In 2023, a team of volunteers set about removing invasive shrubs and vines along Meadow Lane and between Lake Appert and the Allendale Brook, and cutting down invasive Phragmites reeds along the west side of Lake Appert. Then native plants were installed, including some 1,000 native perennials protected by fencing in what has come to be known as the East Side Native Plant Garden.

In this live presentation, Celery Farm volunteers Frank Alcaide and Christian Alcaide (pictured above) will explain how they came to volunteer at the preserve, how their enthusiasm drew some 70 volunteers, and their plans for the preserve’s future. If you've met Frank and Christian, you know this will be an engaging, informative, and fun evening.

The talk, sponsored by the Fyke Nature Association, is free and open to the public. Bring questions about native plants and volunteering.

The Allendale Municipal Building is located at 500 W. Crescent Ave.

Since 2015, Fyke meeting costs have been funded by generous grants from the Winifred M. and George P. Pitkin Foundation.