The 2025 Annual Gathering
Registration is Open Now
June 20-22, 2025
The rolling hills of Southern Illinois will take center stage during the Illinois Native Plant Society’s Statewide Annual Gathering, held June 20–22 at Southern Illinois University’s Touch of Nature Center in Carbondale.
The event kicks off Friday evening with a keynote presentation by J. Schwegman, followed by an overview of field trip logistics in preparation for expert-guided excursions—two on Saturday and one on Sunday. Boxed lunches and beverages will be provided between Saturday’s trips, and additional programs are being planned to enrich the weekend experience.
Saturday evening features the Dinner Meeting, held on-site at Touch of Nature in the Freeberg Hall Cafeteria. Attendees will receive one drink voucher, and a cash bar will be available. The program includes a keynote address by John Schwegman “The Natural Divisions of Illinois, a pictorial look at some of their unique flora and fauna”, a presentation by Chris Benda, “Changes to the Illinois Flora”, along with project presentations from six INPS Grantees, which we are proud to showcase.
On Sunday, participants can choose between a landscaping tour of the Touch of Nature campus or a tribute hike at LaRue Pine Hills. The event concludes with lunch and closing remarks.