I have been doing this for nine years, hence my GW name. It is fun, good exercise, you learn more about plants, AND you have plants to share with local parks or to plant in your garden. NC Native Plant Society has several groups that do this across the state, and some Master Gardener groups also perform this "service," depending on which area you are in. Tell us where you are, and we can provide links to area groups. For me, you have to be a member of NCNPS or MG. I want that because I try to make sure that people do not return over and over again to sites, especially after the big machines are there. That is dangerous. It is also NOT a good idea to go out to the woods alone, so we always go in small groups. We have our members sign liability waivers since many developers are afraid to have us on the land otherwise.

I live in Concord, NC, which is right outside Charlotte. Any info you could provide would be extremely appreciated! Thanks! Lyle

Lyle,

How far are you from Troy? The NC Native Plant Society has a chapter there. ncrescue will get some good info for you. Do try to join a group cause we do have lots of good times, digging,fellowship, and all the good plants you can dig. Look forward to meeting you. plantbug

Plantbug,

I am exactly 45 miles from Troy. *S*

Surely there is a group closer to Charlotte, with all the development in and around this area you would think.

Lyle

Here's a link to the chapter near/in Charlotte.

Meetings take place the 2nd Sunday of the month at 2:30 p.m. at the UNCC Botanical Center unless otherwise noted in calendar. Meetings are free, donations welcome!

Here is a link that might be useful: Charlotte chapter

The woman who is the leader in Charlotte: angela@ncwildflower.org.

They have many meetings and do plant rescue. They are also starting a native plant certificate program with Larry Mellichamp of UNCC leading the program and in cooperation with the university there. I would love to take some of his classes, as he is great!

If you go to the home of the website posted above, you will see a link to plant rescue material. Read that; contact Angela. I think you have to join to go with this group, but we always welcome "tips" about sites that are to be razed. Many people want to save these plants but don't like the idea of going into the woods with snakes, insects, etc. Oh, Monday I went on a mini-rescue here in town...no natives, but plenty of Lycoris, crocus and other bulbs and even peonies starting to come up. These plants are too wonderful to let the bulldozer get them, so we were grateful for the opportunity to dig.