The University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists invite community members, gardeners, and native habitat enthusiasts to the Native Seed Share on October 31, 2026, at 11:30 AM. This welcoming, hands‑on event offers participants the chance to exchange native seeds, learn practical techniques, and connect with others who care about restoring Illinois’ natural landscapes.
Locally collected seeds from a variety of prairie and woodland habitats will be available, and attendees are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and gather inspiration for their own native plantings. Expert Master Naturalists will be on site to share seed‑collecting tips, planting techniques, and guidance on choosing species that support pollinators and local ecosystems.
“This event began as just a get-together with friends who were interested in growing native landscapes to share what they had and what they have learned. I’m thrilled at how this effort has taken off. We are now in our 6th year, and last year more than 100 native species seeds were collected and shared.” Said Cindy Owsley, Master Naturalist and host of the event.
Participants are invited to bring their collected native seeds to share, but participation does not require bringing seeds — everyone is welcome to join, learn, and take home native seeds to start or expand their landscape. Participants are encouraged to bring a sack lunch to enjoy while talking with other seed enthusiasts. Registration is required at go.illinois.edu/SeedShare. We will send the address and directions to registrants before the event.
The Native Seed Share is part of Extension’s ongoing commitment to community conservation and environmental education across west‑central Illinois.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.