Year of the River Speaker Series - All about Native Garden Design

Throughout the year, this series will feature engaging talks from professional speakers covering a wide range of topics, including the Boardman–Ottaway River, conservation efforts, GTCD history, natural resources, and more. Each program offers an opportunity to learn, reflect, and deepen our connection to the river and landscapes that shape our community.

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/person. Registration is required.

Audience: Adults and teens

ALL ABOUT NATIVE GARDEN & DESIGN

Featured Speaker: Matthew Ross, The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park

When: Wednesday, June 24, from 5:00 - 6:00 pm

NATIVE GARDEN WALK & TALK

Featured Speaker: Shelly Stusick, Invasive Species Network

When: Wednesday, July 29 // 5:00 - 6:00 pm

BOARDMAN RIVER WATERSHED: Current Conditions and Conservation in Action

Featured Speaker: Sara Vaughan, GTCD Director of Conservation

Wednesday, September 23, 2026 // 5:00 PM 6:00 PM

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE AND CLEAN RIVERS

Featured Speaker: Adam Brown, GTCD Agriculture Program Coordinator

Wednesday, November 18, 2026 // 5:00 PM 6:00 PM