In this issue:

• Annual Meeting Save the Date
• Tree Sale Summary
• Winter Plant Identification
• Going Bare is Out, Covering Up is In
• So What to do With All Those Fall Leaves
• Winterizing Your Rain Barrel
• Effective Herbicide Application 4
• Indiana Pollinator Stewardship Class Offered
• Thank You Warren!
• Volunteer Position Spotlight

Winter Plant Identification

No Leaves? No problem! With a little bit of practice you, too can identify trees and shrubs throughout the winter even without leaves. Winter plant identification offers a fresh way to explore familiar landscapes, focusing on subtle details like structure and texture rather than leafy foliage.

With a field guide and patience, you can uncover Indiana’s subtle winter beauty through the quiet art of plant identification.

Going Bare is Out, Covering up is In

​Cooler weather is fast approaching, which means it is time to look ahead in your gardens. Fall is a perfect time to assess your mulch needs in the landscape and gardens. Bare soil is OUT. Covered soil in IN. Do you have at least 2-3 inches of mulch around your plants to help them survive the freeze/thaw cycles of our Midwest winters? Contrary to what many people think of when they hear the word mulch, woodchips are not the only type of mulch...

Winterizing Your Rain Barrel

Cold weather is here, which means it is time to winterize your rain barrel to protect it from damage that can occur after a hard freeze. The steps to proper winterization of rain barrels depends on the type of barrel and the set-up. Use the steps in this article to guide you through the winterization process.

The Dos and Don'ts of Safe and Effective Herbicide Application: Part 4

Pesticide and herbicide applications play an important role in managing pests and maintaining plant health. However, improper application can result in off-target impacts—where chemicals drift or move to unintended areas, harming non-target plants, wildlife, and even human health. By using safe application methods and effective spray techniques, we can minimize these risks while achieving optimal results. The following guidelines and considerations will help make your next herbicide application a success.

Indiana Pollinator Steward Certification Class Offered

The Pollinator Steward Certification (PSC) program, offered by Pollinator Partnership, empowers people with the scientific know-how to make a real difference for pollinators, people, and the planet. 

Thank You Warren!

Warren Sarber has been a fixture of the Hamilton County SWCD Board of Supervisor since 2010 and has decided to resign to allow his position to be filled with a new person to represent county residents. Warren was a teacher at Hamilton Heights High School for 16 years. He participated in FFA, worked with farmers young and old, and supported 4-H. Conservation practices utilized by Warren include grass waterways, filter strips and minimum tillage. Warren also worked for a farm and seed operation for 27 ½ years. Warren served as treasurer of the SWCD Board for 8 years.

Volunteer Position Spotlight: Member Education Volunteer

We do ask for a one-year commitment.  If you are interested in this role and unable to commit to one year, please reach out to our volunteer coordinator lynsey.johnston@hamiltoncounty.in.gov to discuss!