Events, Volunteer Opportunities,
Continuing Education, & Deadlines
We've gathered some interesting events that naturalists of all ages may enjoy!
Blue text = LMNGBR event | Black text = Public event
Green text = Louisiana Master Naturalist Association event
Green text = Louisiana Master Naturalist Association event
August 17, 2019
Forager Hike
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Poverty Point World Heritage Site, 6859 Highway 577, Pioneer, LA 71266
Get a look at some of the plants which would have been eaten and used by the ancient Native Americans at Poverty Point World Heritage Site. A 1.5 mile ranger-led hike will take visitors through a portion of the earthworks with a focus on useful native plants. This event begins at 9:30 a.m. with a short introductory film, followed by the hike itself.
August 17, 2019
Beginner Birding Workshop
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Tuten Park in Lake Charles
The Gulf Coast Bird Club announces a FREE Beginner Birding Workshop to be held at Tuten Park on Saturday, August 17 from 8 am to noon. This is a family-friendly activity and all are welcome. School-aged children are welcome with an adult participant. Please bring binoculars and a bird field guide if you have them.
August 17 - 18, 2019
LMNGBR Arthropods & Nocturnal Naturalist Workshops
Overnight @Allen Acres
August 22, 2019
The Louisiana Watershed Initiative
6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
@The Backpacker, 7656 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA
Pat Forbes, executive director of the La. Office of Community Development, and a frequent speaker for the Council for Watershed Management, will provide an update on the Watershed Initiative. Created in May of 2018 by an executive order by Gov. John Bel Edwards, the Council is responsible for directing the development and implementation of a statewide, watershed-based flood plain management program. This is a BR Sierra Club general membership meeting, but the public is welcome to attend.
August 24, 2019
Insect Day at the Museum
11:00 a.m.
@Lafayette Science Museum, 433 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501
August 27, 2019
LSU Science Café: Coastal Voices - Stories of Resiliency
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Coastal Louisiana is one of the most dynamic places in the country. Generations who have lived there have adapted to the changing landscape. Join LSU Associate Professor of Religious Studies and History Michael Pasquier to learn about the oral history project, Coastal Voices, he and his students have embarked upon to capture the stories of Louisiana resilience. For more about their project, go to coastalvoices.lsu.edu. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
August 27, 2019
History of Medicinal Plants
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
@Ascension Parish Library, 708 S Irma Blvd, Gonzales, LA 70737
There is evidence in the fossil records that humans have been utilizing plants for medicinal purposes as far back as 60,000 years ago. In Louisiana, historical accounts of medicinal herbs used by locals such as the Cajuns, African-Americans, Native-Americans, and Creoles, have been recorded since the 1800’s. Since the 1990’s, there has been a resurgence of interest in naturally derived medicines. Dr. Heather Kirk-Ballard, LSU Professor of Consumer Horticulture, will explore this fascinating subject. To register, call the Gonzales location at (225) 647-3955.
August 30, 2019
Spider Walk with Dr. Aimée Thomas
7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
@Northlake Nature Center, 23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, LA 70448
Meet and greet our awesome family of spiders at the NNC. The best visual meet and greet is at night when they are busy spinning their webs and your flashlight captures their works of art! Learn about spiders and their habitat from an expert in the field who has special interest in our 8 legged friends! Limited space available. Free for Members, Non-members $5. To register, call 985-626-1238 or email Rue@northlakenature.org.
September 9, 2019
OLLI Fall Birding Class
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
@White Oak Estate and Gardens, 17660 George O'Neal Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70817
Jane Patterson teaches this 4-week class that is designed for the beginning bird watcher. For adults 50+. You will go on bird walks and learn basic information about birdwatching, binoculars and field guides, tips and tricks for identifying birds by sight and sound, where and how to use your new birding skills. Register at OLLI.
September 9, 2019
Fall Birding Basics
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. plus morning bird walk sessions
@Hilltop Arboretum, 11855 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Jane Patterson teaches this 4-week class that is designed for the beginning bird watcher. You will go on bird walks and learn basic information about birdwatching, binoculars and field guides, tips and tricks for identifying birds by sight and sound, where and how to use your new birding skills. Register online $50.
September 11, 2019
PARD Fall Birding Class
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
@Ponchatoula Area Recreation District gym, 19030 Ponchatoula Parks Dr., Ponchatoula, LA 70454
Jane Patterson teaches this 4-week class that is designed for the beginning bird watcher. You will go on bird walks and learn basic information about birdwatching, binoculars and field guides, tips and tricks for identifying birds by sight and sound, where and how to use your new birding skills. Register online $23.
September 13, 2019
Summer's End Night Hike and Campfire
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
@BREC's Zachary Community Park, 20055 Old Scenic Highway, Zachary, LA 70791
A great way to say goodbye to summer and kick-off the school year. The program will include a night hike learning about local ecology and nocturnal animals and will include activities and games. End the night around a campfire roasting marshmallows and learning local folk lore. Come enjoy this great way to get the family out in nature as the summer heat subsides. Children must be accompanied by an adult and able to complete a 2.5 mile hike in the dark without a light.
September 14, 2019
LDWF Wildlife Rehabilitation Training
8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
@Acadian Cultural Center, 501 Fisher Rd., Lafayette, LA 70508
Learn the basic skills needed to rehabilitate injured or orphaned wildlife so they can be successfully returned to the wild. This is the only wildlife rehab course recognized by LDWF. Registration opens August 1 and closes September 1. More information
September 14, 2019
Snakes of Louisiana with Fred Mattingly
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Northlake Nature Center, 23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, LA 70448
Fred Mattingly, a local community snake enthusiast at heart, will share his wealth of knowledge and introduce you to Louisiana’s “cool” native snakes. Then, explore the many hidden treasures at the Northlake Nature Center as you hike the trails as you learn about the importance of preserving our environment for our native wildlife species to survive. Free for Members, Non-members $5. To register, call 985-626-1238 or email Rue@northlakenature.org.
September 15, 2019
LMNGBR Forest Ecology Workshop
September 21, 2019
LMNGBR Reptiles & Amphibians Workshop
September 21, 2019
Audubon at Oakley Plantation
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
@Audubon State Historic-Site, 11788 La Highway 965, Saint Francisville, LA 70775
Celebrate the time of John James Audubon at Oakley Plantation in 1821. Guests speakers, a birding talk, along with hands on activities are just some of the happenings on this day. Any age will find something of interest!
September 21, 2019
Collecting Seed from Louisiana Native Plants
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Garden Study Center, New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park
Marc Pastorek will discuss collecting and storing seed and some methods of propagating native wildflowers and grasses of Louisiana. He will touch on the requirements of specific species and will focus on those species that are hardest to grow. Feel free to bring questions about plants you may be interested in growing in your garden. Marc Pastorek is an environmentalist with a deep interest in natural systems and their restoration and management. He is co-founder of Pastorek Habitats, a landscape design and consulting firm that specializes in restoring native grassland habitat. Marc is a contributor to the new book Southeastern Grasslands: Biodiversity, Ecology and Management, University of Alabama press. He and his wife Candi operate their business as partners and live and garden in Covington, Louisiana.
September 21, 2019
Haynesville Celebration of Butterflies
@Claiborne Parish Fair Complex, 1563 Fairgrounds Dr, Haynesville LA 71038
Festival highlights include: Educational Seminars, Parade, Memorial Butterfly Conservatory, Sale of Butterfly Plants, Butterfly Books, and T-Shirts Craft & Food Vendors, Take-home Butterfly Towers, Art & Photography Contest, Exhibits, Childrens’ Activities, 5K/1K run/walk, Music. More information in the festival brochure
September 24, 2019
Discover Nature: The Magic of Hummingbirds
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Even people who are not otherwise enamored of birds adore hummingbirds. And how can you not? They are tiny flying jewels that grace our gardens with their presence and always make us smile. But they are also incredibly resilient and travel hundreds of miles each year on their migratory journeys. Come learn about the life history of these fascinating birds and also learn what you can do to attract them to your yard year round! This presentation is by Jane Patterson, an LMNGBR member and our birding workshop instructor. She is also the current President of Baton Rouge Audubon Society, as well as the Education chair. This "Discover Nature Series" presentation is in partnership with Hilltop Arboretum, CANPS and LMNGBR. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for non-members.
September 24, 2019
LSU Science Café: Live Oaks, Arches and Terracotta
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Join LSU Professor of Architecture Michael Desmond as he presents the story of LSU’s architectural past and future. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
September 26, 2019
Landscaping for Birds and Other Wildlife
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
@Bluebonnet Library
The East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners are hosting presentations in the libraries. This month's presentation is in two parts: Spicing Up Your Garden With Fall Color and Landscaping for Birds and Other Wildlife.
September 27 - 28, 2019
Butterfly Blast
@Allen Acres, Pitkin, LA
Details TBA
September 28, 2019
Folsom Fall Garden Festival
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
@Midway Church Park, Highway 25 N, Folsom, LA
Talk with Louisiana growers and enjoy the fall plant sale, which includes native plants. There will be children's activities, concessions and demonstrations too.
September 29, 2019
LMNGBR Birds Workshop
September 29, 2019
Top 25 Native Plants: PlantFest Teaser
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
The 2019 pre-sale PlantFest Teaser will feature Brian Sean Early, who will talk about his “Top 25 Native Plants” that are underutilized in urban gardens. All participants will receive a copy of his must have native plant reference, Louisiana Native Plant Resource Guide for Gardeners and Landscapers. Brian Sean Early works for LDWF as a botanist for the Wildlife Diversity Program where he is part of a team studying and working to preserve Louisiana’s coastal prairie remnants. Brian Sean also serves as a botanist for the Kitsatchie National Forest and maintains the native plant garden at LDWF headquarters. To put the “tease” in this annual PlantFest! “pre-quel”, one of each of the plants presented will be eligible for purchase by a drawing process. After his program, Brian will lead a walk about through the plant sale area that will already be set up for PlantFest! 2019 the following weekend (Oct 5th and Oct 6th). Hilltop Members: $10.00, Non-Members: $15.00. More information and online tickets.
October 3 - 5, 2019
Bayou Bonafouca Marsh Restoration
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge in Lacombe, LA
The Bayou Bonfouca Marsh Restoration event is being hosted by the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL), Chevron, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Volunteers are needed to prepare and plant native marsh grass. This project will assist in stabilizing a marsh creation project and will help establish native vegetation that will create wildlife habitat. More information and registration. Additional dates: October 17 - 19.
October 5 - 6, 2019
36th Annual PlantFest!
Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. & Sun. Noon - 4:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Brace yourself for a botanical “all you can tweet” plant feast … trees, shrubs, perennials, vines, ferns (best selection in BR), fruits, gingers, camellias, incredible edibles, ornamental grasses, and more that run the gamut from native and traditional to eclectic and electric newcomers. To spice up the mix, plants are imported from a diversity of nurseries located in Louisiana, Alabama and Texas. Well over 5,000 plants will be assembled representing 600 different species. The Hilltop Gift Shop will be joined by specialty plant and garden and food vendors in Vendor Village, located under the open-air pavilion, to meet all the needs of gardeners and their gardens. More event information, plants, volunteering, parking, etc.
October 12, 2019
Wild Things
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Complex in Lacombe, LA
Wild Things is a family event that features guest exhibitors, Wildlife Youth Art Exhibition (see art exhibition info), canoe and pontoon boat tours, wildflower walks, live animals, hayrides, archery, a casting pond, a kids activity tent, bird house building, food, live music, and more. Admission, parking, tours and music are all FREE. Food will be available for purchase benefiting the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges.
October 22, 2019
Discover Nature: How to be a Citizen Scientist > Monarch, Frog and Firefly Watch Programs
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Citizen science is about creating research collaborations between scientists and volunteers. Citizen science allows people of all ages to participate in sound science, learn, and network with other like-minded individuals in their communities. We will discuss the many forms citizen science can take and how to get involved. Programs highlighted will include FrogWatch USA™, The Great Backyard Bird Count, and Monarch Watch. From birds, butterflies, and frogs there's a citizen science for you! The presenter is Darcy Tatsch, the Volunteer Coordinator at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Management. This "Discover Nature Series" presentation is in partnership with Hilltop Arboretum, CANPS and LMNGBR. $5 for members and $10 for non-members.
October 27, 2019
LMNGBR Plants Workshop
October 29, 2019
LSU Science Café: Extreme Green
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Climate change and limited fresh water and land for crops are challenges to growing enough food to feed the world. However, some plants called extremophytes have evolved over millions of years to grow in difficult environments. LSU Department of Biological Sciences Assistant Professor Maheshi Dassanayake will tell us about her research on extremophytes that may offer solutions to a future food crisis. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
October 30 - November 2, 2019
Yellow Rails and Rice Festival
The goal of this unique birding event is for every participant to see a Yellow Rail as they are flushed out of the rice fields during harvest. Registration is first-come-first-served. More information
November 4, 2019
Winter Hummingbirds
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
@LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, Burden Conference Center, 4560 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Jane Patterson, Louisiana Master Naturalist and President of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society will be presenting at this Reflections in the Garden event. Admission is $10 per person (free for Friends members). Everyone is welcome! Bring a lunch if you like; drinks provided.
November 16, 2019
LMNGBR Mammals Workshop
November 19, 2019
LSU Science Café: Fish on the Table - Sustaining Louisiana's Commercial Fisheries
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Join Louisiana Sea Grant College Program Executive Director and LSU Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences Professor Robert Twilley for an engaging talk about our fisheries’ greatest challenges and adaptations to a changing environment. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
December 7, 2019
LMNGBR Natural History Workshop & Graduation!
January 19, 2020
Arbor Day at Burden
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
@Burden Woods, LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Plant a family tree and watch it grow through the years. Visit Smokey Bear, enjoy StoryTime, a scavenger hunt, children’s tree climbing activity and more. Free admission.
February 7 - 9, 2020
Louisiana Native Plant Society Meeting
@Wesley Center, 2350 Methodist Parkway, Woodworth, LA 71485
February 29, 2020
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@Burden/LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Herb Day is an educational outdoor and gardening event and sale sponsored by the American Herb Society Baton Rouge Unit. There will be an Herb “Petting Zoo” and other children’s activities to make this event fun for all ages. Herb classes will start at 9:30 a.m. and continue every hour. The event is free and open to the public.
April 4, 2020
Master Gardener Plant Sale
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@Burden/LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Shop from over 5,000 homegrown perennials and annuals specifically selected by the East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners for success in your garden! The EBR Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale raises money to support the educational activities of the Master Gardeners and the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. The event is free and open to the public.
April 17 - 19, 2020
Rendezvous 2020: Statewide Master Naturalist Conference
@Camp Hardtner, Pollock, LA
The Louisiana Master Naturalist Association annual conference. Registration opens in January.
June 20, 2020
Garden Fest
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Burden/LSU AgCenter Botanic GardensBring the family for some summertime fun in the gardens! Garden Fest is a family friendly festival in the middle of Baton Rouge that promotes locally grown foods. Your family will enjoy fresh morning omelets by the Louisiana Egg Commission, famous Bloody Mary samples by Mason's Grill and local food trucks. Activities for kids include water slides, "Touch-a-Tractor" and hayrides! There will be vegetable trials and tastings and a chance to meet amazing local plant and gardening clubs in Baton Rouge. Admission is $5 per person and free for children ages 3 and under. Bring your swimsuits and prepare for a fun Saturday at the Botanic Gardens!
Forager Hike
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Poverty Point World Heritage Site, 6859 Highway 577, Pioneer, LA 71266
Get a look at some of the plants which would have been eaten and used by the ancient Native Americans at Poverty Point World Heritage Site. A 1.5 mile ranger-led hike will take visitors through a portion of the earthworks with a focus on useful native plants. This event begins at 9:30 a.m. with a short introductory film, followed by the hike itself.
August 17, 2019
Beginner Birding Workshop
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Tuten Park in Lake Charles
The Gulf Coast Bird Club announces a FREE Beginner Birding Workshop to be held at Tuten Park on Saturday, August 17 from 8 am to noon. This is a family-friendly activity and all are welcome. School-aged children are welcome with an adult participant. Please bring binoculars and a bird field guide if you have them.
August 17 - 18, 2019
LMNGBR Arthropods & Nocturnal Naturalist Workshops
Overnight @Allen Acres
August 22, 2019
The Louisiana Watershed Initiative
6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
@The Backpacker, 7656 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA
Pat Forbes, executive director of the La. Office of Community Development, and a frequent speaker for the Council for Watershed Management, will provide an update on the Watershed Initiative. Created in May of 2018 by an executive order by Gov. John Bel Edwards, the Council is responsible for directing the development and implementation of a statewide, watershed-based flood plain management program. This is a BR Sierra Club general membership meeting, but the public is welcome to attend.
August 24, 2019
Insect Day at the Museum
11:00 a.m.
@Lafayette Science Museum, 433 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501
August 27, 2019
LSU Science Café: Coastal Voices - Stories of Resiliency
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Coastal Louisiana is one of the most dynamic places in the country. Generations who have lived there have adapted to the changing landscape. Join LSU Associate Professor of Religious Studies and History Michael Pasquier to learn about the oral history project, Coastal Voices, he and his students have embarked upon to capture the stories of Louisiana resilience. For more about their project, go to coastalvoices.lsu.edu. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
August 27, 2019
History of Medicinal Plants
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
@Ascension Parish Library, 708 S Irma Blvd, Gonzales, LA 70737
There is evidence in the fossil records that humans have been utilizing plants for medicinal purposes as far back as 60,000 years ago. In Louisiana, historical accounts of medicinal herbs used by locals such as the Cajuns, African-Americans, Native-Americans, and Creoles, have been recorded since the 1800’s. Since the 1990’s, there has been a resurgence of interest in naturally derived medicines. Dr. Heather Kirk-Ballard, LSU Professor of Consumer Horticulture, will explore this fascinating subject. To register, call the Gonzales location at (225) 647-3955.
August 30, 2019
Spider Walk with Dr. Aimée Thomas
7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
@Northlake Nature Center, 23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, LA 70448
Meet and greet our awesome family of spiders at the NNC. The best visual meet and greet is at night when they are busy spinning their webs and your flashlight captures their works of art! Learn about spiders and their habitat from an expert in the field who has special interest in our 8 legged friends! Limited space available. Free for Members, Non-members $5. To register, call 985-626-1238 or email Rue@northlakenature.org.
September 9, 2019
OLLI Fall Birding Class
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
@White Oak Estate and Gardens, 17660 George O'Neal Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70817
Jane Patterson teaches this 4-week class that is designed for the beginning bird watcher. For adults 50+. You will go on bird walks and learn basic information about birdwatching, binoculars and field guides, tips and tricks for identifying birds by sight and sound, where and how to use your new birding skills. Register at OLLI.
September 9, 2019
Fall Birding Basics
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. plus morning bird walk sessions
@Hilltop Arboretum, 11855 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Jane Patterson teaches this 4-week class that is designed for the beginning bird watcher. You will go on bird walks and learn basic information about birdwatching, binoculars and field guides, tips and tricks for identifying birds by sight and sound, where and how to use your new birding skills. Register online $50.
September 11, 2019
PARD Fall Birding Class
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
@Ponchatoula Area Recreation District gym, 19030 Ponchatoula Parks Dr., Ponchatoula, LA 70454
Jane Patterson teaches this 4-week class that is designed for the beginning bird watcher. You will go on bird walks and learn basic information about birdwatching, binoculars and field guides, tips and tricks for identifying birds by sight and sound, where and how to use your new birding skills. Register online $23.
September 13, 2019
Summer's End Night Hike and Campfire
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
@BREC's Zachary Community Park, 20055 Old Scenic Highway, Zachary, LA 70791
A great way to say goodbye to summer and kick-off the school year. The program will include a night hike learning about local ecology and nocturnal animals and will include activities and games. End the night around a campfire roasting marshmallows and learning local folk lore. Come enjoy this great way to get the family out in nature as the summer heat subsides. Children must be accompanied by an adult and able to complete a 2.5 mile hike in the dark without a light.
September 14, 2019
LDWF Wildlife Rehabilitation Training
8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
@Acadian Cultural Center, 501 Fisher Rd., Lafayette, LA 70508
Learn the basic skills needed to rehabilitate injured or orphaned wildlife so they can be successfully returned to the wild. This is the only wildlife rehab course recognized by LDWF. Registration opens August 1 and closes September 1. More information
September 14, 2019
Snakes of Louisiana with Fred Mattingly
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Northlake Nature Center, 23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, LA 70448
Fred Mattingly, a local community snake enthusiast at heart, will share his wealth of knowledge and introduce you to Louisiana’s “cool” native snakes. Then, explore the many hidden treasures at the Northlake Nature Center as you hike the trails as you learn about the importance of preserving our environment for our native wildlife species to survive. Free for Members, Non-members $5. To register, call 985-626-1238 or email Rue@northlakenature.org.
September 15, 2019
LMNGBR Forest Ecology Workshop
September 21, 2019
LMNGBR Reptiles & Amphibians Workshop
September 21, 2019
Audubon at Oakley Plantation
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
@Audubon State Historic-Site, 11788 La Highway 965, Saint Francisville, LA 70775
Celebrate the time of John James Audubon at Oakley Plantation in 1821. Guests speakers, a birding talk, along with hands on activities are just some of the happenings on this day. Any age will find something of interest!
September 21, 2019
Collecting Seed from Louisiana Native Plants
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Garden Study Center, New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park
Marc Pastorek will discuss collecting and storing seed and some methods of propagating native wildflowers and grasses of Louisiana. He will touch on the requirements of specific species and will focus on those species that are hardest to grow. Feel free to bring questions about plants you may be interested in growing in your garden. Marc Pastorek is an environmentalist with a deep interest in natural systems and their restoration and management. He is co-founder of Pastorek Habitats, a landscape design and consulting firm that specializes in restoring native grassland habitat. Marc is a contributor to the new book Southeastern Grasslands: Biodiversity, Ecology and Management, University of Alabama press. He and his wife Candi operate their business as partners and live and garden in Covington, Louisiana.
September 21, 2019
Haynesville Celebration of Butterflies
@Claiborne Parish Fair Complex, 1563 Fairgrounds Dr, Haynesville LA 71038
Festival highlights include: Educational Seminars, Parade, Memorial Butterfly Conservatory, Sale of Butterfly Plants, Butterfly Books, and T-Shirts Craft & Food Vendors, Take-home Butterfly Towers, Art & Photography Contest, Exhibits, Childrens’ Activities, 5K/1K run/walk, Music. More information in the festival brochure
September 24, 2019
Discover Nature: The Magic of Hummingbirds
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Even people who are not otherwise enamored of birds adore hummingbirds. And how can you not? They are tiny flying jewels that grace our gardens with their presence and always make us smile. But they are also incredibly resilient and travel hundreds of miles each year on their migratory journeys. Come learn about the life history of these fascinating birds and also learn what you can do to attract them to your yard year round! This presentation is by Jane Patterson, an LMNGBR member and our birding workshop instructor. She is also the current President of Baton Rouge Audubon Society, as well as the Education chair. This "Discover Nature Series" presentation is in partnership with Hilltop Arboretum, CANPS and LMNGBR. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for non-members.
September 24, 2019
LSU Science Café: Live Oaks, Arches and Terracotta
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Join LSU Professor of Architecture Michael Desmond as he presents the story of LSU’s architectural past and future. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
September 26, 2019
Landscaping for Birds and Other Wildlife
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
@Bluebonnet Library
The East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners are hosting presentations in the libraries. This month's presentation is in two parts: Spicing Up Your Garden With Fall Color and Landscaping for Birds and Other Wildlife.
September 27 - 28, 2019
Butterfly Blast
@Allen Acres, Pitkin, LA
Details TBA
September 28, 2019
Folsom Fall Garden Festival
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
@Midway Church Park, Highway 25 N, Folsom, LA
Talk with Louisiana growers and enjoy the fall plant sale, which includes native plants. There will be children's activities, concessions and demonstrations too.
September 29, 2019
LMNGBR Birds Workshop
September 29, 2019
Top 25 Native Plants: PlantFest Teaser
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
The 2019 pre-sale PlantFest Teaser will feature Brian Sean Early, who will talk about his “Top 25 Native Plants” that are underutilized in urban gardens. All participants will receive a copy of his must have native plant reference, Louisiana Native Plant Resource Guide for Gardeners and Landscapers. Brian Sean Early works for LDWF as a botanist for the Wildlife Diversity Program where he is part of a team studying and working to preserve Louisiana’s coastal prairie remnants. Brian Sean also serves as a botanist for the Kitsatchie National Forest and maintains the native plant garden at LDWF headquarters. To put the “tease” in this annual PlantFest! “pre-quel”, one of each of the plants presented will be eligible for purchase by a drawing process. After his program, Brian will lead a walk about through the plant sale area that will already be set up for PlantFest! 2019 the following weekend (Oct 5th and Oct 6th). Hilltop Members: $10.00, Non-Members: $15.00. More information and online tickets.
October 3 - 5, 2019
Bayou Bonafouca Marsh Restoration
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge in Lacombe, LA
The Bayou Bonfouca Marsh Restoration event is being hosted by the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL), Chevron, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Volunteers are needed to prepare and plant native marsh grass. This project will assist in stabilizing a marsh creation project and will help establish native vegetation that will create wildlife habitat. More information and registration. Additional dates: October 17 - 19.
October 5 - 6, 2019
36th Annual PlantFest!
Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. & Sun. Noon - 4:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Brace yourself for a botanical “all you can tweet” plant feast … trees, shrubs, perennials, vines, ferns (best selection in BR), fruits, gingers, camellias, incredible edibles, ornamental grasses, and more that run the gamut from native and traditional to eclectic and electric newcomers. To spice up the mix, plants are imported from a diversity of nurseries located in Louisiana, Alabama and Texas. Well over 5,000 plants will be assembled representing 600 different species. The Hilltop Gift Shop will be joined by specialty plant and garden and food vendors in Vendor Village, located under the open-air pavilion, to meet all the needs of gardeners and their gardens. More event information, plants, volunteering, parking, etc.
October 12, 2019
Wild Things
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Complex in Lacombe, LA
Wild Things is a family event that features guest exhibitors, Wildlife Youth Art Exhibition (see art exhibition info), canoe and pontoon boat tours, wildflower walks, live animals, hayrides, archery, a casting pond, a kids activity tent, bird house building, food, live music, and more. Admission, parking, tours and music are all FREE. Food will be available for purchase benefiting the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges.
October 22, 2019
Discover Nature: How to be a Citizen Scientist > Monarch, Frog and Firefly Watch Programs
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
@LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Citizen science is about creating research collaborations between scientists and volunteers. Citizen science allows people of all ages to participate in sound science, learn, and network with other like-minded individuals in their communities. We will discuss the many forms citizen science can take and how to get involved. Programs highlighted will include FrogWatch USA™, The Great Backyard Bird Count, and Monarch Watch. From birds, butterflies, and frogs there's a citizen science for you! The presenter is Darcy Tatsch, the Volunteer Coordinator at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Management. This "Discover Nature Series" presentation is in partnership with Hilltop Arboretum, CANPS and LMNGBR. $5 for members and $10 for non-members.
October 27, 2019
LMNGBR Plants Workshop
October 29, 2019
LSU Science Café: Extreme Green
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Climate change and limited fresh water and land for crops are challenges to growing enough food to feed the world. However, some plants called extremophytes have evolved over millions of years to grow in difficult environments. LSU Department of Biological Sciences Assistant Professor Maheshi Dassanayake will tell us about her research on extremophytes that may offer solutions to a future food crisis. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
October 30 - November 2, 2019
Yellow Rails and Rice Festival
The goal of this unique birding event is for every participant to see a Yellow Rail as they are flushed out of the rice fields during harvest. Registration is first-come-first-served. More information
November 4, 2019
Winter Hummingbirds
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
@LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, Burden Conference Center, 4560 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Jane Patterson, Louisiana Master Naturalist and President of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society will be presenting at this Reflections in the Garden event. Admission is $10 per person (free for Friends members). Everyone is welcome! Bring a lunch if you like; drinks provided.
November 16, 2019
LMNGBR Mammals Workshop
November 19, 2019
LSU Science Café: Fish on the Table - Sustaining Louisiana's Commercial Fisheries
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
@Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Join Louisiana Sea Grant College Program Executive Director and LSU Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences Professor Robert Twilley for an engaging talk about our fisheries’ greatest challenges and adaptations to a changing environment. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking and light refreshments, and the talk will start at 6 p.m. Remember, people of all ages are welcome, so please spread the word and join us for a fun and informative night. For more info, please call 225-578-3870.
December 7, 2019
LMNGBR Natural History Workshop & Graduation!
January 19, 2020
Arbor Day at Burden
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
@Burden Woods, LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Plant a family tree and watch it grow through the years. Visit Smokey Bear, enjoy StoryTime, a scavenger hunt, children’s tree climbing activity and more. Free admission.
February 7 - 9, 2020
Louisiana Native Plant Society Meeting
@Wesley Center, 2350 Methodist Parkway, Woodworth, LA 71485
February 29, 2020
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@Burden/LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Herb Day is an educational outdoor and gardening event and sale sponsored by the American Herb Society Baton Rouge Unit. There will be an Herb “Petting Zoo” and other children’s activities to make this event fun for all ages. Herb classes will start at 9:30 a.m. and continue every hour. The event is free and open to the public.
April 4, 2020
Master Gardener Plant Sale
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@Burden/LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Shop from over 5,000 homegrown perennials and annuals specifically selected by the East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners for success in your garden! The EBR Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale raises money to support the educational activities of the Master Gardeners and the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. The event is free and open to the public.
April 17 - 19, 2020
Rendezvous 2020: Statewide Master Naturalist Conference
@Camp Hardtner, Pollock, LA
The Louisiana Master Naturalist Association annual conference. Registration opens in January.
June 20, 2020
Garden Fest
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
@Burden/LSU AgCenter Botanic GardensBring the family for some summertime fun in the gardens! Garden Fest is a family friendly festival in the middle of Baton Rouge that promotes locally grown foods. Your family will enjoy fresh morning omelets by the Louisiana Egg Commission, famous Bloody Mary samples by Mason's Grill and local food trucks. Activities for kids include water slides, "Touch-a-Tractor" and hayrides! There will be vegetable trials and tastings and a chance to meet amazing local plant and gardening clubs in Baton Rouge. Admission is $5 per person and free for children ages 3 and under. Bring your swimsuits and prepare for a fun Saturday at the Botanic Gardens!