun
18

MSU Extension Pollinator Conference - Flint

Thursday, June 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Crossroads Village, 6140 N Bray Rd, Flint, MI, 48505 Map

Paid Event Public Welcome

Join Michigan State University Extension (MSU Extension) for a new and exciting one-day event about wild bees that pollinate vegetables, fruits, and wildflowers. This event includes 3 morning lectures from entomologists with expertise in wild bees and an afternoon of interactive breakout sessions on wild bee identification, photography, and habitat design. If you are looking for ideas to enhance habitat that supports pollinators, come join us at this event! Attendees will learn about Michigan wild pollinators and actions to support them in residential and community garden spaces.

Registration fee: $65

Registration includes lunch, snacks, and admission to Crossroads Village (closes at 5 p.m.).

Registration deadline: June 4 or when event reaches capacity.

Read More

Jun
21

Native Plant Sale with Michiganense Natives at the Belle Isle Nature Center

Sunday, June 21st, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Belle Isle Nature Center, 176 Lakeside Dr, Detroit, MI, 48207 Map

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Seed/Plant Sale Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains

It's time for our annual Native Plant Sale!

We are again partnering with our friends at Michiganense Natives to provide you an opportunity to purchase native plants for your garden at the Belle Isle Nature Center. If you're not sure what to buy or how to get started, we'll be here to help and give recommendations. Come see us! 

A portion of sales will benefit WOWC and our efforts to continue providing native plant resources and programming to our local residents and communities.

Learn more about the Belle Isle Nature Center here.

While admission to the Belle Isle Nature Center is free, a Recreation Passport is required to enter Belle Isle Park. Free, accessible parking is available directly in front of the Nature Center once on the island.

We are looking for member volunteers to help host the sale. Please register to volunteer if you are able!

Jun
28

Member-to-Member Yard Tours: Two Fantastic Yards in Livonia - Public Welcome!

Sunday, June 28th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Registration Required Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature two fantastic yards in Livonia.

The exact locations will be communicated to all members and registered visitors prior to the visit to protect the privacy of our kind members offering their space for tours. We kindly ask that you register to receive this information and to give us an idea of how many attendees to expect. Hope to see you there!
 

Yard One:  Derek's Yard (1:00pm)

What began as a search for better vegetable harvests led to a passion for native plants, pollinator conservation, and community engagement. Tour a collection of evolving gardens created through experimentation, learning, and a commitment to sharing native plants and gardening knowledge with others.

Read More About Derek's Yard

Yard Two:  Patrick's Yard (2:00pm)

What happens when a homeowner replaces every square foot of lawn with native plants? Visit Patrick's grass-free landscape to see a thriving habitat filled with pollinators, learn about his journey from traditional lawn care to native gardening, and discover what inspired him to give up his lawnmower for good.

Read More About Patrick's Yard

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

Register Read More

July 2026

Jul
6

WOWC Programs Planning - July Members Only

Monday, July 6th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Jul
8

Member-to-Member EVENING Yard Tour: A Delightful Yard in Dearborn Heights - Public Welcome!

Wednesday, July 8th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Registration Required Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This EVENING event will feature a Delightful yard in Dearborn Heights

The address for each yard will be communicated to both members and non-members who Register using the register button below.  

 Lisa's Yard (7:00pm)

What starts with a few purple coneflowers and a curious butterfly sighting?  Find out by exploring this evolving suburban garden, where milkweed sparked a decade-long journey into native plants, blending wildlife-friendly additions with cherished legacy favorites. 

Read More About Lisa's Yard

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

Register Read More

Jul
12

Member-to-Member Yard Tours: Two Lovable Yards in Livonia - Public Welcome!

Sunday, July 12th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Registration Required Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature two yards in Livonia.

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

The exact locations will be communicated to all members and registered visitors prior to the visit to protect the privacy of our kind members offering their space for tours. We kindly ask that you register to receive this information and to give us an idea of how many attendees to expect. Hope to see you there!

Register Read More

Jul
15

WOWC Seeds to Community July Planning Members Only

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This July meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Collection Planning

Seed Collection Notices

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Jul
18

Member-to-Member Yard Tour: The Remarkable Garden at the MSU Office in Romulus AND a Wonderful Butterfly Garden in Westland - Public Welcome!

Saturday, July 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Public Restroom Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature two venues:
The Remarkable Garden at the MSU Extension Office in Romulus, AND
 A Wonderful Butterfly Garden in Westland.

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

The exact locations will be communicated to all members and registered visitors prior to the visit to protect the privacy of our kind members offering their space for tours. We kindly ask that you register to receive this information and to give us an idea of how many attendees to expect. Hope to see you there!

Register Read More

Jul
25

Bugtopia - Wayne County Parks

Saturday, July 25th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Nankin Mills Interpretive Center, 33175 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland, MI, 48185 Map

Public Welcome Family-Friendly Free Event

Wayne County Wild Ones will be at the Bugtopia!

Details Coming Soon!

Read More

Jul
26

Member-to-Member Yard Tours: Two Dazzling yards in Detroit! Members Only

Sunday, July 26th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Members Only Registration Required Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature two Dazzling in Detroit.

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

The location for each visit will be communicated to all who register prior to the visit.

Register Read More

August 2026

Aug
3

WOWC Programs Planning - August Members Only

Monday, August 3rd, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Aug
5

Member-to-Member EVENING Yard Tour: A Naturally Beautiful Yard in New Boston - Public Welcome!

Wednesday, August 5th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Registration Required Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This EVENING event will feature a Naturally Beautiful Yard in New Boston.

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

The exact location will be communicated to all members and registered visitors prior to the visit to protect the privacy of our kind member offering their space for a tour. We kindly ask that you register to receive this information and to give us an idea of how many attendees to expect. Hope to see you there!

Register Read More

Aug
9

Member-to-Member Yard Tour: A Phenomenal yard in Plymouth AND Plymouth Pollinator Gardens - Public Welcome!

Sunday, August 9th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature a Phenomenal yard in Plymouth AND a curated tour of some of the Plymouth Pollinator Gardens.

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

The exact locations will be communicated to all members and registered visitors prior to the visit to protect the privacy of our kind members offering their space for tours. We kindly ask that you register to receive this information and to give us an idea of how many attendees to expect. Hope to see you there!

Register Read More

Aug
19

WOWC Seeds to Community August Planning Members Only

Wednesday, August 19th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This August meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Collection Planning

Seed Cleaning & Storage Workshop Planning

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Aug
22

Field Trip and Inter-Chapter Social/Mingle at Micro Forest Members Only

Hosted by Wild Ones North Oakland Chapter and Wayne County Michigan Chapter
Saturday, August 22nd, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Members Only Family-Friendly Registration Required Chapter Social Public Garden Tour Home/Private Garden Tour Nature Walk/Hike Free Public Parking

It's time for a Field Trip!

One of our Wild Ones Member  has a Micro Forest Project in Warren that looks amazing!

So, as an inter-chapter combined effort, the North Oakland Chapter and the Wayne County Chapter have arranged for an exclusive tour!

Not only will we get a chance to walk the forest and talk with the creator, after the forest tour we will head over to a nearby park for a Picnic/Pot-luck where we can also socialize and mingle with our fellow Native Plant Lovers.

Here is the schedule for the day:

10:45-11:00am Meet at Warren Micro Forest (Free parking on nearby streets)
11:00am Tour Start at Warren Micro Forest
11:45am Commute to nearby Park
12:00pm Picnic-Potluck Lunch
1:30pm  (Optional) Commute to Yard Tour in Mt Clemens
2:00pm  (Optional) Yard Tour of River-bank Native Garden (Private Residence)
2:45pm Safe Travels Home

We will be setting up Car Pooling from various locations to make the trek to the East Side.

The locations for the Picnic and the Optional Yard Tour will be communicated to all who Register. Please use the sign-up form or click the Register link below.

Click the Read More button for more information on the Warren Micro Forest.

Read More

Aug
23

Member-to-Member Yard Tour: A Stunning yard in Southgate - Public Welcome!

Sunday, August 23rd, 2026
to (Eastern Time)

Public Welcome Free Event Home/Private Garden Tour Free Public Parking

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature a Stunning yard in Southgate.

The exact location will be communicated to all members and registered visitors prior to the visit to protect the privacy of our kind member offering their space for tours. We kindly ask that you register to receive this information and to give us an idea of how many attendees to expect. Hope to see you there!

Katie's Yard (1:00pm)

From a university interest in environmental studies to transforming a flood-prone backyard, this gardener has embraced native plants as both a practical solution and a source of wonder. Discover wet prairie blooms, a growing woodland, a wildlife pond, and lessons learned through experimentation.

Read More about Katie's Yard

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

Register Read More

September 2026

Sep
7

WOWC Programs Planning - September Members Only

Monday, September 7th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Sep
9

WOWC Seeds to Community September Planning Members Only

Wednesday, September 9th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This September meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Collection Planning

Seed Cleaning & Storage Workshop Planning

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Sep
16

Free National Webinar- September 2026

Hosted by Wild Ones National
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Recording Available Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

Details coming soon! 

October 2026

Oct
5

WOWC Programs Planning - October Members Only

Monday, October 5th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Oct
14

WOWC Seeds to Community October Planning Members Only

Wednesday, October 14th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This October meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Cleaning & Storage Workshop Planning

Winter Sowing Workshop Dates & Locations

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Oct
17

Stewardship Workday - Stewardship Saturday at the Environmental Interpretive Center

Saturday, October 17th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Environmental Interpretive Center at University of Michigan Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI, 48128 Map

Volunteers Needed Public Welcome Family-Friendly Invasive Species Removal Habitat Installation/Maintenance Public Restroom Free Public Parking Lots of Physical Activity Drinking Fountains

Join WOWC for this Stewardship Saturday volunteer workday event to preserve the health of the Environmental Study Area at U of M-Dearborn!

This year-round, ongoing effort helps to improve and sustain the ecological health of the habitats in the Environmental Study Area. That includes addressing the many threats posed by invasive plants and re-establishing native plant life.

 Children must be at least 10 years of age to participate.

All equipment for removing invasive plants will be provided by the Center. But if you can bring a sturdy pair of long-handled branch loppers, please do.  Also, please bring your own drinking water and work gloves for use in the field.

This activity involves moderate physical activity in off trail natural habitat areas. Wear suitable work clothes that can be scraped and poked by twigs and/or the occasional thorny plant, or have contact with sticky bur seeds. A good pair of sturdy work shoes/boots is also a must. No sandals, please.

Read about this and other Volunteer Opportunities at the Environmental Study Area 

The folks at the U of M-D EIC have been so generous to WOWC, this is a opportunity for us to give back.  Registration suggested to help us plan with the EIC on the activity, but not required. 

Register Read More

Oct
21

Free National Webinar- October 2026

Hosted by Wild Ones National
Wednesday, October 21st, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Recording Available Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

Details coming soon! 

November 2026

Nov
2

WOWC Programs Planning - November Members Only

Monday, November 2nd, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Nov
11

WOWC Seeds to Community November Planning Members Only

Wednesday, November 11th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This November meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Cleaning & Storage Workshop Planning

Winter Sowing Workshops Planning

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.

Nov
18

Free National Webinar- November 2026

Hosted by Wild Ones National
Wednesday, November 18th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Public Welcome Recording Available Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation

Details coming soon! 

December 2026

Dec
7

WOWC Programs Planning - December Members Only

Monday, December 7th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

At Wild Ones Wayne County (WOWC) we don't dream about ‘Connecting people and native plants for a healthy planet’, we actively DO STUFF!   And that “doing” is where WOWC Programs comes in.  It takes People and Planning to Make Stuff Happen. Discussions include:

-Bi-monthly chapter meetings with a presenter or speaker
-Plant Sales
-Tabling Events
-Member-to-Member yard tours
-Stewardship Events
-Seeds to Community Program Events
-Social Events
-Private and Public garden tours

Join us on the first Monday of every month 6:00pm on Zoom where we discuss plans for Events and Activities, as well as Volunteer Opportunities

Members will receive an invite and Zoom link via email prior to the meeting. 

Contact Steve Ray, Programs Chair with questions or ideas.

Read More

Dec
16

WOWC Seeds to Community December Planning Members Only

Wednesday, December 16th, 2026
to (Eastern Time)
Online/Virtual

Volunteers Needed Members Only Limited Access Recording Chapter Meeting

The mission of the WOWC Seeds to Community program is to create connections with people and nature through the process of growing native plants from seed. The program is driven through community engagement in collection, germination and cultivation workshops.

WOWC Seeds to Community events require planning and community engagement. Join each third Wednesday of the month to be a part of the year-round community initiative of growing native plants from seed.

This December meeting will include discussion on:

Seeds Status Update

Seed Cleaning & Storage Workshop Planning

Winter Sowing Workshops Planning

Program Donations

Members will receive invite and Zoom link via email. Reach out to Derek Shaffer or [email protected] with questions.