For Immediate Release
Date: April 23, 2007
Contact: Kevin Coburn

Center for Native Plant Studies Established at the Montshire Museum of Science

NORWICH—The Montshire has a long history of presenting public programs on native plant species and conservation issues. Thanks to startup funds generously provided by a local anonymous donor, the Museum will be able to formalize these activities through a new Center for Native Plant Studies.

The Center will offer many new workshops, public lectures, and exhibits about native plants. It also supports a growing relationship with the New England Wild Flower Society (NEWFS), which has designated the Museum as a regional center for courses and certification in native plant studies.

"The Montshire is already an important hub that brings together many local experts and resources," said Montshire director David Goudy. "The funding will build on this foundation, resulting in expanded public understanding of native plants and their conservation."

The Center will support the hiring of a native plants gardener who will work under the direction of Montshire curator Joan Waltermire. This will lead to expanded plantings and maintenance of wildflowers and other native flora on Museum grounds. New features at the Museum will include exhibits on gardening techniques like leaf mold composting and mulching, and other opportunities to help visitors identify and appreciate the magnificent warm-season native grasses established in Science Park and in the adjoining meadow.

NEWFS is a key partner in the new program—it is the largest public native plant education resource in America. The organization works with volunteers throughout New England to survey, monitor, and manage native plants and their habitats, remove non-native invasive plants, and reintroduce rare and endangered plants into the wild. Over the past two years the Montshire has offered several programs co-sponsored with NEWFS.

"Many people want to learn how to plant native species in their gardens, or identify plants they find on their property; others can go through a native plant certificate program which provides more comprehensive training through a structured series of classes," said Greg Lowenberg, education director of the New England Wild Flower Society.

The Center will also bring expert presenters to the Montshire from many other regional organizations including state and Federal agencies, area colleges and universities, and conservation groups. The Montshire's education staff, already experts at engaging children in hands-on exploration, will be able to expand their area of expertise and offer more plant study programs, thus encouraging future generations to become knowledgeable advocates for native plants.

The Montshire Museum of Science is a hands-on museum located in Norwich, Vermont, offering dozens of exciting exhibits relating to the natural and physical sciences, ecology, and technology. The building is located on a 110-acre site near the Connecticut River, and the Museum's outdoor environment is a large part of the visitor experience. The Montshire Museum is an official visitor center for the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge.

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