The Xerces Society spearheaded a social media campaign with the “leave the leaves” slogan. Essentially, they ask people to leave the leaves that fall to the ground in the autumn as overwintering habitat for various animals. Leaf litter makes great habitat not only for insects but for also a bunch of other ground dwelling animals. This is a great way to boost the pollinator population, feed the birds and create a healthy ecosystem using nature’s free resources. We know that mulch—like leaf litter—helps hold moisture in the soil, provide nutrients to plants and helps plants withstand weather extremes. But leaving leaf litter comes with challenges for homeowners, garden guardians and habitat managers of all stripes. Wizzie Brown will help us understand how to keep leaves and why.

Come learn about building a healthy ecosystem in your yard, garden or natural area!

Speaker Bio:

Wizzie Brown has been with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service since 2002 and has been playing with insects since she was a toddler. She is an Extension Program Specialist with AgriLife’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

Wizzie earned a B.S. in entomology from The Ohio State University and a M.S. in entomology from Texas A&M University. Wizzie’s research focuses on imported fire ants, including community wide fire ant management. The integrated pest management program provides identification, biological and management information to anyone who needs help. In addition, AgriLife Extension Program Specialists Molly Keck and Wizzie Brown, educate listeners about insects found in the urban backyards and gardens of Texas. You can find their podcasts at: https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-local/bugs-by-the-yard-podcast/

You can also find insect and other arthropod information on Wizzie’s blog.

Zoom Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AqHQDyKWS_uJHAke91GDmA

If you are in the DFW area, join us in North Dallas at Dallas College Brookhaven Campus, Building H, Room 125.  (Brookhaven Campus map).

Or join us in South Dallas at Mountain View College, Building S (Administrative offices), Room 1029. (Mountain View Campus map). Virtual  Meeting Watch Party

Schedule:
 6:30 Camera Roll and Socializing
 7:00 Introduction and Announcements
 7:20 Featured Presentation
 8:45 Adjournment

Bring Food and Snacks to share at all locations!

Report hours to AT: NTX: Chapter Meeting (1 hour) TMN at Report hours
Do not include drive time.