From Fall through Frost: How to Conserve Beneficial Insects and Wildlife in Your Gardens and Green Spaces

HoCo Bee City Presents Madeline Potter, University of Maryland Extension Faculty Specialist for Entomology and Integrated Pest Management, for an interactive workshop on extending life in your green spaces by conserving beneficial insects and other wildlife through the cold winter months.

Not all animals migrate to warmer areas once the temperatures drop, some animals seek shelter in leaves and plant debris like bumble bee queens and luna moth pupae. For a biodiverse spring, learn how to create and protect overwintering habitat within your own spaces, no matter how big or small your green space might be (container and potted gardens included)!

Participants are encouraged to bring a sketch/map of their green space, including different plant species/types, structures, etc. for an opportunity to think through overwintering habitat that fits their own spaces.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this workshop, please contact Madeline Potter by email: mpotter@umd.edu or phone: (301) 226-7615 by Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024. University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class.

Madeline Potter is a Faculty Specialist for Entomology and Integrated Pest Management with the University of Maryland Extension (UME) Home and Garden Information Center where she educates the public and trains UME faculty and staff in topics such as insect conservation and sustainable insect pest management.

Before her current role, Madeline was a Master Gardener Coordinator and Horticulture Educator with UME, based in Howard County, MD where she oversaw 170+ volunteers and led presentations, trainings, and programs reaching thousands of participants.

She received a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Horticulture and a Master of Science in Entomology from the University of Maryland, College Park. Madeline has been working in the field of outreach and education for the past six years along with conducting research to improve our understanding of sustainable management of invasive insects. Madeline is dedicated to fostering inclusive, learner-centered educational environments, aiming to empower others through science-based knowledge and hands-on experiences.

This class is part of the 2024 Maryland STEM Festival