Protecting Threatened and Misunderstood Species and Their Habitat
Partner Highlight: Weiler Woods for Wildlife
In our early days of planning the Gardening for Life Celebration, one goal we were set on achieving was to make the March 4th event a free community event. That is no small task when just a few of the moving parts included bringing a world-renowned conservationist to town, hosting 750 attendees, coordinating educational exhibits and so much more. With all of this in mind, we knew we would have to rely on community Partners to pull this off.
One of the very first community organizations to enthusiastically jump on board with support was Weiler Woods for Wildlife. Weiler Woods for Wildlife is the husband and wife team of Dale Weiler and Loti Woods, along with their dedicated Board of Directors, volunteers and supporters. Their mission: “to inspire folks to become champions for wildlife's underdogs, especially the endangered, using art & education.”
When they learned about what the GFLP team were up to and that we were bringing one of their favorite authors and conservation heros, Doug Tallamy, to town they asked, how can we help?
While their mission is directly related to wildlife, they know all too well that nurturing healthy habitat is foundational to supporting threatened species. On their four acre property they put that belief into practice. From removing a host of invasive species like ivy, nandina and privet to reintroducing countless native plant species, to providing bird and bat nesting boxes and watering stations, they take the role of stewardship seriously.
In many ways, Tallamy’s teachings have influenced and inspired them. According to Loti, “Doug Tallamy has taught us so much about the connections of wildlife and native plants through his webinars. To hear him in person will be exciting!”
The priority conservation project that Weiler Woods for Wildlife is currently dedicated to is building awareness about America’s most highly endangered wild animal, America’s red wolf. In addition, educational outreach focuses on nature’s underdog species, those that are commonly misunderstood. Through school programs, a traveling photography exhibit and more they are promoting greater understanding. Their motto, “The more we learn about and come to love a species the greater our commitment is to protect it.”
In addition to educational programs, they are using art to expand their conservation impact. Art teaches and inspires and too, can serve as a powerful way to fundraise for important causes. Dale Weiler is a renowned conservation sculptor who uses stone as his medium. His sculptures are on display throughout the country in museums, zoos and private collections including the NC Zoo, the WNC Nature Center and Brookgreen Gardens. While their Art for Wildlife program began with Dale’s masterful pieces, it has expanded to include other international artists whose work can be experienced through community murals, at photography exhibits, on canvas and more.
The GFLP team is tremendously inspired by the work that Loti and Dale are doing and we are proud to have them as Partners in this community initiative. The Gardening for Life Celebration is happening March 4th, 2023 with renowned conservationist Doug Tallamy, educational exhibits and more. This is a free community event, however you must R.S.V.P to reserve your seat.
Learn more:
How to become a GFLP Partner
About Doug Tallamy
Discover resources on native plants, invasive species and more