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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240622T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240622T100000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20240215T221429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T121157Z
UID:5869-1719050400-1719050400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, Lake in the Hills Fen\, Saturday\, June 22\, 2024\, 10am
DESCRIPTION:Description:  This walk will be led by Dave Schwaegler\, who is a steward at the Lake in the Hills Fen.  Lake in the Hills Fen is a dedicated Illinois Nature preserve featuring three diverse habitats: dry hill prairies\, sedge meadows\, and rare and beautiful fens.  You will have the opportunity to take a few steps into a fen.  If you’re adventurous\, prepare for cold spring water a couple of inches deep flowing over a solid gravel bed.  With a plant inventory of over 600 species\, nearly 500 native\, we are sure to see some interesting flowers.   Here are a few that typically bloom in late June:  Prairie Smoke in Seed\, Low Calamint\, Prairie Cinquefoil\, Pale Purple Coneflowers\, Hill’s Thistle\, Toothed Evening Primrose\, Narrow-leaved Loosestrife and Marsh Woundwort.  Photos of Prairie Smoke and Narrow-leaved Loosestrife are below.  In addition to the flora\, late June is a great time to see grassland birds and butterflies.  We will surely hear\, if not see\, Henslow’s sparrows.  Perhaps we will see a colorful Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly.  For a map of Barbara Key Park (Gateway to the Fen)\, a photo album and additional information\, see https://lithfen.org/.   Dave has also published videos\, including some of the fen\, on his YouTube channel.  This is a guided walk that will start at 10am.  The walk is free of charge and no registration is required. \nDirections:  We will meet in the Barbara Key Park (9191 Pyott Rd\, LITH) parking lot off of Pyott Rd in Lake in the Hills.  From Rakow Road\, take Pyott Road south toward Algonquin.  Barbara Key Park will be on the right before you get to Algonquin Road.  Follow the entrance road back to the parking lot.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-lake-in-the-hills-fen-saturday-june-22-2024-10am/
LOCATION:Barbara Key Park\, 9191 Pyott Road\, Lake in the Hills\, IL\, 60156\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/LITH-Fen1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240718T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240718T210000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20230922T234043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230922T234043Z
UID:5494-1721329200-1721336400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC Annual Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The WPPC’s Annual Meeting will be Thursday\, July 18\, 2024 at 7pm in the McHenry County College Commons area.  The major topic of discussion will be the Executive Board elections.  The public is welcome\, but only WPPC voting members may vote on proposals or elections.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppc-annual-meeting-2/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/42AC8BF5-7DD0-4FE0-9056-619F6C88569F.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240721T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240721T140000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20240127T170636Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240224T181647Z
UID:5844-1721559600-1721570400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, Native's Haven Nursery\, Sunday\, July 21\, 11am & 2pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:  This walk will take place at Native’s Haven Nursery on Sunday\, July 21\, 2024.  The walk is free of charge\, and no pre-registration is required.  Guided tours of the property will begin at 11am and 2pm.  Bill and Terrie Warzecha\, the owners of Native’s Haven\, describe their wonderful property as follows:  We bought the 6-1/4 acre property in 2005\, and it was farmland.  After that\, we began the transformation of the corn/soybean field.  We began planning and planting from the property’s backyard line\, then the house was built.  We planted both non-native and native plants on the part of the property that was our vision to become a nursery.  When we were designing and planting\, it wasn’t our intention to have a native plant nursery.  It was going to be called “Ponds and Petals\,” featuring water gardens and plants. \nWe decided to dedicate about 1.5 acres to a native plant prairie and planted a prairie mix of wild flowers and grasses containing 100 different species of native wildflowers and grasses to bloom continuously late spring through fall.  A few years down the road\, we saw how the natives grew and thrived without watering and how much life the prairie was attracting\, and from that realization\, we decided why not make this a native plant nursery?  It was a no-brainer! \nWe researched and studied all about native plants and networked with native plant experts (like the wonderful WPPC and TLC members).  Our vision was to create a nursery where you would be able to observe native plants available for retail purchase in a natural setting.  We also wanted to feature formal beds landscaped in a way to provide design ideas to showcase how native plants can be used even in smaller settings\, such as subdivisions or urban properties with minimal garden space\, where a more manicured look is desired. \nIn 2016\, we opened the doors to Natives Haven Nursery!  Throughout the nursery\, we placed signs in beds containing information on the plants’ characteristics\, such as native range\, etc.  These signs also include fun facts on how early Native Americans used the native plants for medicine\, clothing\, shelter\, etc.  Several plants on the property are on the federally threatened and endangered list. \nWe invite you to take the time to enjoy the rejuvenating benefits Natives Haven’s gardens have to offer. Stroll the meandering paths surrounded by wildflower display beds.  A large pond with a fountain is nestled in between.  Along the way\, sit at one of our many benches where you are encouraged to watch or just listen to the birds and pollinators.  It is soothing to the soul!   You will be astounded at the amount of birds\, butterflies and pollinators these native plants attract! \nAfter the WPPC “Walk on the Wild Side” today\, you will have an opportunity to purchase plants. \nDirections:  Take Rt. 47 north out of Woodstock heading towards Hebron. Turn left (west) on Thayer Road.  Go two miles to Johnson Road.  Turn right (north).   One mile to Durkee Road.  Turn left.  Property is on the corner of Johnson and Durkee Road.  13809 Durkee Rd\, Harvard.   Please park on Durkee Road. \n \n                                                               \n 
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-natives-haven-nursery-sunday-july-21-11am-2pm/
LOCATION:Native’s Haven Nursery\, 13809 Durkee Rd.\, Harvard\, IL\, 60033\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Warzecha-Fountain.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240810T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240810T093000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20240224T174257Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240224T174839Z
UID:5894-1723282200-1723282200@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, The Property of Drew Knobloch & Robin Taylor\, Saturday\, August 10\, 2024\, 9:30am
DESCRIPTION:Description:  This is the first of two walks today.  This beautiful yard showcases various young native prairie gardens started from seed! Enjoy the blooms of Spotted Bee Balm\, Compass Plants\, Ironweed\, and Black-Eyed Susans while seeing the progression of the prairie gardens. This yard offers a unique opportunity to compare the different stages of growth as the plants transform and mature over time. Learn about the process of starting a prairie from seed and hear stories about the hurdles and victories of the journey.  Additionally\, a new garden planned through the WPPC’s mentoring program was installed in 2023 which will offer a growth comparison of starting from seed versus using plugs.  This walk is a must for anyone considering starting their own prairie!  This is not an open house.  The guided walk led by the homeowner will begin at 9:30am.  The walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required.  When this tour is complete we will depart to the Madsen property for the day’s second garden walk. \nDirections:  Take Rt 31 north through McHenry\, turn right on Johnsburg Rd.  Continue on the road\, and past Johnsburg it will turn into Wilmot Rd.  North of Rt 12\, Paddock is the first road on the left after passing Main St Rd.  The property will be on the right.  1106 Paddock Rd\, Spring Grove.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-the-property-of-drew-knobloch-robin-taylor-saturday-august-10-2024-930am/
LOCATION:The Knobloch/Taylor Property\, 1106 Paddock Road\, Spring Grove\, IL\, 60081\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Knobloch1.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240810T104500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240810T104500
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20240224T180904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240224T180904Z
UID:5898-1723286700-1723286700@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, The Property of Gretchen & Tim Madsen\, Saturday\, August 10\, 2024\, 10:45am
DESCRIPTION:Description:  This is the second of two walks today.  Our yard is the culmination of (thankfully) minimal blood\, lots of sweat\, and tears of joy!  Our journey began in 2019 with our WPPC mentee garden. From those first plant babies going in the ground\, we knew we were hooked and our native gardens have continued to expand and multiply over the years.  Our 160 year old home serves as the backdrop to many charming\, cottage style gardens bursting with Liatris\, Rudbeckias\, and Milkweeds.  Highlights include flagstone paths that meander through blooms\, a small waterfall and pond\, a robust vegetable garden\, and a sprinkling of garden baubles to add a touch of whimsy. Come listen to the buzz of the pollinators while we share the peaks and valleys of our chaotic adventure in native gardening!  This is not an open house.  The guided walk led by the homeowner will begin at 10:45.  The walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required. \nDirections:  From the Knobloch/Taylor property\, take Paddock back to Wilmot Rd and turn right.  Turn right on Main St Rd.  The house will be the first one on the right.  1202 Main St Rd\, Spring Grove.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-the-property-of-gretchen-tim-madsen-saturday-august-10-2024-1045am/
LOCATION:IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Madsen7.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T120000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241122T214507Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250116T184446Z
UID:6006-1746871200-1746878400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, Saturday\, May 10\, 2025 at 10am & 12pm at the Property of Chrissy and H.M. Hepperlen
DESCRIPTION:Description:  The WPPC’s spring Walk on the Wild Side will be Saturday\, May 10\, 10am and 12pm at the home of Chrissy and H.M. Hepperlen.  They describe their yard:  We planted the first natives on our property back in 2006 as part of the WPPC’s Natural Garden in Your Yard mentoring program.  Those went into a prairie garden on a south-facing sandy hillside.  Over the next couple of years we expanded that garden to encompass the whole of the hillside.  From there we turned to the opposite corner of the yard which was wooded and shady.  After several years of cutting Buckthorn\, sawing Honeysuckle and spraying Garlic Mustard we started to see some native woodland species such as Solomon’s Seal and Mayapples re-emerge from the seed bank.  Over time\, we added dozens more species dug from local yards and purchased from the WPPC’s annual plant sale. \nThere are several new Oaks and Hickories that have appeared since the area was cleared\, and we’ve transplanted several other trees such as Pagoda Dogwood\, Ironwood and Witch Hazel.  In mid-May there should be many woodland species blooming including Virginia Bluebells\, Celandine Poppy\, Woodland Phlox\, Red/Yellow/White Trillium\, Foam Flower\, Rue Anemone\, Wild Geranium and possibly Lady’s Slipper Orchids.  Please join us!  This walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required.  This is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowners will start at 10am and 12pm. \nDirections:  6508 N. Wyndwood Drive\, Crystal Lake\, 60014.  From Crystal Lake\, take Rt 14 toward Cary.  Turn left at Sands Rd which is the stop light near the Home Depot.  Cross the railroad tracks\, go a half mile and turn right on Wyndwood Drive.  Follow the road a half mile or so back\, go around the bend to the left and we are the first driveway on the right after passing Lindsay Lane.  Parking is available on Lindsay Lane and on Wyndwood Drive in front of the house. \n  \n                             
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-saturday-may-10-2025-at-10am-at-the-property-of-chrissy-and-h-m-hepperlen/
LOCATION:Hepperlen Property\, 6508 N Wyndwood Drive\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HM5.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250628T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250628T130000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20250102T213413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T213813Z
UID:6085-1751108400-1751115600@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, The property of Stacy & Mike Iwanicki\, Saturday\, June 28\, 2025\, 11am & 1pm
DESCRIPTION:Directions:   Stacy and Mike Iwanicki have been naturalizing their yard since building their home in 2003. Former farm fields now support over 100 species of prairie\, savannah\, woodland and wetland plants. The Iwanicki prairie is the naturalized portion covering 3/4 of an acre of their 1.24 acre lot. The remaining areas of more formalized landscape feature primarily native species too. The d-rain garden was added to their front ditch in the spring of 2008\, the year of their last Natural Yard walk\, has taken hold and now features blue flag iris and Canada anemone among other wet tolerant prairie plants. The d-rain garden is back-dropped on higher ground by ninebark\, indigo bush\, a white oak\, American plum and most recently\, northern bush honeysuckle. In late June\, the main Iwanicki Prairie is dominated by purple coneflower and monarda\, accented by orange butterfly weed and yellow coreopsis. Meandering paths lead to many surprises along the way!  This yard walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required.  It is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowners will start at 11am and 1pm. \nDirections:  The Deerpath subdivision is on the west side of Wonder Lake south of Wondermere Road between Greenwood Road to the west and Thompson Road to the east. From Wondermere\, turn south onto Adam. Follow to Twin Oaks and turn right. Go two streets to White Tail and turn left. Follow the curvy road to Marissa and go left to 9100 Marissa Trail – third house on left. Park in drive and along road as necessary. If lost\, call Stacy at 815-236-2423.  9100 Marissa Trail\, Wonder Lake\, IL \n                     \n    
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-the-property-of-stacy-mike-iwanicki-saturday-june-28-2025-11am-1pm/
LOCATION:Iwanicki Property\, 9100 Marissa Trail\, Wonder Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Iwanicki1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250720T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250720T130000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241121T230117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241122T215326Z
UID:5995-1753009200-1753016400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, Sunday\, July 20\, 2025\, The Property of Mike Gallery & Donna Hriljac\, 11am & 1pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:     Please join us for a tour of a 2+ acre restored prairie in Bull Valley!  The walk will be on Sunday\, July 20\, 2025 at the property of Mike Gallery and Donna Hriljac.  Walks will begin at 11am and 1pm.  Mike and Donna write:  Our prairie restoration work encompasses 2 1/4 acres. We began restoring in 2017. Initially we were faced with little more than Hungarian Brome\, an invasive grass from Europe\, in our 2 acre section and plain old lawn grass in the 1/4 acre backyard section.  So starting from scratch\, we burned the brome in the 2 acre piece\, we worked to remove invasives like honeysuckle and buckthorn and we cut all manner of out-of-control growths like dogwood\, autumn olives and an overabundance of walnut trees.  With that complete\, we seeded the first acre in 2018 with the Pollinator Palooza seed mix from Prairie Moon Nursery in Minnesota. \nAfter a two year break\, we seeded our 1/4 acre backyard in 2020 with a Shortgrass Woods Edge seed mix and seeded the second acre of the 2 acre piece in 2021 again using the Pollinator Palooza seed mix.  The result of this staggered seeding is that we have 2 1/4 acres of prairies in different stages of development. When we host our garden walk\, one acre will be 7 years old\, the other acre will be 4 years old and our backyard 1/4 acre project will also be 4 years old. This results in the opportunity for some interesting comparisons about one acre’s plants versus the other’s versus the backyard’s mix. In July\, we expect a wide variety of plants to be flowering on all sections.  We welcome anyone who is interested in prairie restoration for their yards or communities or is just curious!\n \nThis yard walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required.  The walk is not an open house.  Guided tours led by the homeowners will begin at 11am and 1pm. \nDirections:  7911 Bennington Court\, Bull Valley\, IL\, 60098.  Take Bull Valley Rd to S. Valley Hill Rd.  Turn north (left turn coming from Woodstock\, right turn from McHenry).  Turn right onto Concord Dr\, go for 0.3 miles.  Turn left at the “T” intersection to stay on Concord.  After 0.5 miles\, turn left again onto N. Concord Dr\, go for 270 feet.  Turn right on Bennington Ct. \n  \n              
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-sunday-july-20-2025-the-property-of-mike-gallery-donna-hriljac-11am-1pm/
LOCATION:Gallery/Hriljac Property\, 7911 Bennington Court\, Bull Valley\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GH1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250802T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250802T133000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20250102T211118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250116T184023Z
UID:6080-1754132400-1754141400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, The Property of Kathy & Ders Anderson\, Saturday\, August 2\, 2025\, 11am & 1:30pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:   The Anderson restoration was started in 1981 and over the years spread to 1 ½ acres. Cows heading out to pasture in the 100+ years previously left a field of Hungarian Brome and an eroded wetland. Now the site includes a variety of mesic prairie\, sedge meadow\, fen\, cattail marsh\, oak savanna\, xeric prairie\, and a cool-water creek. Over 100 native tree\, shrub\, forb\, sedge and grass species are present on the site.  To keep the habitat healthy\, the property is burned annually.  This yard walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required.  It is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowners will start at 11am and 1:30pm. \nDirections:  Take Walkup Road north from Rt. 176 (Crystal Lake) to Crystal Springs Rd. Turn west on Crystal Springs.  Springbrook Rd is the first left after passing Col. Holcomb Estates.  The property will be on the left.  2712 Springbrook Rd\, Bull Valley\, IL \n                     \n    
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-the-property-of-kathy-ders-anderson-saturday-august-2-2025-11am-130pm/
LOCATION:Anderson Property\, 2712 Springbrook\, Bull Valley\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ders1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250927T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20250123T164810Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T164810Z
UID:6113-1758967200-1758970800@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, The Property of Jim & Marlene Keenan\, Saturday\, September 27\, 2025\, 10am
DESCRIPTION:Description:  Come see the results of Jim “the Native Seed Man” and Marlene’s efforts to reconstruct a native prairie in what was once a soy bean field. You’ve seen prairies in the exuberant flush of youth in the spring\,\nand the robust health of middle age in summer; now experience this 4 acre prairie’s beauty as it settles into maturity at the beginning of fall. There will be asters\, goldenrods\, and gentians in bloom. Grasses and many flowers\nwill have seed heads on display.  Jim earned his Ecological Restoration Certificate from McHenry County Conservation District and has a wealth of information to share. If you would like to learn how to grow a prairie\, or just be surrounded by it’s autumnal beauty\, do not miss this walk!  All WPPC Walks on the Wild Side are free of charge and no pre-registration is required.  This is not an open house.  Guided walk led by the homeowners will start at 10am.\n\nDirections:  Take Rt. 31 north out of McHenry\, 6 miles north of Rt. 120 turn right on Harts Rd (away from Glacial Park).  Follow Harts Rd. 1.2 miles to its end\, turn left (north)\, go .35 miles to 6905. Turn left onto blacktop drive just past white farm house. Park on grass on the left side of drive.  6905 South Solon Rd\, McHenry.\n\n                   
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-the-property-of-jim-marlene-keenan-saturday-september-27-2025-10am/
LOCATION:The Keenan Property\, 6905 South Solon Road\, McHenry\, IL\, 60051\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Keenan3.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251016T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251016T210000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241009T150223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241009T150223Z
UID:5978-1760641200-1760648400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC Business Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The WPPC’s next Business Meeting will be Thursday\, October 16\, 2025 at 7pm in the McHenry County College Commons area.  The major topic of discussion will be next year’s budget.  The public is welcome\, but only WPPC voting members may vote on proposals or elections.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppc-business-meeting-8/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/42AC8BF5-7DD0-4FE0-9056-619F6C88569F.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260115T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260115T210000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241009T144511Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T145843Z
UID:5968-1768503600-1768510800@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC Business Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The next WPPC Business Meeting will be Thursday\, January 15\, 2026 at 7pm via Zoom.  The major topic of discussion will be the upcoming seminar.  The public is welcome\, but only WPPC voting members may vote on proposals.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppc-business-meeting-1-15-26/
LOCATION:Via Zoom\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/42AC8BF5-7DD0-4FE0-9056-619F6C88569F.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260228T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260228T160000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241009T145134Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T193716Z
UID:5970-1772265600-1772294400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Natural Landscaping Seminar
DESCRIPTION:The WPPC’s annual Natural Landscaping Seminar will be held on February 28\, 2026 at McHenry County College.  Presentations will include woodland restoration from forests to front yards\, plants in high-quality remnant prairies\, local butterflies and their host plants and a discussion on Piping Plovers.  For details\, a schedule of events and a link to online registration\,  see the seminar webpage.  The price will be a very reasonable $50 for online or early mail-in\, and $55 at the door.  The price will include access to all four presentations\, our book table\, vendor booths from local conservation organizations and our famous buffet lunch.  Online registration is now closed but you may register at the door on February 28 beginning at 8am.  Due to on-going construction at the college\, the main doors to the commons area may be closed.  The entrance to the left (under the Luecht Auditorium sign) will be open\, and leads directly to the registration table.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/natural-landscaping-seminar/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2020_IMG_0216-1st-speaker.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260319T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260319T210000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241009T145534Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T150213Z
UID:5972-1773946800-1773954000@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC Business Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The next WPPC Business Meeting will be Thursday\, March 19\, 2026 at 7pm in the McHenry County College Commons area.  The major topic of discussion will be the upcoming plant sale.  The public is welcome\, but only WPPC voting members may vote on proposals.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppc-business-meeting-7/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/42AC8BF5-7DD0-4FE0-9056-619F6C88569F.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260426T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260426T140000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20260211T164756Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T171203Z
UID:6318-1777197600-1777212000@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side--Schietzelt Property\, Sunday\, April 26\, 2026\, 10 am & 2pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:  As springtime carpets the woodlands with the blues of Virginia Bluebells and the yellows of Celandine Poppies\, you are invited to walk our forest trails. Whether you’re exploring the pine forest in the front yard or the oak-hickory forest in the back\, there will be many species of spring ephemerals to seek out.  Wild Geraniums\, Trilliums\, Wild Ginger\, Jack-in-the-Pulpits\, and Mayapples will be just some of the wildflowers blooming. This property\, once the home of Bill and Ardath Wingate\, definitely puts on its best show in the spring. Come see it!  This is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowners begin at 10am and 2pm.  All WPPC Walks on the Wild Side are free of charge and no pre-registration is required. \nDirections:  Take Walkup Rd. north out of Crystal Lake. Driveway is on the left (west) side\, just north of the traffic light at Hillside Rd. Parking space is limited. If you are able to walk a short distance please park on Vermont Trail\, north of the driveway (the street with the covered bridge). That will leave the few parking spaces available for those that need them.  4419 Walkup Rd\, Crystal Lake. \n  \n           
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-schietzelt-property-sunday-april-26-2026-10am2pm/
LOCATION:Schietzelt Property\, 4419 Wlakup Road\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Schietzelt1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260503T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260503T150000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241009T145800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T162923Z
UID:5974-1777809600-1777820400@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC's Annual Native Plant Sale
DESCRIPTION:The WPPC’s Annual Native Plant Sale will be Sunday\, May 3\, 2026 in the commons area at McHenry County College.  The sale runs from noon until 3\, but it’s best to arrive early as many of our most popular species sell out quickly.  We often have a line forming before 11:30.  We offer native plants for many habitats\, so there will be something for you no matter if your yard is sunny\, shady\, wet or dry.  This year’s sale will offer over 130 species with prices generally in the $4 to $9 range.  Plant availability changes from year to year\, but this plant list shows what is normally available.  In addition to plants native to northern Illinois we will have a a selection of books available for sale and a vendor offering heirloom vegetable plants and herbs.  Not sure how to incorporate native plants into your yard?  Our garden plans have ideas for a variety of planting conditions.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppcs-annual-native-plant-sale/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PS46-kb-e1700253319224.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260627T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260627T120000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20260124T193147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260504T142913Z
UID:6288-1782554400-1782561600@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side--Locknar Property\, Saturday\, June 27\, 2026\, 10am & 12pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:  The second WPPC Walk on the Wild side for 2026 will be Saturday\, June 27 at 10am and 12pm at the property of Pat and Stan Locknar.   The 1½ acre yard has several perennial flower gardens that attract butterflies\, bees and humming birds. The highlight is the 50’x100′ wildflower garden with native wetland plants started with seed in 2009.  In the center of it all is a Bald-Cypress Tree.  There are several nesting bird boxes that host Blue Birds\, Tree Swallows and Wrens. Throughout the year they get Baltimore and Orchard Orioles\, Cedar Waxwings\, Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks\, White-Breasted Nuthatches\, Northern Cardinals\, and Finches.  Off the backyard deck is a 11’x17’ Zero Edge pond and a 10’ stream with water plant bog filtration. The pond is home to a floating island\, Koi and a variety of goldfish.  This is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowner will start at 10am and 12pm.  All WPPC Walks on the Wild Side are free of charge and no pre-registration is required. \n  \nDirections:  From north-bound Rt 31\, turn right onto Johnsburg Rd\, then left on Spring Grove Rd\, which turns into Winn Rd north of Rt 12.  Turn left on White Tail Dr\, then right on Squirrel Dr at the end.  From there\, left on Deer Trail.  The house will be on the left.  2807 Deer Trail\, Spring Grove. \n                 \n 
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-locknar-property-saturday-june-27-2026-10am-2/
LOCATION:The Locknar Property\, 2807 Deer Trail\, Spring Grove\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Locknar.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T210000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20241009T150001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T150451Z
UID:5976-1784228400-1784235600@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC Annual Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The WPPC’s Annual Meeting will be Thursday\, July 16\, 2026 at 7pm in the McHenry County College Commons area.  The major topic of discussion will be the Executive Board elections.  The public is welcome\, but only WPPC voting members may vote on proposals or elections.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppc-annual-meeting-3/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/42AC8BF5-7DD0-4FE0-9056-619F6C88569F.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260726T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260726T120000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20260111T030851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260111T032335Z
UID:6281-1785060000-1785067200@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side in a Bull Valley Prairie\, Sunday\, July 26\, 2026\, 10am & 12pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:  The landowners began their native prairie restoration project in 2017.  After clearing invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle\, they began seeding small areas with native seeds.  Each year\, additional sections were added to their native prairie restoration project which currently stands at 2 1/2 to 3 acres.  Maturing native plant areas\, as well as new sections\, are still undergoing seed bank depletion and clearing. \nMowed walking paths meander through the different prairie areas.  The colorful blooms of many of the native plants are at their peak in July.  Native oak trees have been planted including bur\, swamp\, black\, red\, and white varieties. \nThe rolling terrain of this sunny property showcases three types of prairies – hill and sand\, mesic\, and wet prairie.  The hill/sand prairie features plants that tolerate dry soil and includes purple prairie clover\, large flowered penstemon\, blue grama\, and hoary vervain.  The flatter mesic prairie\, which has better moisture retention\, has a greater variety of wildflowers and grasses.  This area includes purple coneflower\, leafy prairie clover\, yellow coneflower\, wild bergamot\, sideoats grama\, and little bluestem.  The lower wet prairie and wetland area includes restored areas and some remnant habitat.  Here you’ll find mountain mint\, boneset\, and compass plant.  Plants are identified by plaques similar to botanical gardens. \nThis is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowner will start at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm.  There is no pre-registration required and the walk is free of charge. \nDirections:  From McHenry\, take Route 120 west to Thompson Road.  Turn left (south) and drive 3/4 mile to Marshland Way.  Turn right (north) and proceed to the white house.  Park on the street.  1405 Marshland Way\, Bull Valley\, IL  60098.  \n                            
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-in-a-bull-valley-prairie-sunday-july-26-2026-10am-12pm/
LOCATION:Bull Valley Prairie\, 1405 Marshland Way\, Bull Valley\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Bull-Valley-Prairie3.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T103000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20260322T181344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T181344Z
UID:6347-1787394600-1787394600@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, Christ the King Church and the Shiel Property\, Saturday\, August 22\, 2026\, 10:30am
DESCRIPTION:Description:  Two walks in one!  We’ll start off at Christ the King Church in Wonder Lake\, and afterwards will move a half a mile to the property of John Shiel\, who was involved with restoring the church property.  John writes of the church prairie:  What if 20 years of relaxed restoration work on an old pastured farmstead suddenly yielded an insight?  A discovery? An epiphany? An overlooked plant species reveals itself\, and then its friends?  It says “no way you put me here!  I been here longer than people!”  Then\, the whole crashing realization that you’ve been burning and seeding and clearing and walking on virgin soil all this time??  St. Francis Prairie is that place.  That story.  2.5 acres on the 23 acre site of a church built in 1959 in Wonder Lake.  We took prairie seed from my yard for those 20 years and so\, part two of the walk is half a mile away at my quarter acre natural yard\, born 1989.\n\nThis is not an open house.  The guided walk led by John will start at the church at 10:30am.  All WPPC Walks on the Wild Side are free of charge and no pre-registration is required.\n\nDirections:  From Rt 120\, turn north on E. Wonder Lake Rd.  Turn right on Hancock Dr\, then left on  E. Wonder Lake Rd.  The church will be on the right.  Christ the King Church  5006 E. Wonder Lake Rd\, Wonder Lake.  Following this tour\, we will tour the property of John Shiel.   4707 Winnebago Dr\, Wonder Lake.\n\n             
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-christ-the-king-church-and-the-shiel-property-saturday-august-22-2026-1030am/
LOCATION:Christ the King Parish\, 5006 East Wonder Lake Road\, Wonder Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Shiel3.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260920T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260920T130000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20260221T220623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260221T220623Z
UID:6329-1789900200-1789909200@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:Walk on the Wild Side\, The Blue Farm\, Sunday\, September 20\, 2026\, 10:30am & 1pm
DESCRIPTION:Description:  The Blue Farm is an 80 acre conservation and agricultural easement owned by Kevin Yapp and Alisha Mowbray.  Since purchasing the property in 2019\, Kevin and Alisha have developed an ornamental garden to replace some of the lawn around the home featuring mainly native plants and have begun to reseed one of the 2 fields previously in a corn-soy rotation with local wildflowers and grasses.  Along with the ornamental garden\, the walk will cover oak forest\, remnant prairie and a unique fen centered around 4 seeps that is currently being restored with the assistance of The Land Conservancy of McHenry County.  At this this time of year you’ll be able to see several species of aster\, rudbeckia\, sedges and liatris as well as (hopefully) cream\, bottle and fringed gentian and many other exciting plants. Please wear sturdy shoes as the paths can be uneven.  This is not an open house.  Guided walks led by the homeowners will begin at 10:30am and 1pm.  All WPPC Walks on the Wild Side are free of charge and no pre-registration is required.\n\nDirections:  Take 173 west from Alden\, turn right (west) on Oak Grove Road\, then turn right (north) on Reese Road.  Property is on the west side of road and marked with a small sign.  Proceed along driveway and follow signs to parking area.  9513 Reese Road\, Harvard IL 60033.\n       
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/walk-on-the-wild-side-the-blue-farm-sunday-september-20-2026-1030am-1pm/
LOCATION:Blue Farm\, 9513 Reese Road\, Harvard\, IL\, 60033\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Bluefarm4.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T210000
DTSTAMP:20260506T135225
CREATED:20230923T151302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T150809Z
UID:5507-1792090800-1792098000@www.thewppc.org
SUMMARY:WPPC Business Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The WPPC’s next Business Meeting will be Thursday\, October 15\, 2026 at 7pm in the McHenry County College Commons area.  The major topic of discussion will be next year’s budget.  The public is welcome\, but only WPPC voting members may vote on proposals or elections.
URL:https://www.thewppc.org/event/wppc-business-meeting-6/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.thewppc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/42AC8BF5-7DD0-4FE0-9056-619F6C88569F.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee":MAILTO:grow@thewppc.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR