MEMBERSHIP DONATE
AN EASTERN SHORE CHAPTER EVENT.
Leaders: Leslie Cario and Cristina Niciporciukas Location: Adkins Arboretum
Visit the early‑succession North Meadow at Adkins Arboretum, a habitat alive with shifting light, tall grasses, and emerging wildflowers. Early‑succession meadows are young, fast‑changing habitats created after disturbance. They shift constantly, offering a landscape in motion. Adkins North Meadow is a biodiversity hotspot, packed with pollinating insects and the birds that depend on them. We will also appreciate Overcup Oaks (Quercus lyrata) upclose—the oak species that helped spark the Arboretum’s founding vision.
Along the way, we will explore Nestled in Nature, a peaceful gathering space designed by Campion Hruby Landscape Architects with artistic contributions from ceramicist Mike Pugh and craftsman Peter Battcock.
The North Meadow will soon be home to Woodhenge, a developing public art installation by Vicco von Voss. Crafted from six slabs of a lightning‑struck tree, Woodhenge will blend art, nature, and community. Check the prototype at the Visitor Center after the walk.
Plants we will look for
After the walk… Rhythm & Roots!
Stick around for Rhythm & Roots, Adkins’ afternoon beer fest—good music, good brews, and the perfect way to round out a day of orchids, oaks, and art. Rhythm & Roots runs from 1 to 4 pm, so you can start celebrating as soon as the walk ends.
Note: Rhythm & Roots has a separate fee. Please check the Adkins Arboretum website for details.
Leader's brief bios: Leslie Cario is the Horticulture and Natural Lands Director at Adkins Arboretum. Cristina Niciporciukas is the Eastern Shore MNPS Chapter Chair.
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Limited to 12 people.
The walk is a FREE EVENT. Check the Adkins website for details and fees on Rhythm and Roots. https://adkins.donorshops.com/product/randr26/rhythm-roots-september-26-2026
For additional information: Please reach out to Cristina Niciporciukas at cnicipo71@outlook.com or 973-216-5216
Bring: Please bring hat, water and snacks. Use insect/tick repellant. We will mostly follow well maintained paths but even those can have ticks.
Cancellation Policy: Event will proceed in drizzle but be cancelled if heavy rain, thunderstorm or extreme heat; cancellation will be emailed at least 3 hours before meeting time.
©Maryland Native Plant Society PO Box 4877, Silver Spring, MD 20914MNPS is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization incorporated in Maryland.
