In this issue:

• Annual Photo Contest OPEN!
• Invasives Cost Share OPEN
• Indiana's Hidden Spring Gem: Ephemeral Wildflowers
• 4 Reasons to Have Your Soil Tested
• Shade Gardens: What You Need to Know
• Pleasant Street Project Updates
• Native Replacements for Invasive Honeysuckles
• 2024 Annual Meeting Recap

Indiana's Hidden Spring Gems: Ephemeral Wildflowers

In the heart of Hamilton County’s woodlands, a quiet transformation begins as spring sets in. Quickly, the forest floor is dotted with a kaleidoscope of colors as native wildflowers sprout and bloom in various shades of blues, yellows, pinks, and whites. Some of the most sought-after forest-dwelling wildflowers are the spring ephemerals – plants with a brief but dazzling moment in the spotlight. 

4 Reasons to Have Your Soil Tested

A soil test is a process by which elements measured for their "plant available" content within the sample. The quantity of available nutrients in the sample determines the amount of fertilizer or other soil amendments that are recommended. A soil test also measures soil pH, organic matter, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). These analyses indicate whether lime, elemental sulfur, or iron is needed and, if so, how much to apply.  

Pleasant Street Project Updates

The City of Noblesville is modifying Pleasant Street to allow for city growth and to improve mobility in the future. This project includes new roundabouts, widening of streets, building and tree removal, and bridge construction. Here are 5 things to know about the project:

Native Replacements for Invasive Honeysuckles

Planted for its ability to grow thick living fences, invasive bush honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.) are one of the most common invasive species found in Hamilton County. Chances are, no matter where you are in the county, either you or your neighbors have this ecosystem-altering invasive plant. Honeysuckle spreads rapidly in both woodland environments and in our backyards, reducing biodiversity by pushing out native plants that provide the food and shelter needed for native wildlife. Roughly 85% of Indiana’s forestland is privately owned, so it is up to us as citizens to take charge and become stewards of our land.  

2024 Annual Meeting Recap

The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District held their Annual Meeting on February 8th at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds. Highlights from the District’s 2023 work were shared by David Bradway, Conservation Administrator. The SWCD recognized Karen La Mere with the outstanding Natural Resources Educator Award for her work with the Indiana Master Naturalist Program....