In this talk Mathis Natvik will discuss the design, installation, and long-term management of native plant gardens in Calgary. Thursday, April 16 | In-person at the Fish Creek Environmental Learning Centre and Online on Zoom 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Gardening with Alberta Native Plants In this talk Mathis will discuss the design, installation, and long-term management of native plant gardens in Calgary. Southern Alberta ecosystems are full of interesting plants that can be used to create beautiful gardens that support pollinators, birds and other wildlife in your own yard. Topics that Mathis will cover will include: 1. Planning your garden layout and how to create different habitat zones (assessing light conditions, soil preparation, etc.) 2. Plant Selection 3. Planting Design (nice plant combinations that look great) 4. Attracting Wildlife (creating features for wildlife) 5. Sourcing and establishing plants (local nurseries, plant rescues, propagating your own plants!). 6. Long-term Management (weeding needs, watering approaches, when to cut down old stalks, etc.) About the Presenter Mathis Natvik is a restoration ecologist with just over 30 years of experience restoring grassland, wetland, and woodland ecosystems. His experience also includes innovative use of native plants in the urban environment including roadside wildflower meadows, green roofs, and rain gardens. Mathis has operated a private consulting firm (Natvik Design Inc) since 2000 and provided services to a variety of clients including municipalities, provincial government, NGOs, and private landowners (see www.roofgarden.ca for examples of his work). He also teaches ecological restoration at the University of Calgary in the School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape.