Crossroads Hosts Lectures on Native Plants

Just as some people are getting truly weary of snow, two local organizations have scheduled lectures at Crossroads at Big Creek that will bring native plants and color back into our lives.

Wild Ones of the Door Peninsula, a group dedicated to native plants and natural landscapes, has invited Karen Newbern to present the program “Birdscaping with Native Plants” on Feb. 19, 7 pm. Newbern will illustrate how attracting birds involves more than filling a couple of bird feeders or adding a bird bath. The lecture will show the benefits of native plantings for birds and discuss the trees, shrubs and perennials that will benefit the birds.

On Feb. 20 at 7 pm, the Master Gardeners of Door County will host “Wild Orchids of Door County: A Tribute to Honor Roy Lukes and Spring in Door County” with Charlotte Lukes. She will show stunning images of the exquisite orchids that manage to survive and thrive in the more hostile growing conditions of Door County. For years, Charlotte and her late husband Roy searched for, located and documented the rare plants of the Door County and then used their photographs to inspire others to protect this special peninsula.

The Feb. 19 & 20 programs are free and open to the public and will be held in the Collins Learning Center.

Crossroads’ Ski for Free program has not operated as much as they hoped this winter, but they haven’t given up. The program will resume as conditions permit. Check crossroadsatbigcreek.org for current conditions and cancellations.

Crossroads at Big Creek is located at 2041 Michigan Street and the Collins Learning Center is open 2-4 pm daily and during scheduled events. Trails and restrooms are always open.