Entries by Mary

In Memory: Mabel “Sindy” Hempstead

In early December of 2020, at the grand age of 95, RIWPS Life member and former Co-President, Mabel “Sindy” Hempstead passed on.  Sindy was a RIWPS member since 1994 and […]

At Risk Plant Propagation Program

In 2019, in an effort to formalize relocation and support of rare plant species populations, the
RINHS, RIWPS, and RIDEM discussed a cooperative program to propagate the seed of state listed rare plant species.

In Memory: Dick (Richard) Donnelly

With sadness we are sharing the news of the death of Dick Donnelly a RIWPS’ member for 28 years and a wonderful volunteer. Dick was passionate about native plants and generously shared his talents for teaching about them, both informally and in a wide variety of public programs and events.

In Memory: Jeffrey Marino

In Memory…. With saddness we are sharing with you the news of the death of Jeffrey Marino.  Jeff along with his wife Patricia have been sponsors and family members of […]

RIWPS Sponsors Another Pollinator Garden

RIWPS has sponsored another pollinator garden this year at the Roger Williams National Historic Park in downtown Providence.  The park has a visitor center and facilities office on North Main Street. 

Prescribed Burn – Rx for the Forest

The pitch pine forest has been an important but declining Rhode Island ecosystem since the days when fire maintained it. Pitch pine (Pinus rigida) is a fire-tolerant tree that thrives on nutrient-poor, dry soil often referred to as a pine barren.

Native or Cultivar? Does It Make a Difference?

Wildlife-friendly gardens and pollinator gardens are becoming more and more popular, driving a demand for native plants. And the horticultural industry is responding with a huge selection of “redesigned” native plants, cultivars of the native species.

In Memory: Sigrid Hewitt

With sadness we announce the passing of Sigrid Hewitt, RIWPS member and volunteer, on May 3, 2020. Sigrid brought her strong interest in nature and plants with her when she moved to Rhode Island fifteen years ago. A long time volunteer at Seed Starters West, Sigrid was awarded a Lifetime Service Award in 2018, especially for her contributions to this group.

In Memory: Joan Pilson

With sadness we announce the passing of RIWPS extraordinary volunteer, Joan Pilson. Joan joined RIPWS shortly after her retirement in 1990 and was soon involved in many aspects of the Society. She was a board member, serving as President from 1993 to 1995 and then as Co-President the following year.