PlantNebraska to Host Free Wildflower Week Events in Western Nebraska June 4-6

PlantNebraska will host the following events in western Nebraska in celebration of Nebraska Wildflower Week (June 1-7), a statewide initiative that shines the spotlight on Nebraska’s unique and diverse native wildflower species. All events are free and open to the public; more information is available at plantnebraska.org/wildflower-week.

Thursday, June 4

Pop-up Plant Sale, Plant Talk & Garden Walk

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

1000 Main St., Chadron

PlantNebraska is partnering with the Northwest Nebraska Trails Association (NNTA) and Chadron State College to host a pop-up plant sale, a plant talk with PlantNebraska Horticulture Coordinator Bob Henrickson and a tour of the Heritage gardens and adjacent campus landscapes. Come for one part or stay for all three!

Pop-up Plant Sale: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

Plant Talk: 10-11 a.m. inside the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

Garden Walk: 11-11:45 a.m. Meet outside the Heritage Center

Guided Sunset Hike at Gilbert Baker Wildlife Management Area

6:30 p.m. to sunset

Monroe Canyon Rd., Harrison

Explore the beautiful trees and flowers in this pristine wildlife management area. Gilbert Baker is located 5 miles north of Harrison on Monroe Canyon Rd. (GPS coordinates 42.76748 -103.92664). Meet in the parking lot near the restrooms; wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to walk over uneven ground. Snacks and water will be provided.

Friday, June 5

Volunteer Planting & Arboretum Tour at North Platte NRD

10-11:30 a.m.

100547 Airport Rd., Scottsbluff

Help us plant a pollinator garden and then explore the arboretum and enjoy refreshments with PlantNebraska staff. Visit plantnebraska.org/wildflower-week to register.

Guided Wildflower Hike

Scotts Bluff National Monument

2-4 p.m.

190276 Old Oregon Trail, Gering

Join PlantNebraska for a wildflower hike led by a National Park Service ranger. Meet in the parking lot outside of the Visitor’s Center; wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to walk over uneven ground. Snacks and water provided.

PlantNebraska Members & Friends Gathering at Papa Moon Headquarters

6:30-9 p.m.

3109 Avenue B, Scottsbluff

All are welcome to join PlantNebraska staff members for plant and nature trivia, cider and wine, snacks and great conversation. PlantNebraska members (or those who become members at the event) will receive a complimentary glass of wine or cider. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Visit plantnebraska.org/wildflower-week to register.

Saturday, June 6

PlantNebraska Plant Sale

Community Ever Green House

8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

1210 Overland Trails Rd., Gering

PlantNebraska will have a wide variety of native and well-adapted flowers, herbs and plants for sun and shade for sale. All proceeds support PlantNebraska’s programs, which create sustainable landscapes, gardens and green spaces across Nebraska. Current PlantNebraska members get a 15% discount on all plant purchases.

PlantNebraska Affiliate Site Celebration at Riverside Discovery Center

10:30 a.m.

1600 S. Beltline Hwy. W., Scottsbluff

Come celebrate Riverside Discovery Center as PlantNebraska’s newest accredited arboretum. Meet at the pollinator garden at the site of the former aviary.