Nature advisory schedules August lunch-and-learn, partners with Parks & Rec and garden clubs

Mary, representing the nature advisory group, said the first of a planned lunch-and-learn series will be held Aug. 12 and will focus on alternative lawns and pest issues the group is facing at the Nature Center. She said staff are working with Barbara from Odins (the restaurant) on the menu, and with Jody Trendler, the city's sustainability officer, to broaden publicity and invitations to garden clubs beyond Norwalk.

"We're working with Jody Trendler from the city. She's the sustainability officer, and we're looking to invite people from all different areas, New Canaan garden clubs...Our first lunch and learn is gonna be on the alternative lawn," Mary said.

Authority staff offered to help manage online registrations and suggested using a platform such as SignUpGenius to collect attendee information and payments. Mary said the event will include a provided lunch and that the Nature Center will charge attendees to cover the meal.

Mary also reported ongoing maintenance at the Nature Center and volunteer efforts; she asked for mulch and crushed stone donations and said she is considering hiring landscapers to assist with heavy summer work.

No formal action or funding decisions were made at the meeting; staff offered to assist with publicity and registration logistics.