The Sierra Club York River Group held an in-person pollinator program on Thursday, May 22, 2025. We had delicious "Save the Butterflies" cake thanks to Ed Ashley.  Our distinguished presenters from Fort Monroe were Jaci Wells, Superintendent of Fort Monroe National Monument and Ranger Aaron Firth.  Fort Monroe Authority CEO Scott Martin sent in his absence some highlights that were read at the program.  Ranger Firth and staff do nature tours that you can learn about at https://fortmonroe.org/plan-your-visit/.

        Our main speaker was Lori Cash, who gave an excellent presentation on butterflies.  She emphasized that they do need our help.  She explained the pollinator garden she keeps at her home in Hampton and showed photos she took of different stages of the monarch life cycle.  Take a look at her work on her attractive and expansive website: https://loriacash.com.  Lori's enthusiasm caring for the butterflies and pollinators is contagious and will inspire others to plant some milkweed or find other ways to help the populations that are at risk.

        Several other attendees at the event have had experience with pollinator gardens, including Jane Frigo with the Hampton Roads Bird Club, and Janet Hojje.  Janet brought some photos of her garden and later shared a website for ordering milkweed and other plants from a nursery she recommends: https://www.prairiemoon.com/monarch-favorites/.

        It was good to see our members and friends in person!