Lectures & Talks
Dr. Iara Lacher is a landscape ecologist with expertise in plant ecology, ecosystem function, land use, and native plant propagation. She is the owner of Seven Bends Nursery, a native plant nursery located in the northern Shenandoah Valley, offering landscape design, consultation, and long-term ecological management planning services. She focuses on projects that involve local communities, serving through education and outreach as well as through her role as Board Chair for the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center.
Iara has spoken for a multitude of events and organizations such as, but not limited to, Smithsonian Earth Optimism, Shenandoah National Park Conservation Summit, Virginia Native Plant Society, Yosemite National Park, Ecological Society of America, International Association for Landscape Ecology, and several regional fairs and garden clubs. With extensive practice speaking to diverse crowds and having a Ph.D. in ecology, Iara knows how to bring an interesting perspective that is based on science and molded by her love for plants. Iara looks forward to making community connections by educating on the topic of native plants through her various talks listed below. If you are looking for a talk more specified for your event Iara can create one that better fits the topic you have in mind.
1
In Consideration of Native Plants for Contributing to the health of our landscapes and ourselves
Our foundation talk. Connects land use change, habitat, biodiversity, ecosystem function, and ecosystem services to native plants and our role in communities
2
Unraveling the Green Invaders: A closer look at invasive plants in the Ridge and Valley Ecoregion of Virginia
A talk on invasive plants and native alternatives that share traits or function.
3
Harmonizing Habitat-Crafting Sustainable Landscapes with Native Flora
Landscape Design oriented talk
4
Native Plants Through the Seasons
A short, slideshow type presentation on seasonal interest.
5
Planting for a Future Forest
Intro-forestry related talk about forest change due to land use, management, climate, and disease
6
What’s “Native,” Really? How to use range maps as a tool for backyard conservation
A favorite of Dr. Iara Lacher's. Gives background on the methods of creation for range maps, with information for how the public can use them to gauge nativity.
7
How to Propagate Native Plants
Dr. Iara Lacher will deliver tips and tricks on how to propagate native plants in your own backyard.
8
An overview of some of the considerations when planning out your own native plant garden, and when to ask for expert help.
An overview on why native plant gardens matter for the health of our ecosystems and ourselves.
9
Custom Talk
Iara is available for hire to craft a talk tailored to your specific event. Her credentials and experience lend themselves well to a range of topics across audiences of all knowledge levels, including courses in need of Continuing Education Credits. Please contact us for more information.