PlantNebraska will host several events in western Nebraska in celebration of Nebraska Wildflower Week, June 1-7. The statewide initiative shines the spotlight on Nebraska’s unique and diverse native wildflower species. All events are free and open to the public.
Chadron
- PlantNebraska is partnering with the Northwest Nebraska Trails Association and Chadron State College to offer a pop-up plant sale; plant talk with Bob Henrickson, PlantNebraska horticulture coordinator; and garden walk June 4 at the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, 1000 Main St. The sale is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the center's parking lot; the talk is 10 to 11 a.m. inside the center; and the garden walk is 11 to 11:45 a.m., with participants meeting outside the center.
Gering
- A guided wildflower hike will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. June 5 at Scotts Bluff National Monument, starting at 190276 Old Oregon Trail. A National Park Service ranger will lead the hike. Participants should meet in the parking lot outside of the visitor's center, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to walk over uneven ground. Snacks and water will be provided.
- A PlantNebraska plant sale will be from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. June 6 at Community Ever Green House, 1210 Overland Trails Road. A wide variety of native and well-adapted flowers, herbs and plants for sun and shade will be for sale. All proceeds support PlantNebraska’s programs, which create sustainable landscapes, gardens and green spaces across Nebraska. Current PlantNebraska members get a 15% discount on all plant purchases.
Harrison
- A guided sunset hike will occur from 6:30 p.m. to sunset June 4 at the Gilbert Baker Wildlife Management Area, starting at Monroe Canyon Road. Explore beautiful trees and flowers in this pristine area, five miles north of Harrison. Participants should meet in the parking lot near the restrooms, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to walk over uneven ground. Snacks and water will be provided.
Scottsbluff
- A volunteer planting and arboretum tour will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. June 5 at the North Platte Natural Resources District, 100547 Airport Road. Participants can help plant a pollinator garden, explore the arboretum and enjoy refreshments with PlantNebraska staff. Register online.
- A PlantNebraska members and friends gathering will take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. June 5 at Papa Moon Headquarters, 3109 Avenue B. The event will feature plant and nature trivia, cider and wine, snacks and conversation. PlantNebraska members (or those who become members at the event) will receive a complimentary glass of wine or cider. Registration is required here.
- A PlantNebraska affiliate site celebration will be at 10:30 a.m. June 6 at the Riverside Discovery Center, 1600 S. Beltline Highway West. Attendees can celebrate PlantNebraska's newest accredited arboretum. They should meet at the pollinator garden at the site of the former aviary.
For a complete list of events statewide, as well as directions, maps, printable bookmarks and activities, visit the PlantNebraska website.
