EARTH Center Offers Workshop on Attracting Birds and Butterflies

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County invites you to participate in a free workshop on creating pollinator-friendly habitats.

Attracting Birds & Butterflies to your Garden takes place on Sunday, July 19 at 11 a.m. at the EARTH Center located in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Ave., South Brunswick. This practical workshop is designed for the beginner or intermediate gardener, looking to minimize environmental impact.

“Attracting Birds & Butterflies” will teach participants about plants and features that can be added to a backyard, making it more desirable to birds and butterflies.

Many experts believe that the public can be of great help in slowing the current decline of Monarch butterfly populations, due to eradiation of Milkweed, its larvae’s host plant. Attendees will learn the value of native plants for attracting wildlife as well as cutting down on chemical inputs.

“The EARTH Center helps Middlesex County offer educational programs, like this one, to its residents, knowing that a personal hobby or interest has the potential to have a positive impact for our communities and on our environment,” said Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, Chair of the Business Development and Education committee.

This workshop is free but registration is required. Please call 732-398-5262 to register. No “walk-ins” will be permitted.

Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios said: “Every day, it seems we’re reminded of how important it is to take care of our planet…and that includes the animals and people living here, too. The Board of Chosen Freeholders and I are proud to support the efforts of our residents and communities to do just that, through programs and services that empower those who take advantage of them to make a difference.”

Even if you can’t visit the EARTH Center this season, you can still get great gardening tips by calling the Master Gardner Helpline at 732-398-5220.

Rutgers Cooperative Extension educational programs are offered to all without regard to race, religion, color, age, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.

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