This six-part educational series explores practical, science-based approaches to creating more sustainable home landscapes in southeastern North Carolina. Each session features a local expert and focuses on actionable strategies homeowners can apply immediately. Participants are encouraged to attend all six sessions, though individual registrations are welcome. Each talk will begin at 5:30 PM and end at 6:30 PM.
Backyard Sustainability Series – Spring 2026
(Updated: April 23, 2026, 4:30 p.m.)
| Date | Session | Topic | Speaker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | Our Ecological Backyard | Ecological principles of sustainable home landscapes | Amy Mead |
| Wednesday, May 13, 2026 | Stormwater Solutions | Stormwater runoff, rain gardens, and water quality | Matt Collogan |
| Wednesday, May 20, 2026 | Importance of Pollinators | Native plants, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem support | Gabriella de Souza |
| Wednesday, May 27, 2026 | Backyard Composting | Composting methods, soil health, and waste reduction | Sarah Dousharm, New Hanover County Recycling & Waste |
| Wednesday, June 3, 2026 | Trees for Resiliency | Tree selection, climate resilience, and long-term landscape value | Amy Mead |
| Wednesday, June 10, 2026 | Recycling Right | Recycling best practices and contamination reduction | Feletia Lee, UNCW Recycling |
All sessions are held at the New Hanover County Arboretum | N.C. Cooperative Extension, 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403. Doors open at 5:15–5:20 PM. Free parking is available. Each talk will begin at 5:30 PM and end at 6:30 PM.
Registration
Each session is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Attendees under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Register for individual sessions using the links in the schedule above.
Accommodations
Accommodation requests should be directed to Gabriella de Souza at gadesouz@ncsu.edu at least 15 days before the event. NC State University is an equal opportunity institution.
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