Carroll College continues to serve as a hub for community education by opening its campus and sharing faculty expertise for events that connect learning, science, and stewardship. One such event, a Native Seed Starting Workshop held on January 13, brought together local experts, educators, and community members for a hands-on exploration of Montana’s native plants.
The workshop was hosted on the campus of Carroll College and co-hosted by Dr. Travis Almquist, associate professor of biology, in partnership with the Kelsey Chapter of the Montana Native Plant Society. The event highlighted how Carroll faculty and facilities can support meaningful community programming rooted in science, conservation, and education.
Attendees heard from a panel of regional experts, including Carson Thomas, nursery specialist with the Montana Department of Agriculture; Kenda Herman, botany data assistant with the Montana Natural Heritage Program; and Karen Nelson, a retired toxicologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Presentations covered seed anatomy, botany, ecology, and germination, providing participants with both scientific context and practical guidance.
Following the presentations, participants applied what they learned during a hands-on seed-starting session. Community members selected from more than 40 species of native wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees. Seeds were hand-collected and donated by members of the Montana Native Plant Society and other contributors. Each participant prepared their chosen seeds for germination treatments and took their projects home to grow, with applications ranging from native plant gardens and landscaping to habitat restoration efforts.
“Native plants are a critical part of our local ecosystems and have a major effect on total biodiversity and ecosystem health and function,” said Dr. Almquist. “Native plants also hold huge amounts of cultural and historical significance, as well as exhibiting unparalleled natural beauty. Hands-on educational events like these offer our community members the opportunity to get a close-up experience with native plants and to share their love of native plants and botany with others. The goal is to spread both awareness and appreciation for the critical role of native plants and empower people to experiment and grow their own.”
Approximately 30 people attended the workshop, including hosts and presenters. Events like the Native Seed Starting Workshop reflect Carroll College’s ongoing commitment to serving as a community resource, providing space, expertise, and collaboration opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom and into the broader Helena community.