Conservation Stories: A Virtual Lecture Series
We need native plants. Their importance cannot be overstated; they sustain countless forms of wildlife; they improve the air that we breathe by filtering pollutants, sequestering carbon and offering oxygen; they define the places we hold dear. California native plants have been integral to the stories of every California Native American culture since time immemorial and they are part of every Californian’s story today.
With climate change, expansive urban development, environmental degradation and other significant challenges, the future of many California native plants and places is far from certain. But these challenges are worth fighting for the future of our native plants, habitats and the human communities they sustain.
That is the mantra of our amazing guests and this lecture series. Through these talks, we aim to share the stories of diverse plant scientists and conservationists who are leading efforts to safeguard and celebrate native plants from all corners of California. Hear from these inspiring individuals about their actions to safeguard threatened species and habitats - and how you can help!
This fall, join us via Zoom every third Tuesday of the month from 6pm - 7pm for an evening of conversation about conservation. You must register online to receive the Zoom link. The suggested donation is $10, but there will be an option to register for the talk free of charge.
Naomi Fraga Ph.D, Director of Conservation Programs
Discussing the San Bernardino Mountains with California Botanic Garden Executive Director, Lucinda McDade
Tuesday, September 15 | 6pm - 7pm
Naomi Fraga joined the staff of CalBG in 2001 as an intern in the herbarium. As she gained experience through education and hands-on learning, she became responsible for programmatic leadership and management of the field studies program - early version of today’s conservation program - in 2003. Since 2015 she has served as the Director of Conservation Programs. Naomi earned her Ph.D. and M.S. in Botany from Claremont Graduate University (at California Botanic Garden) and her B.S. in Botany from Cal Poly Pomona. Naomi is passionate about plant conservation and her research focus includes plant systematics, floristics, rare plant biology, and pollination biology. In addition to her role at the Garden, Naomi serves as the Secretary for Southern California Botanists, as chair of the Environment and Public Policy Committee for the American Society for Plant Taxonomy, and as Treasurer for the Amargosa Conservancy. You can learn more about Naomi's research on her website monkeyflower.org
Future talks:
Join us Tuesday, October 20 when Sophia Winitsky will discuss her conservation work in the Adobe Valley.
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, November 17 for a discussion with Maria Jesus about her conservation work in the southern Inyo Mountains.