AHS LIVE: Firewise Gardening
with Rachel Werling, botanist, Native Plant Society of Oregon
Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 7-8 p.m. ET
Virtual
$15 AHS members/$20 non-members
Join botanist Rachel Werling for an insightful session on creating fire-adapted landscapes that also support native biodiversity. This presentation will explore the fundamentals of wildfire behavior in relation to the Home Ignition Zone and demonstrate how thoughtful plant choices—including native species—can serve as allies during wildfire events. You’ll learn how to evaluate plant traits for fire resilience, select appropriate species for your region, and source native plants for your landscape. The session will also highlight the ecological benefits of native plants for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Fall and early winter are ideal times for planting many of these species—come away with practical tips to get started.
Rachel Werling is a professional botanist and board member of the Native Plant Society of Oregon. She formerly led Oregon State University Extension’s Land Steward Program, where she developed wildfire preparedness workshops and resources for landowners. Her materials include an award-winning curriculum, Fostering Stewardship: A How-to Guide for Trainers, and an online Land Steward course that reached participants beyond Oregon to five states, Canadian provinces, and Costa Rica. Werling served in the Peace Corps in Ecuador, and lived and worked in Oaxaca, Mexico for many years. She has worked as a field biologist with birds, mammals, riparian systems, and plants. Werling holds a MS in Plant Biology from Arizona State University and a BS in biology from Cal Poly Humboldt.