The Northeastern U.S. hosts a rich diversity of native plants, many of which play essential roles for humans and the environment. Alarmingly, a number of these species are seeing a precipitous decline. Many natives are imperiled as a result (New York State considers one-quarter of its native plant species to be of conservation concern). Despite these figures, no comprehensive or integrated program exists to study trends in the status ofnative plants across the region.

Through a series of expert presentations, followed by a panel discussion, this summit will address our dearth of knowledge by bringing together experts and interested members of the public to present and discuss the state of the area’s plant species, plot the best course forward, and highlight ways in which everyone can make a difference for native plants in the Northeast.

Photo Credit and Description: NYBG: Dragon’s Mouth (Arethusa bulbosa) (detail), an orchid native to northeastern North America that has declined dramatically in the past few decades throughout much of its geographic range. Commissioned for this Summit and painted by renowned botanical artist Bobbi Angell.

Topics and Speakers:

Floristic Change in the Northeast
Robert Naczi, Arthur J. Cronquist Curator of North American Botany, The New York Botanical Garden

Invasive Plant Species in New York: Hitchhikers or Important Ecosystem Engineers?
Bernd Blossey Associate Professor, Cornell University Department of Natural Resources

Urbanization—The Bad, The Good, and The Very Good
Rebecca Dolan, Director of Friesner Herbarium, Butler University Department of Biological Sciences

Lowland Boreal Plants: Distribution, Ecology, and Vulnerability
Jerry Jenkins , Project Coordinator for Forest Management, Wildlife Conservation Society Adirondack Program

Mobilizing Citizens for Studying, Conserving, and Appreciating Native Plants in New York
David Werier, Recent Past-President, New York Flora Association

The Promise of Native Plants and Their Communities for Restoring Degraded Landscapes and Creating Sustainable Green Systems
Donald Leopold , Chair and Distinguished Teaching Professor, State University of New York College of Environmental Science & Forestry Department of Environmental & Forest Biology

The Best Way Forward for Plant Conservation
Mary Klein , President & CEO, Nature Serve

Member: $20 , Non-Member: $25, Lunch $10