Luncheon Reservations Policy-In the event a member or guest makes a reservation for lunch and, at the last minute is unable to attend, she/he is required to pay for the lunch if the Club is charged by the restaurant. If a member or guest wishes to cancel her/his reservation before the reservation deadline date (Thursday) contact the Barbara Davis @ [email protected], not the restaurant.
Programs and Events 2024-2025
Monthly meetings will be held at Dutch’s Restaurant, 567 Glendale Road, on Deep Creek Lake, unless otherwise noted. Registration for meetings begins at 10:00 a.m. with time for Coffee and Chat. Programs start promptly at 10:30 a.m., followed by our business meeting and lunch.
September 17, 2024 – A World of Discovery: How Science and Heart Can Make You a More Ecological Gardener, presented by Nancy Lawson
Much has been written about gardening for human senses, but how do plants and animals perceive the world around them? What do we miss when we landscape for human visual appeal but neglect the sensory experiences of our wild neighbors? Conventional gardening practices often interfere with animals’ and plants’ abilities to interact with their environment in ways we can scarcely imagine. Through science, heart, and our powers of observation, we can learn to mitigate these disruptions and create sensory refuges in an increasingly noisy world.
October 15, 2024 – Nature-Guided Gardening, presented by Joshua Beblo
Within nature, there are numerous systems and processes that connect the various elements, organisms, and communities at different scales. When we garden, we typically select or enhance several of these relationships or characteristics to meet our interests of beauty or use. But when more of our efforts are guided by the natural relationships of our region, our gardens can be easier to manage, more productive, and supportive of a wider variety of uses. This presentation will examine the regional ecosystems and identify ways those relationships can be included in our garden design and management.
November 19, 2024 – Moths of Garrett County, presented by Jessica Klotz.
Jessica will provide an overview of some popular moth species and how to attract them to your property with native gardening. She will also discuss how to set up a mothing station for those interested in seeing what pollinators are active in their garden at night.
December 10, 2024 - Holiday Party, Dutch's at Silver Tree (Members and Guests Only)
New Date: February 27, 2025 - The Owls of Garrett County – A Local Who’s Who by Kevin Dodge
11:00 am at the Garrett College Auditorium
Owls are one of the most recognizable, yet one of the least understood, groups of birds in our region. Eight species can be found in Garrett County, but most are more frequently heard than seen. Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program at Garrett College, will discuss the specialized biology of owls and the appearance, sounds, and habitat of each of the species found in our area.
March 18, 2025
Marty Reisinger - Plant Seedbanks Around the Globe and Martha Stewart?
Martha Stewart. Wild relatives. Seeds at the north pole. Meyer lemons. War. Famine. Plant libraries. … What do these have in common? Marty Reisinger will tie these all together in his talk and will discuss how plant biodiversity is being protected for future generations by genebanks worldwide. Marty will interweave some fascinating stories of early plant explorers with some brief video clips and plant taxonomic facts that may surprise you. 2025 – Speaker and topic TBD
April 15, 2025
Linda Harris – Landscaping with Native Flowering Shrubs
Native flowering shrubs offer many ecosystem services as well as a low maintenance alternative to flower gardens. They do not require constant attention and if planted in the correct space, will not even need to be pruned. Most offer many seasonal attributes of floral displays, summer fruit, autumn seeds and berries, and winter interest. Come and learn about these beautiful and easy plants that can be added to your landscape.
May 2, 2025 – Cultivar Conundrum; Unraveling the Confusion presented by John Totten & Linda Kramer.
In recent years an emotional argument has emerged around cultivars of native plants (sometimes called ‘nativars’). What are they? Are they evil? Are they of any use in creating a native landscape? John and Linda will try to cut through the misconceptions and take a moment to look at the fascinating stories behind these plants.
June 7, 2025 – Plant Sale-New Location: Glades Pavilion on Liberty Street (just up the road from Gazebo Park)
June 17, 2025 – Installation of new officers, no program
June 21, 2025 – Garden Tour
July 15, 2025 – Summer Picnic (Members and Guests Only)
September 17, 2024 – A World of Discovery: How Science and Heart Can Make You a More Ecological Gardener, presented by Nancy Lawson
Much has been written about gardening for human senses, but how do plants and animals perceive the world around them? What do we miss when we landscape for human visual appeal but neglect the sensory experiences of our wild neighbors? Conventional gardening practices often interfere with animals’ and plants’ abilities to interact with their environment in ways we can scarcely imagine. Through science, heart, and our powers of observation, we can learn to mitigate these disruptions and create sensory refuges in an increasingly noisy world.
October 15, 2024 – Nature-Guided Gardening, presented by Joshua Beblo
Within nature, there are numerous systems and processes that connect the various elements, organisms, and communities at different scales. When we garden, we typically select or enhance several of these relationships or characteristics to meet our interests of beauty or use. But when more of our efforts are guided by the natural relationships of our region, our gardens can be easier to manage, more productive, and supportive of a wider variety of uses. This presentation will examine the regional ecosystems and identify ways those relationships can be included in our garden design and management.
November 19, 2024 – Moths of Garrett County, presented by Jessica Klotz.
Jessica will provide an overview of some popular moth species and how to attract them to your property with native gardening. She will also discuss how to set up a mothing station for those interested in seeing what pollinators are active in their garden at night.
December 10, 2024 - Holiday Party, Dutch's at Silver Tree (Members and Guests Only)
New Date: February 27, 2025 - The Owls of Garrett County – A Local Who’s Who by Kevin Dodge
11:00 am at the Garrett College Auditorium
Owls are one of the most recognizable, yet one of the least understood, groups of birds in our region. Eight species can be found in Garrett County, but most are more frequently heard than seen. Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program at Garrett College, will discuss the specialized biology of owls and the appearance, sounds, and habitat of each of the species found in our area.
March 18, 2025
Marty Reisinger - Plant Seedbanks Around the Globe and Martha Stewart?
Martha Stewart. Wild relatives. Seeds at the north pole. Meyer lemons. War. Famine. Plant libraries. … What do these have in common? Marty Reisinger will tie these all together in his talk and will discuss how plant biodiversity is being protected for future generations by genebanks worldwide. Marty will interweave some fascinating stories of early plant explorers with some brief video clips and plant taxonomic facts that may surprise you. 2025 – Speaker and topic TBD
April 15, 2025
Linda Harris – Landscaping with Native Flowering Shrubs
Native flowering shrubs offer many ecosystem services as well as a low maintenance alternative to flower gardens. They do not require constant attention and if planted in the correct space, will not even need to be pruned. Most offer many seasonal attributes of floral displays, summer fruit, autumn seeds and berries, and winter interest. Come and learn about these beautiful and easy plants that can be added to your landscape.
May 2, 2025 – Cultivar Conundrum; Unraveling the Confusion presented by John Totten & Linda Kramer.
In recent years an emotional argument has emerged around cultivars of native plants (sometimes called ‘nativars’). What are they? Are they evil? Are they of any use in creating a native landscape? John and Linda will try to cut through the misconceptions and take a moment to look at the fascinating stories behind these plants.
June 7, 2025 – Plant Sale-New Location: Glades Pavilion on Liberty Street (just up the road from Gazebo Park)
June 17, 2025 – Installation of new officers, no program
June 21, 2025 – Garden Tour
July 15, 2025 – Summer Picnic (Members and Guests Only)
Programs and Events 2023-2024
September 2, 2023
Native Plant Sale
Sang Run State Park Corn Roast, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
September. 19, 2023 Herbs with Many Uses, presented by Ashley Bodkins, Senior Agent Associate, UMD Extension Garrett County and an MLGC Honorary Member. Herbs are often an overlooked addition to our landscape and can serve many purposes. This presentation will focus on easy herbs for companion planting to help reduce pest pressure, encourage beneficial insects, add beauty to your garden, and extra goodness to your food! Specimen plants will be displayed at the meeting. Link to program: Herbs with Many Uses
October 17, 2023 Garrett County’s Black Bears presented by Jonathan Trudeau, Black Bear Project Leader, wildlife & Heritage Service, Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Jonathan will be sharing lots of information about our black bears what you may not know. Specifics about what their diet at different times of the year; results of DNRs reproductive surveys; their complex social hierarchy and range; and why it is up to us to ensure we coexist peacefully.
November 21, 2023 Youghiogheny Wild River Natural Environmental Area presented by John Ford, Deputy Director of Conservation Corps, Maryland Park Service. Beginning in the gently rolling farmlands of southern Garrett County, the Youghiogheny cuts a northward path through some of the most rugged mountain scenery in Maryland before running into Pennsylvania and merging with the Monongahela at McKeesport, Pennsylvania. In 1976 a 21-mile long segment of the Youghiogheny was designated as Maryland's first Wild River. Now a state protected corridor, John will explain how special and unique this river is and why it is protected by law.
January 18, 2024 Woodpeckers of Garrett County presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources & Wildlife Technology Program at Garrett College (11:00 at Garrett College Auditorium). Kevin will tell us about the many different woodpeckers that make Garrett County their home – where they live, what they eat, their favorite habitats, and why they are so much fun to watch during the winter months.
January 25, 2024, Thursday, at 11:00 am, Garrett College
Join us for a special presentation about Maryland’s 5 Million Trees Initiative and how that can benefit you and your property. Katherine Phillips, Tree Planting Specialist, MD DNR Forest Service, and Melissa Nash, MD DNR Forester for Garrett County, will be explaining how the program works.
February 20, 2024 Floriography - The Language of Flowers presented by Mary Costello, Master Gardener of Frederick County. (11:00 am at Garrett College Room 111 in the GEIC Bldg.) Mary’s presentation will cover the history of the use of the language of flowers, the meanings and some of their origins in myth and folklore, some activities to get more familiar with using the so-called “language,” and a list of references.
March 19, 2024 Really Cool Geology, by David Bolton, Hydrogeology Program Chief (retired), Maryland Geological Survey, Maryland Department of Natural Resources. What's beneath our feet? Why does Garrett County look so different from the rest of Maryland? The program will present the geologic history of Garrett County and how it relates to the rest of Maryland. (David is also Mary Lou Kenney’s husband.)
April 11, 2024
Power of Native Plants-Registration required.
April 16, 2024 Native Sedges: Smart Choices for Better Landscapes presented by Shannon Currey, Horticultural Educator at Izel Native Plants. These herbaceous perennials—primarily in the genus Carex—were little known in the past but are getting increased attention for their versatility in the landscape. They shine in mixed plantings and as alternatives to mulch and traditional lawn, especially in shady conditions. You’ll come away knowing which are best adapted to your region and understand how they help build ecologically sound landscapes. We’ll also include a few key grasses for slopes and shady conditions. Awaken your inner “sedge head” as we explore native Carex for your garden.
May 21, 2024 Gardening and More for 2024: Growing New Views of Future Landscapes; presented by Kirk R. Brown, Landscape Designer, Advisor and Horticulturist, Garden Communicator and Traveler, speaks nationally on wide-ranging horticulture topics. This presentation will lead to understanding the newest design trends, best-of-the-best plant introductions, and most sustainable of the latest process and practices. How has your garden’s esthetic evolved and where is it headed? How will plants, people and personality affect your design choices?
June 18, 2024 Native Ferns of Garrett County, presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources & Wildlife Technology Program at Garrett College. Kevin will introduce us to the many different native ferns present in our county, their uses, history, and why they should be added to your landscape.
June 15, 2024
Plant Sale
June 18, 2024
Monthly Meeting
Topic TBD, presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources & Wildlife
Technology Program at Garrett College
June 22, 2024
Garden Tour
July 16, 2024
Summer Picnic (Member and Guest Only)
Native Plant Sale
Sang Run State Park Corn Roast, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
September. 19, 2023 Herbs with Many Uses, presented by Ashley Bodkins, Senior Agent Associate, UMD Extension Garrett County and an MLGC Honorary Member. Herbs are often an overlooked addition to our landscape and can serve many purposes. This presentation will focus on easy herbs for companion planting to help reduce pest pressure, encourage beneficial insects, add beauty to your garden, and extra goodness to your food! Specimen plants will be displayed at the meeting. Link to program: Herbs with Many Uses
October 17, 2023 Garrett County’s Black Bears presented by Jonathan Trudeau, Black Bear Project Leader, wildlife & Heritage Service, Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Jonathan will be sharing lots of information about our black bears what you may not know. Specifics about what their diet at different times of the year; results of DNRs reproductive surveys; their complex social hierarchy and range; and why it is up to us to ensure we coexist peacefully.
November 21, 2023 Youghiogheny Wild River Natural Environmental Area presented by John Ford, Deputy Director of Conservation Corps, Maryland Park Service. Beginning in the gently rolling farmlands of southern Garrett County, the Youghiogheny cuts a northward path through some of the most rugged mountain scenery in Maryland before running into Pennsylvania and merging with the Monongahela at McKeesport, Pennsylvania. In 1976 a 21-mile long segment of the Youghiogheny was designated as Maryland's first Wild River. Now a state protected corridor, John will explain how special and unique this river is and why it is protected by law.
January 18, 2024 Woodpeckers of Garrett County presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources & Wildlife Technology Program at Garrett College (11:00 at Garrett College Auditorium). Kevin will tell us about the many different woodpeckers that make Garrett County their home – where they live, what they eat, their favorite habitats, and why they are so much fun to watch during the winter months.
January 25, 2024, Thursday, at 11:00 am, Garrett College
Join us for a special presentation about Maryland’s 5 Million Trees Initiative and how that can benefit you and your property. Katherine Phillips, Tree Planting Specialist, MD DNR Forest Service, and Melissa Nash, MD DNR Forester for Garrett County, will be explaining how the program works.
February 20, 2024 Floriography - The Language of Flowers presented by Mary Costello, Master Gardener of Frederick County. (11:00 am at Garrett College Room 111 in the GEIC Bldg.) Mary’s presentation will cover the history of the use of the language of flowers, the meanings and some of their origins in myth and folklore, some activities to get more familiar with using the so-called “language,” and a list of references.
March 19, 2024 Really Cool Geology, by David Bolton, Hydrogeology Program Chief (retired), Maryland Geological Survey, Maryland Department of Natural Resources. What's beneath our feet? Why does Garrett County look so different from the rest of Maryland? The program will present the geologic history of Garrett County and how it relates to the rest of Maryland. (David is also Mary Lou Kenney’s husband.)
April 11, 2024
Power of Native Plants-Registration required.
April 16, 2024 Native Sedges: Smart Choices for Better Landscapes presented by Shannon Currey, Horticultural Educator at Izel Native Plants. These herbaceous perennials—primarily in the genus Carex—were little known in the past but are getting increased attention for their versatility in the landscape. They shine in mixed plantings and as alternatives to mulch and traditional lawn, especially in shady conditions. You’ll come away knowing which are best adapted to your region and understand how they help build ecologically sound landscapes. We’ll also include a few key grasses for slopes and shady conditions. Awaken your inner “sedge head” as we explore native Carex for your garden.
May 21, 2024 Gardening and More for 2024: Growing New Views of Future Landscapes; presented by Kirk R. Brown, Landscape Designer, Advisor and Horticulturist, Garden Communicator and Traveler, speaks nationally on wide-ranging horticulture topics. This presentation will lead to understanding the newest design trends, best-of-the-best plant introductions, and most sustainable of the latest process and practices. How has your garden’s esthetic evolved and where is it headed? How will plants, people and personality affect your design choices?
June 18, 2024 Native Ferns of Garrett County, presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources & Wildlife Technology Program at Garrett College. Kevin will introduce us to the many different native ferns present in our county, their uses, history, and why they should be added to your landscape.
June 15, 2024
Plant Sale
June 18, 2024
Monthly Meeting
Topic TBD, presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources & Wildlife
Technology Program at Garrett College
June 22, 2024
Garden Tour
July 16, 2024
Summer Picnic (Member and Guest Only)
Past Programs and Events
Sept. 20, 2022
For the Love of Birds, presented by Caroline Blizzard & Julie Turrentine.
In November 2021, photographer Caroline Blizzard and glass artist, Julie
Turrentine, unveiled their collaborative "For the Love of Birds" exhibition in the Garrett
County Arts Council's new $MART ART: Shared Workspace. Over the course of the
exhibition, videographer Mark Stutzman worked with both artists to create a documentary based on their interactive show to enlighten people on how climate change is affecting bird populations. The documentary will be followed by
an artist talk and Q&A session.
For the Love of Birds, presented by Caroline Blizzard & Julie Turrentine.
In November 2021, photographer Caroline Blizzard and glass artist, Julie
Turrentine, unveiled their collaborative "For the Love of Birds" exhibition in the Garrett
County Arts Council's new $MART ART: Shared Workspace. Over the course of the
exhibition, videographer Mark Stutzman worked with both artists to create a documentary based on their interactive show to enlighten people on how climate change is affecting bird populations. The documentary will be followed by
an artist talk and Q&A session.
Oct. 18, 2022
Gardening with Native Woodland Plants, presented by Ian Caton, owner/operator of Wood Thrush
Native Plant Nursery. This presentation is an introduction to gardening with native woodland plants,
which thrive in shade. Some are familiar, others are less well known but deserve attention. Ian will also review some design and installation techniques for both small-scale and large-scale woodland plantings and
thoughts on how to maintain these plantings.
Ian Caton has been the owner/operator of Wood Thrush Native Plant Nursery (formerly Enchanters Garden) since March of 2013. Wood Thrush Native Plants is a nursery specializing in native plants of the Appalachian region including West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and North Carolina. A focus of the nursery is the introduction of new and rare native plants that are little known or under-appreciated in the nursery trade. Previously Ian had been an employee of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates (a landscape firm specializing in the use and promotion of native plants in landscaping) since 2001 and has an ongoing relationship with the firm and its educational arm: “The New Directions in the Landscape (NDAL)” program.
Nov. 15, 2022
Herb Farm Development Using Permaculture Practices, presented by Alea McClintock-Donahue of
Yorkie Acres Farms in Friendsville, MD. Alea will be discussing plans for the planting of the herb farm at their newly purchased property. She will be sharing some design plans and will focus on discussing garden design practices with a permaculture focus and the benefits of this style of gardening and farming practice.
December 13, 2022
Holiday Party
(Member and invited guest only)
Zoom meetings require pre-registration. Once registered, you will receive a link to log in 15 minutes before the program starts. Please click on Contact Us for more information.
January 5, 2023
Birds of Garrett County – The Species You’re Especially Likely to See or Hear, presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program at Garrett College. Believe it or not, over 300 species of birds have been observed in Garrett County – some commonly and others only rarely; some in the winter, some during migration, some during the summer, and some year-round. Kevin will give an introduction to some of the more frequently seen and heard species we can encounter in the forests, fields, lakes, and wetlands of our home turf. (This program will be held at Garrett College at 10:30 am, weather permitting,
otherwise it will be presented via Zoom.)
February 21, 2023
Garden Gems at New Germany, presented by Liz McDowell, Coordinator, Western Mountains
Chapter of Maryland Native Plant Society. The native plant garden at New Germany State Park is home to many of the botanical gems found in Mountain Maryland. Though each species is clearly labeled with its common and scientific name, there’s much more to know! Discover their critical importance to our region’s natural heritage and sense of place. (This program will be held at Garrett College at 10:30 am, weather permitting,
otherwise it will be presented via Zoom.)
March 21, 2023
Forest Therapy presented by Kathleen Gibbs, MLGC member. This is the practice of spending time in natural environments for their beneficial health effects. An outgrowth of the Japanese practice of "shInrin-yoku" (“forest bathing”), this presentation will outline the practice of forest therapy, describe studies that support its beneficial health effects, and suggest activities for garden clubs that align with this activity.
April 18, 2023
Barbara Sanders, Horticulture Committee Co-Chair, will demonstrate the division and potting of perennial plants that can then be donated to the MLGC annual plant sale. Barbara will bring several different clumps of perennial flowers to show us how to divide them and the best way to pot them for sale.
May 16, 2023
Ikebana Floral Demonstration presented by Anna O’Kelly, president of Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland. Ikebana is the centuries-old Japanese art of flower arranging. The practice, which roughly translated to “making flowers come alive,” uses carefully selected flowers, greenery, and other flora to convey a specific feeling or emotion to an observer, just as a painting or sculpture might.
June 10, 2023
MLGC Plant Sale 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Held in the outdoor area adjacent to the Garrett County Historical Museum, 107 South Second Street, in Oakland.
June 1, 2023
Orientation for New Officers and Committee Chairs 11:00 a.m. Uno's (downstairs)
June 20, 2023
Monthly Meeting-Installation of officers and awards
June 24, 2023
MLGC Country Gardens Tour 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
July 18, 2023
Summer Picnic- 6:00 p.m. Deep Creek Lake State Park, Tamarack Shelter
(Member and invited guest only)
Gardening with Native Woodland Plants, presented by Ian Caton, owner/operator of Wood Thrush
Native Plant Nursery. This presentation is an introduction to gardening with native woodland plants,
which thrive in shade. Some are familiar, others are less well known but deserve attention. Ian will also review some design and installation techniques for both small-scale and large-scale woodland plantings and
thoughts on how to maintain these plantings.
Ian Caton has been the owner/operator of Wood Thrush Native Plant Nursery (formerly Enchanters Garden) since March of 2013. Wood Thrush Native Plants is a nursery specializing in native plants of the Appalachian region including West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and North Carolina. A focus of the nursery is the introduction of new and rare native plants that are little known or under-appreciated in the nursery trade. Previously Ian had been an employee of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates (a landscape firm specializing in the use and promotion of native plants in landscaping) since 2001 and has an ongoing relationship with the firm and its educational arm: “The New Directions in the Landscape (NDAL)” program.
Nov. 15, 2022
Herb Farm Development Using Permaculture Practices, presented by Alea McClintock-Donahue of
Yorkie Acres Farms in Friendsville, MD. Alea will be discussing plans for the planting of the herb farm at their newly purchased property. She will be sharing some design plans and will focus on discussing garden design practices with a permaculture focus and the benefits of this style of gardening and farming practice.
December 13, 2022
Holiday Party
(Member and invited guest only)
Zoom meetings require pre-registration. Once registered, you will receive a link to log in 15 minutes before the program starts. Please click on Contact Us for more information.
January 5, 2023
Birds of Garrett County – The Species You’re Especially Likely to See or Hear, presented by Kevin Dodge, Director of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program at Garrett College. Believe it or not, over 300 species of birds have been observed in Garrett County – some commonly and others only rarely; some in the winter, some during migration, some during the summer, and some year-round. Kevin will give an introduction to some of the more frequently seen and heard species we can encounter in the forests, fields, lakes, and wetlands of our home turf. (This program will be held at Garrett College at 10:30 am, weather permitting,
otherwise it will be presented via Zoom.)
February 21, 2023
Garden Gems at New Germany, presented by Liz McDowell, Coordinator, Western Mountains
Chapter of Maryland Native Plant Society. The native plant garden at New Germany State Park is home to many of the botanical gems found in Mountain Maryland. Though each species is clearly labeled with its common and scientific name, there’s much more to know! Discover their critical importance to our region’s natural heritage and sense of place. (This program will be held at Garrett College at 10:30 am, weather permitting,
otherwise it will be presented via Zoom.)
March 21, 2023
Forest Therapy presented by Kathleen Gibbs, MLGC member. This is the practice of spending time in natural environments for their beneficial health effects. An outgrowth of the Japanese practice of "shInrin-yoku" (“forest bathing”), this presentation will outline the practice of forest therapy, describe studies that support its beneficial health effects, and suggest activities for garden clubs that align with this activity.
April 18, 2023
Barbara Sanders, Horticulture Committee Co-Chair, will demonstrate the division and potting of perennial plants that can then be donated to the MLGC annual plant sale. Barbara will bring several different clumps of perennial flowers to show us how to divide them and the best way to pot them for sale.
May 16, 2023
Ikebana Floral Demonstration presented by Anna O’Kelly, president of Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland. Ikebana is the centuries-old Japanese art of flower arranging. The practice, which roughly translated to “making flowers come alive,” uses carefully selected flowers, greenery, and other flora to convey a specific feeling or emotion to an observer, just as a painting or sculpture might.
June 10, 2023
MLGC Plant Sale 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Held in the outdoor area adjacent to the Garrett County Historical Museum, 107 South Second Street, in Oakland.
June 1, 2023
Orientation for New Officers and Committee Chairs 11:00 a.m. Uno's (downstairs)
June 20, 2023
Monthly Meeting-Installation of officers and awards
June 24, 2023
MLGC Country Gardens Tour 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
July 18, 2023
Summer Picnic- 6:00 p.m. Deep Creek Lake State Park, Tamarack Shelter
(Member and invited guest only)
September 9, 2021 11:00
Blue Star Memorial Dedication
September 21, 2021
This is a great time of year to do the Seed Saving/Garden Clean Up talk. Mainly from flowers/native plants, etc. We will have some seeds to share and let folks make their own seed packets. Ashley Bodkins will be leading this informative and fun program. Ashley is the Senior Agent Associate- Environmental and Natural Resources at the University of Maryland Extension- Garrett County Office. She also partners with us for our garden tour and frequently helps at our youth gardening projects.
October 19, 2021
The Benefits of Plants and Herbs for Health & Wellness, presented by Alea McClintock-Donahue. Alea’s presentation will provide an introduction to Yorkie Acres Farm and Herbal Earth Apothecary at Yorkie Acres farm located in Friendsville, Maryland. This presentation will discuss Alea’s passion and focus on natural, holistic and herbal health and wellness practices. She will discuss her range of herbal products and services that are provided on the farm with some discussion of the benefits of plants and herbs for health and wellness. She hopes to share her knowledge and passion for the medicinal and healing power of plants and the Earth with you. Alea will also be bringing some of her handcrafted herbal products that will be available for viewing and purchase.
Alea McClintock-Donahue is a wife, mother of two, a doctor of nursing practice with 16 years of experience in the medical field as a nurse and nurse practitioner, the owner of Yorkie Acres Farm and Herbal Earth Apothecary at Yorkie Acres Farm located just outside of Friendsville, Md. Her passion is herbal and natural holistic health and wellness, which is the focus of their farm ventures. She has a passion for helping people, animals and the planet with a focus on holistic wellness. Her goal is to connect farm visitors and clients to nature and the Earth, as well as help them achieve physical and mental wellness and balance.
November 16, 2021 (Zoom)
Kathleen Gibbs will present “Homegrown National Park”. A survey of the work of Doug Tallamy, an Entomology professor at the University of Delaware. Dr. Tallamy has studied native plant landscaping for over twenty years and proposes new ways of looking at our landscaping and gardening habits in order to foster small, local ecological islands and link them into a nationwide park system.
November 30, 2021 10:30 am (Via Zoom)
Susie Middleton presents Williamsburg Holiday Design
Over the years the town of Williamsburg has developed a unique style of decorating for the Holidays. What
is it? Think of door toppers, wreaths, swags and roping embellished with fruits, vegetables,
dried flowers and herbs.
This presentation will explain the history and provide examples of the enormous variety of materials used. Participants will receive handouts that give directions for making two of the best known designs
(1) the apple tree and (2) the door topper. Whether you embrace this style or not you are
sure to come up with ideas to brighten your homes for the holidays.
December 14, 2021 Holiday Party
(Members and invited guest only)
January 18, 2022, 10:30 am (Via Zoom)
Kevin Dodge, director of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program at Garrett College, will present Unique Amphibians and Reptiles of Western Maryland.
February 8, 2022, 10:30 am (Via Zoom)
Claire Jones, Professional Horticulturists and landscape designer, and owner of Claire Jones Landscapes, will present Trade Secrets: Tips to Great Floral Arrangements from your Garden or Grocery Store.
March 15, 2022, 10:30 am
Brian Branthoover of Halian & Associates Landscaping will present Trends in Hardscaping for Beauty and the Environment. Brian is considered an expert in his field with over 30 years of experience in the industry, an impressive education in landscape design/construction, and a strong reputation for innovative landscape design.
April 19, 2022, 10:30 am
Kathleen Gibbs, MLGC member, will present Forest Therapy, also known as "Forest Bathing" and "Nature Immersion". This is the practice of spending time in natural environments for their beneficial health effects. An outgrowth of the Japanese practice of "shInrin-yoku" (Literally: 'forest bathing'), this presentation will outline the practice of forest therapy, describe studies that support its beneficial health effects and suggest activities for garden clubs that align with this activity.
May 17, 2022 General Meeting
Floristic Disjunction. A project of West Virginia Botanic Garden
Phil Cole, site Manager of the West Virginia Botanic Gardens in Morgantown will be talking to us about how the botanic garden teamed up with the City of Morgantown to design a small park in Xuzhou, China which was Morgantown's sister city last year. They incorporated the idea of 'floristic disjunction" which is the unique phenomenon that eastern US and east china share a similar genera of plants (which only occurs in those two regions of the globe) as a theme to the overall design. Phil will have lot of photos from China of the finished project and is excited to share the theory of its design, the floristic disjunction idea driving plant selection. Phil is a graduate of the Landscape Architecture Program at WVU and practiced in a design firm in Ohio for over 10 years before moving to Morgantown. Phil splits his time between being site manager at the West Virginia Botanic Garden and Greenscapes, a design/build company in McHenry, MD.
June 4, 2022 – 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
MLGC Perennial Plant Sale to be held in the outdoor area adjacent to the Garrett County Historical Museum
107 South Second Street, in Oakland.
June 21, 2022 General Meeting
Nancy Lawson is the author of The Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife, a habitat consultant, and a national speaker on garden ecology. She founded Humane Gardener to pioneer creative planting strategies and other animal-friendly landscaping methods. Lawson’s presentations at diverse venues—from national wildlife refuges to local wildflower preserves—have inspired even seasoned horticulturists and wildlife experts to look at their landscapes in a new way. Certified as a Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional and master naturalist, she partners with conservation and animal advocacy organizations in central Maryland. Her book and garden have been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and other media outlets.
Nancy’s presentation: Why do we call some insects “beneficial” while others are “pests”? Why are some plants considered “desirable” while others are “weeds”? In her myth-busting talk, learn how common growing methods divide the natural world into false dichotomies and perpetuate misperceptions about the wild species living among us. Discover practical ways to put humane gardening philosophies into action by protecting wild nurseries of animals large and small, eliminating unintended hazards to wildlife, nurturing plants that provide food and shelter, and humanely resolving conflicts with mammals and other commonly misunderstood creatures.
June 25, 2022 – 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
MLGC Country Gardens Tour
July 19, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
(Members and invited guest only)
MLGC Summer Picnic at Deep Creek Yacht Club Pavilion in Turkey Neck
Blue Star Memorial Dedication
September 21, 2021
This is a great time of year to do the Seed Saving/Garden Clean Up talk. Mainly from flowers/native plants, etc. We will have some seeds to share and let folks make their own seed packets. Ashley Bodkins will be leading this informative and fun program. Ashley is the Senior Agent Associate- Environmental and Natural Resources at the University of Maryland Extension- Garrett County Office. She also partners with us for our garden tour and frequently helps at our youth gardening projects.
October 19, 2021
The Benefits of Plants and Herbs for Health & Wellness, presented by Alea McClintock-Donahue. Alea’s presentation will provide an introduction to Yorkie Acres Farm and Herbal Earth Apothecary at Yorkie Acres farm located in Friendsville, Maryland. This presentation will discuss Alea’s passion and focus on natural, holistic and herbal health and wellness practices. She will discuss her range of herbal products and services that are provided on the farm with some discussion of the benefits of plants and herbs for health and wellness. She hopes to share her knowledge and passion for the medicinal and healing power of plants and the Earth with you. Alea will also be bringing some of her handcrafted herbal products that will be available for viewing and purchase.
Alea McClintock-Donahue is a wife, mother of two, a doctor of nursing practice with 16 years of experience in the medical field as a nurse and nurse practitioner, the owner of Yorkie Acres Farm and Herbal Earth Apothecary at Yorkie Acres Farm located just outside of Friendsville, Md. Her passion is herbal and natural holistic health and wellness, which is the focus of their farm ventures. She has a passion for helping people, animals and the planet with a focus on holistic wellness. Her goal is to connect farm visitors and clients to nature and the Earth, as well as help them achieve physical and mental wellness and balance.
November 16, 2021 (Zoom)
Kathleen Gibbs will present “Homegrown National Park”. A survey of the work of Doug Tallamy, an Entomology professor at the University of Delaware. Dr. Tallamy has studied native plant landscaping for over twenty years and proposes new ways of looking at our landscaping and gardening habits in order to foster small, local ecological islands and link them into a nationwide park system.
November 30, 2021 10:30 am (Via Zoom)
Susie Middleton presents Williamsburg Holiday Design
Over the years the town of Williamsburg has developed a unique style of decorating for the Holidays. What
is it? Think of door toppers, wreaths, swags and roping embellished with fruits, vegetables,
dried flowers and herbs.
This presentation will explain the history and provide examples of the enormous variety of materials used. Participants will receive handouts that give directions for making two of the best known designs
(1) the apple tree and (2) the door topper. Whether you embrace this style or not you are
sure to come up with ideas to brighten your homes for the holidays.
December 14, 2021 Holiday Party
(Members and invited guest only)
January 18, 2022, 10:30 am (Via Zoom)
Kevin Dodge, director of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Technology program at Garrett College, will present Unique Amphibians and Reptiles of Western Maryland.
February 8, 2022, 10:30 am (Via Zoom)
Claire Jones, Professional Horticulturists and landscape designer, and owner of Claire Jones Landscapes, will present Trade Secrets: Tips to Great Floral Arrangements from your Garden or Grocery Store.
March 15, 2022, 10:30 am
Brian Branthoover of Halian & Associates Landscaping will present Trends in Hardscaping for Beauty and the Environment. Brian is considered an expert in his field with over 30 years of experience in the industry, an impressive education in landscape design/construction, and a strong reputation for innovative landscape design.
April 19, 2022, 10:30 am
Kathleen Gibbs, MLGC member, will present Forest Therapy, also known as "Forest Bathing" and "Nature Immersion". This is the practice of spending time in natural environments for their beneficial health effects. An outgrowth of the Japanese practice of "shInrin-yoku" (Literally: 'forest bathing'), this presentation will outline the practice of forest therapy, describe studies that support its beneficial health effects and suggest activities for garden clubs that align with this activity.
May 17, 2022 General Meeting
Floristic Disjunction. A project of West Virginia Botanic Garden
Phil Cole, site Manager of the West Virginia Botanic Gardens in Morgantown will be talking to us about how the botanic garden teamed up with the City of Morgantown to design a small park in Xuzhou, China which was Morgantown's sister city last year. They incorporated the idea of 'floristic disjunction" which is the unique phenomenon that eastern US and east china share a similar genera of plants (which only occurs in those two regions of the globe) as a theme to the overall design. Phil will have lot of photos from China of the finished project and is excited to share the theory of its design, the floristic disjunction idea driving plant selection. Phil is a graduate of the Landscape Architecture Program at WVU and practiced in a design firm in Ohio for over 10 years before moving to Morgantown. Phil splits his time between being site manager at the West Virginia Botanic Garden and Greenscapes, a design/build company in McHenry, MD.
June 4, 2022 – 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
MLGC Perennial Plant Sale to be held in the outdoor area adjacent to the Garrett County Historical Museum
107 South Second Street, in Oakland.
June 21, 2022 General Meeting
Nancy Lawson is the author of The Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife, a habitat consultant, and a national speaker on garden ecology. She founded Humane Gardener to pioneer creative planting strategies and other animal-friendly landscaping methods. Lawson’s presentations at diverse venues—from national wildlife refuges to local wildflower preserves—have inspired even seasoned horticulturists and wildlife experts to look at their landscapes in a new way. Certified as a Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional and master naturalist, she partners with conservation and animal advocacy organizations in central Maryland. Her book and garden have been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and other media outlets.
Nancy’s presentation: Why do we call some insects “beneficial” while others are “pests”? Why are some plants considered “desirable” while others are “weeds”? In her myth-busting talk, learn how common growing methods divide the natural world into false dichotomies and perpetuate misperceptions about the wild species living among us. Discover practical ways to put humane gardening philosophies into action by protecting wild nurseries of animals large and small, eliminating unintended hazards to wildlife, nurturing plants that provide food and shelter, and humanely resolving conflicts with mammals and other commonly misunderstood creatures.
June 25, 2022 – 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
MLGC Country Gardens Tour
July 19, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
(Members and invited guest only)
MLGC Summer Picnic at Deep Creek Yacht Club Pavilion in Turkey Neck