The Xerces Society’s Jennifer Hopwood will discuss relationships among “Plants, Pollinators and People” at September’s ASO General Meeting. Focusing on the conservation of invertebrates critical to bio diversity and ecosystem health, the Xerces Society provides resources and training for pollinators and beneficial insect habitat management, creation and restoration. Jennifer earned a Master’s degree in Entomology from the University of Kansas. With experience in field and laboratory research, identification, education and outreach, Jennifer is the co-author of several books including 100 Plants to Feed the Bees and Farming with Native Beneficial Insects. Prior to joining the Xerces Society 10 years ago, she taught Biology and Environmental Science at colleges in Iowa.

Our September 12 program will discuss the fascinating lives of insects essential to natural, agricultural and urban landscapes and help us understand how we can care for these vital pollinators who impact the food we eat, the clothes we wear and the open spaces we treasure.

Then, mark your calendar to get to know Austen Hill, Education Programs Supervisor for the Papio-Missouri River NRD, at ASO’s October 10 General Meeting. Austen will review the benefits of the NRD’s ongoing conservation projects. A Wildlife and Fisheries graduate of UNL, Austen served as an educator at Fontenelle Forest for more than three years before beginning his eight-year stint with the Papio-Missouri River NRD.