Gilbert is hosting a new  Parks for Pollinators event series at the Riparian Preserve this fall.

The series will celebrate the crucial role of pollinators with a variety of  educational activities designed for all ages. The series is appropriate for a family with young children, a budding gardener, or someone curious about the natural world. The event lineup includes:

1. Parks for Pollinators Parent/Tot Class
   • Date: Sept. 13
   • Time: 9-9:50 a.m.
   • Location: Southeast Regional Library, Dr. Seuss Conference Room
   • Cost: $3
   • Age Group: 2-5 years, with parent/guardian
   • Description: Engage little ones with stories, crafts, and lessons about Arizona’s essential pollinators.
2. Parks for Pollinators: Ranger Night Hike
   • Date: Sept. 13
   • Time: 7:30-9 p..m.
   • Location: Meet at the Dragonfly Ramada
   • Cost: Free
   • Age Group: All ages
   • Description: Experience the desert at night with a guided moonlit hike focused on nocturnal pollinators. Please bring a blacklight and water. No pets, please.
3. Parks for Pollinators: Southwest Pollinators
   • Date: Sept. 21
   • Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
   • Location: Southeast Regional Library, Dr. Seuss Conference Room
   • Cost: $5
   • Age Group: 6-12 years
   • Description: A workshop for children to learn about Southwest pollinators through games, crafts, and a visit to the pollinator demonstration garden.
4. Parks for Pollinators: Pollinator Garden 101
   • Date: Sept. 25
   • Time: 5:30-7 p.m.
   • Location: Southeast Regional Library, Shakespeare Assembly Room
   • Cost: $5
   • Age Group: 16+ years
   • Description: Learn the basics of creating a pollinator garden, from plant selection to tips and tricks. Even take home desert-adapted plants and seeds to get started.

5. Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz
   • Date: Sept. 28
   • Time: 8-11 a.m.
   • Location: Dragonfly Ramada
   • Cost: Free
   • Age Group: All ages
   • Description: Participate in a nationwide effort to document pollinator-friendly plants, animals, and insects. Learn from experts and contribute to citizen science. Download and make an account on the iNaturalist app to participate.

Those interested can register now and sign-up for a newsletter to learn more ways to help preserve our community’s natural habitats.