We’re exploring all over the Midlands and beyond this spring to find spring beauty and diversity. Read on and sign up!
Field Trip: Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve
March 14, 2026, with Herrick Brown REGISTER HERE
Herrick Brown will lead us through this historical and environmental preserve located just outside Columbia.
Field Trip: Stevens Creek
March 28, 2026 REGISTER HERE
Explore Stevens Creek with fellow native plant devotees. Worthy of being visited once a month to see the progression of the seasons through the many varied plants found here, we will catch it at a good time.
Field Trip: Audubon Beidler Forest Sanctuary
April 4, 2026. REGISTER HERE
On a guided tour along the boardwalk, we’ll stroll past 1000-year-old trees and abounding native wildlife in this pristine sanctuary. We’ll look for spring bloomers like Trilliums, Atamasco Lilies, and Swamp Azaleas. These plant species only bloom for a short window of time before the tree canopy fills in. This boardwalk trail is ADA compliant, with rest areas and rain shelters along the way, accessible and appropriate for all ages.
City of Columbia Earth Day
April 18, 2026, 9 am – 1 pm
Washington & Main St., Columbia, SC
It’s a party! Come out to Soda City and find us with fellow conservation groups celebrating Earth Day, and Columbia’s first year as a Bee City!
Field Trip: Botanical Garden at Georgia Southern University
April 18, 2026 REGISTER HERE
Following up on Todd Beasley’s presentation to our chapter in January, we will get to see the botanical gardens in their prime: native plant landscapes, historic sites, and unique ecological habitats that reflect the biodiversity and agricultural heritage of the Southeastern Coastal Plain.
Field Trip: Chestnut Ridge Heritage Preserve
April 25, 2026, with Dan Whitten REGISTER HERE
It’s SO worth the trip upstate to visit this haven for spring wildflowers like bloodroot, Hepatica, Trillium species, various violets, plus iconic species like Carolina Rhododendron, pawpaw, and yes, living American chestnut. Dan is an excellent guide, having explored here for years.
Field Trip: Aiken Gopher Tortoise Heritage Preserve
May 23, 2026, with Steve Bennett REGISTER HERE
