Special Access Workshop: Prairie Restoration, Seed collection & Identification

Instructor Derek Carwood: Arboretum Manager of Adult Education

Instructor Annie Gunness: Annie works as a Natural Resources Horticulturist at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and has been with the Arb for over 7 years. She manages restoration efforts within maple-basswood forests, oak savanna, tallgrass prairie and wet prairie habitats including the iconic Bennett-Johnson Prairie. She also manages display gardens representing these ecosystems including the Grace B. Dayton Wildflower garden, Prairie Demonstration Garden, as well as the Johanna Frerichs Garden for Wildlife. Annie received a Bachelor's from the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University and has a certification in Ecological Restoration from the University of Minnesota. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Natural Resources Science and Management from the University of Minnesota.

Join Derek and Annie for this introductory workshop where you will be introduced to and given a behind the scenes look at the iconic Bennett-Johnson Prairie. This workshop will begin with a classroom presentation on the site’s reconstruction, evolution, and restoration efforts followed by a hands-on plant identification and collection activity. Attendees will be permitted “special access” during this class with the instructors to collect seeds for future prairie restoration efforts and have the exclusive opportunity to take some home for planting!

In this introductory class you will: 

• Learn about the history of prairies in the midwest and at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
• Explore the latest techniques for prairie restoration and local seed collection best practices
• Get exclusive access one of the oldest reconstructed prairies in Minnesota
• Experience first hand how to identify and collect native prairie seed with genetic integrity

Supplies: All supplies and plant materials included in the cost of the class. Includes paper bags for seed collection, pruners/snippers, pens, notebook

Weather: As Minnesotans know, the weather can be unpredictable…that is the joy and spontaneity of spending time in the natural world! Be prepared for inclement weather and dress accordingly.