Celebrating Turkeys, Native Plants, and Aldo Leopold

Last week, I visited the UW-Madison Arboretum; it surprisingly turned out to be great day to stop by. Children's programs were in progress, so it was fun to see the kids interacting with the critters and learning about the plants. The turkeys, in particular, seemed "excited" about the youthful activity.

I regularly volunteer at the Arb, but is was nice to wander around, observe, and enjoy at my own pace. Many plants in the Native Plant Garden were blooming, budding, and thriving after plentiful rain and sun, including:

Spiderwort



White Wild Indigo



Canada Anemone





Wild Roses



Field Oval Sedge



Smooth Phlox



Common Milkweed



Lead Plant



Oxeye Sunflower



Also, I had time to observe and enjoy the "Preserve" art installation, near the Arboretum Visitor Center. If you live in or near Madison, or plan a visit, check out the display.

It draws inspiration from Aldo Leopold, author of A Sand County Almanac, and research director for the Arboretum for 15 years, from 1933-1948.



The display showcases 1,000 documented species, demonstrating local ecological richness while inspiring conservation action and environmental stewardship.



The display is beautiful and educational.

Visitors can "sit awhile" inside the enclosure, on comfortably arranged Leopold benches. "Preserve" is definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. It will be in place through September 27, 2025.

Next up: more coverage of the Memphis Garden Fling. It was a stunner!