In the Weaverville Community Center
[60 Lakeshore Drive, Albert Weaver Room]

Many argue that biodiversity conservation is at a critical point as we navigate the Earth’s sixth mass extinction—that is, a geological era during which species become extinct at a rapid rate—and that species are currently going extinct at a rate 1,000 times faster than ever before in human history.

Please join us for a presentation by Dr. Wesley Knapp, the Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Plant Conservation (CPC), as he explains how CPC has been on the frontlines in preventing plant extinction for over 40 years, how the organization has served as a leading authority on science-based best practices to conserve rare and endangered native plants, and how CPC will continue to lead initiatives and best practices to prevent plant extinction while providing leadership and assistance to plant conservation practitioners in new but essential ways.

Wes, a leading voice in plant conservation with a career spanning over two decades, has extensive field experience across the U.S. and abroad, and he has led efforts to describe new plant species, prevent extinction events, and assess conservation priorities. Born in Massachusetts and raised in New Hampshire, his journey into the world of conservation began during his childhood where time spent outdoors sparked a lifelong passion for nature. He holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, a master’s in plant science, and a doctorate in ecology.  

All are welcome to attend. The garden club will not provide refreshments this month, but feel free to bring your own lunch, snack, or beverages to enjoy immediately following the program, if you’d like. The business meeting will begin soon thereafter.

Club of Weaverville is a co-ed, non-profit organization open to everyone. For more information on what we do, becoming a member, or supporting the club, visit our website.