KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
The Ecological Interrelationships between Insects and Birds in Your Garden
There is an unbreakable link between native plant species and native wildlife including insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. Plants take the energy of the sun and transform it into protein and fat via insects – organisms so critical for the continuing success of all other species. Our local insects have adapted to ever-changing urban environments yet still prefer to feed primarily on native plants. Without these native plants, the insects cannot survive. Dena will discuss the fascinating but often unseen ecology that is played out every day in our own backyards. She will challenge us to see our landscapes as more than designed compliments to our homes and businesses; that the are indeed entire micro ecosystems . Lay to rest your fears, and disdain for the creepy-crawly insect world and see these creatures anew through the eyes of birds and the critical role they play in the survival of our migratory and resident bird populations.
Dena Greenwood began her birding adventures 25 years ago as an Arizona State Park’s ranger leading bird walks and developing bird guides for several State Parks. She received her graduate degree in environmental biology with an emphasis in ornithology, botany and geology. She conducted bird research for Colorado Plateau Research Station, National Park Service, and the U.S. Forest Service on the Verde, Colorado, and San Juan River corridors. Dena has been guiding birding field trips throughout the Southwest for over 20 years with the Elderhostel program and the Audubon Society. She is a board member and field trip Chair for Northern Arizona Audubon Society and a founding committee member of the Verde Valley Bird and Nature Festival organizing field trips for the Festival. She currently manages Jay’s Bird Barn in Sedona and leads Wednesday bird walks.
Native and Drought-Adapted Trees: Best Practices for Success
Residential trees can provide social, environmental, and economic benefits to communities. Proper selection, planting, care, and maintenance are important factors that influence tree health and longevity. This presentation will discuss these factors, provide resources, and help attendees increase their knowledge of tree care in the context of residential landscapes.
County Agent, Jeff Schalau, provides non-formal education on the topics of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension in Yavapai County. Jeff provides science-based information to Yavapai County residents in the areas of forest health, watershed management, noxious/invasive plants, range management, pasture, and horticulture. He does this by providing training and support to Yavapai County Master Gardeners that assist the public and professionals with science-based diagnosis and appropriate horticulture solutions.