Learning Group: Fostering empathy for plants

In this learning group, we examined a growing question within our Network: what does it look like to foster empathy for plants and how does that fit into our larger conservation themes as zoos and aquariums.

Theo Bamberger (Evaluation Strategist, Woodland Park Zoo) will share their experiences connecting people to nature through their Postcards to Plants project. Ray Watson (Horticulture Curator, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory) will discuss how empathy for plants informs Como’s operations from garden design to interpretation messaging, and educational programing. Jessica Herboth (Conservation Education Curator, Mesker Park Zoo & Botanical Gardens) will highlight their Orchid Escape and Native Plant Sale events as well as discussing the roles plants play in their immersive exhibit planning.