A combined presentation by a Michigan State University Extension Educator whose work focuses on insects and pollinators, and a local Master Gardener and founder of two Traverse City pollinator gardens will speak at the June 4 meeting of the Master Gardener Association of Northwest Michigan.  The meeting will be held at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road. Refreshments will be served at 6 and the program will start at 6:30 p.m.

Starting off the evening is Dr. Nathaniel “Nate” Walton, an MSUE entomologist.  Nate will talk about common pollinators that you may see in a garden, and how planting a pollinator garden can support them.  His talk will be followed by Barbara Backus, founder and project leader for two local pollinator garden projects.

Dr. Walton, is an MSUE entomologist with a passion for pollinators, gardening and local food. He is the Consumer Horticulture Program Instructor for MSU Extension in Leelanau County and the Master Gardener Coordinator for Leelanau, Benzie, and Grand Traverse Counties. He enjoys teaching adults and youth of all ages on subjects such as plant pathogens, environmental stewardship and integrated pest management. He received his PhD from MSU.

 “Nate’s passion for pollinators and knowledge of entomology make this a “can’t miss” program for anyone who wants to support pollinators in their garden.” says Michele Worden, President of the Master Gardener Association of Northwest Michigan. “And Barbara’s experience and expertise can help gardeners launch their own pollinator garden projects.”

Barbara Backus has been an Extension Master Gardener volunteer since 2014.  Her focus areas are in native plants and landscape design.  She is the founder and project leader of two public pollinator garden projects, one at Hull Park and one at Clinch Park.   She will talk about how she started the gardens in partnership with the City of Traverse City, plant selections and project management as well as new pollinator garden project opportunities.