This year, we hope to offer two days of learning and fun. We are planning educational activities for Saturday, March 6 followed by an evening Poster Session which is a presentation of current research into the native plant field by university students from area universities such as Grand Valley, University of Michigan, Michigan State, Wayne State and more. Not only is it a wonderful opportunity to learn the newest thinking in the field, but it will also provide networking opportunities. The Poster Session is open to everyone and runs from 6 to 8 pm on Saturday, March 6. Appetizers and a cash bar will be available.
On Sunday, March 7, our Michigan Native Plant Conference will begin. We will offer a light breakfast starting at 8:00 am. Our keynote speaker will begin at 9:00 am followed by breakout sessions so attendees can select the session most interesting to them. Of course, a delicious lunch will be served and there will be an array of vendors selling artwork, jewelry, books and more. During lunch, we will present the WAM Grant winners. These are non-profit organizations who will be using funds from our generous members and donors to create, install and maintain native plant gardens throughout the state.
Our last event is the Annual WAM Board meeting. Plan to drop by and meet the volunteer board members and learn how the WAM organization is run. We value ideas and suggestions from our members.
To encourage year-long learning all registrants will receive invitations to watch at least three webinars featuring professional presentations on the relationships between native plant ecosystems and the enhanced biodiversity they provide. Here are the webinars that are available to everyone who registered for the 2026 conference:
Julie Crick – Priority Plant Patrol on March 18, 2026
Mike Weiss -Oak Savanna Gardens on July 21, 2026
Nicki Bailey – Where do honeybees bee-long on October 28, 2026
Non-members $150
Members $120
Students $30
More details will be posted closer to the conference date.
