Poison Ivy Reimagined: The Secret Life of a Misunderstood Native Plant

Deadly. Powerful. Surprisingly beautiful. Poison ivy has earned its reputation, but its full story is far more fascinating than you might expect. Join us for an eye-opening evening with author and naturalist Anita Sanchez as she brings this infamous plant into a new light. Drawing from her acclaimed book In Praise of Poison Ivy, Anita reveals how this native species plays a vital role in our ecosystems, serving as a food source for wildlife and contributing to healthy, balanced landscapes. Through vivid storytelling and practical insight, you’ll learn how to identify poison ivy in every season, move confidently through landscapes where it grows, and avoid its irritating effects. Along the way, you’ll discover why this often-despised plant once had a place in cultivated gardens and continues to thrive as a resilient, essential part of the natural world. This engaging talk will leave you with a deeper understanding of the landscapes you love and a fresh perspective on one of nature’s most misunderstood plants. About our speaker: Anita Sanchez is an author and educator dedicated to celebrating overlooked plants, animals, and wild places. With years of teaching experience for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, she brings a rich blend of knowledge, storytelling, and passion for connecting people to nature.