Educating the public about the benefits of preserving and restoring biodiversity
OUR MISSION
of our native plant communities, beginning in our own yards and gardens.
WELCOME ALL
Meetings are free and open to the public.
Sobieski Yard Tour
August 15th, 2025 6 pm
Join Stone Silo Prairie Gardens owner Justin Kroening as we explore how to establish a native yard in sand soils. This property boasts a unique plant assemblage that thrives in sand
Address:
363 Tommary Trail
Sobieski, WI 54171
A Flourishing Success at the Rescheduled Native Plant Gathering
The recent rescheduling of the Native Plant Gathering turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it blossomed into a resounding success. Enthusiasts of all ages flocked to the riverside venue, eager to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of native plants and sustainable landscaping.
A Blooming Interest
The event attracted a diverse crowd, from seasoned botanists to curious beginners, all united by their passion for indigenous flora. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of plants flourishing along the river, each showcasing the beauty and practicality of native landscaping.
Educational and Engaging
Participants were treated to informative handouts detailing how best to incorporate native plants into their own gardens. The enthusiasm was palpable as attendees learned how these homegrown heroes can transform any landscape into a thriving ecosystem.
Generous Giveaways
No visitor left empty-handed, thanks to the generous distribution of plants, informative literature, and other delightful freebies. These offerings served as both a token of appreciation and a practical starter kit for attendees eager to implement what they learned.
A Community United
The event was more than just an exhibition; it was a celebration of community and a collective step towards sustainable living. The shared commitment to preserving and promoting native plants fostered a sense of unity and purpose among participants.
Ground Nesting Bees
Many thanks to all who helped make the Spring Plant Sale a success and much appreciation to all of those who supported our sale. Go Wild, Plant Natives!
Join Us at the Railroad Museum
WILD ONES Green Bay Members: Stop by and check out the progress on the native garden. Be watching for the next “work” date. We always enjoy new faces to share in the fun.
Announcing 2025 Grant Winners!
First Place
Maria Otto, Farlin Park Pollinator Habitat, City of Green Bay Conservation Corps
Maria’s long-term goal “is to improve habitat in a public space for the benefit of wildlife and the community. The Pollinator Corridor Project seeks to connect the urban city of Green Bay with pollinator habitats to allow pollinators to travel from the east side to the west side and beyond”
Wild Ones is excited to be a part of this project, and we look forward to seeing it develop throughout the year.
Congratulations to Maria and the Green Bay Conservation Corps for winning GB Wild Ones first place $500.00 grant, yard sign and one year free membership.
First Place
Natalie Buhl, Green Bay Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.
Natalie states their goals. “As Unitarian Universalists, we believe in the importance of the interdependent web of life. Our Food Forest plan lives out this value by bringing more resources for wildlife to an urban area, in the forms of plants, animals, and insects. In the short term, we hope to decrease our dependence on the traditional lawn. In the long term, we hope to raise awareness in our community neighborhood about the importance of biodiversity.”
An award of $500, a yard sign and one free year membership is granted to this new native garden project located on Main street in Green Bay.
Second Place
Amanda Smith
Amanda’s goal is to “establish a native front yard planting that is almost entirely lawn-free and serves as inspiration to the many passersby of which tend to own and maintain substantial lawn acreage. The transformation will be noticeable and beautiful to the country community who are accustomed to large acreages of lawn.”
We are happy to support Amanda as she works to remove grass from her yard and show those passing by what can be done with native plants.
As a second place winner, Amanda will receive 2 Green Bay Wild Ones Pollinator Kits ($160.00 value), a yard sign and one year free membership.
Signs for Sale
Thanks to ‘No Mow May’, there is an awareness about protecting our native pollinators. However, there is a better solution. Let’s provide food and habitat to help sustain wildlife year round.
Hats off to the City of De Pere for their Planned Natural Landscapes guidelines that replaces ‘No Mow May’. We applaud their efforts and others like the Homegrown National Parks Program with the One Plant Challenge.
“Knowledge generates interest, and interest generates compassion.”
― Douglas W. Tallamy
Knowing Your Seed Source is IMPORTANT!
Be observant of Wild Flower mixes, and select ones that contain ALL NATIVE seeds for our local pollinators.
“The ABC’s of Starting a New Native Garden” was presented by Ceci Kiefer and Justin Kroening at the February meeting.
On a cold January night, we were warmed with garden ideas by a presentation about “Creating a Pollinator Garden with Native Plants” by Ceci.
Wild Ones Native Garden Designs
Preserving Wisconsin’s Prairies: What Can You Do?
Click the title above which is linked to a news story about how you can help bring pollinators to your yard. You can start with simply adding three plants to your yard; one type of milkweed, one type of mint, and one favorite flower of your choosing. And to really have an impact, encourage your neighbors to do the same. To find out how to start native plants from seed, consider attending our January meeting at the Green Bay Botanical gardens.
“As gardeners and stewards of our land, we have never been so empowered to help save biodiversity from extinction.” ~ Douglas Tallamy