Mark your calendars—Member Appreciation Week is blooming July 21–25, and we’ve got a whole week of gratitude, greenery and good vibes headed your way.
This celebration is all about you—our incredible community of members who make everything we do possible. From digging in the dirt to dreaming big about a greener Nebraska, you’re the heart and soul of this work. Without your passion and support, we wouldn’t be able to Plant Nebraska.
So what’s in store? Think garden tours, laid-back virtual hangouts, and some special perks sprinkled in just for you. It's all free for NSA members—our way of saying thanks for sticking with us, believing in our mission and helping us plant Nebraska for healthy people, vibrant communities and a more resilient environment.
We’re beyond grateful to grow alongside you.
—Nebraska Statewide Arboretum
Not a member yet but want in on the fun? Click here to join the crew and be part of something rooted in purpose.
Free Admission at Lauritzen Gardens - 100 Bancroft Street, Omaha
Monday, July 21 - Sunday, July 27
Open daily for exploration - Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Our friends at Lauritzen Gardens are happy to offer Nebraska Statewide Arboretum members FREE admission (up to 2 people per member card) to their gardens from July 21-27 as part of our Member Appreciation Week. We ask that you present your NSA member card and a photo ID at the front desk to redeem the offer.
Omaha’s public garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and green thumbs, birdwatchers and butterfly spotters, photographers and artists, with more than 20 themed garden areas that invite YOU to experience and be inspired by the beauty of every season.
Webinar: Edible Landscapes with Bob Henrickson
Monday, July 21
12-1 p.m. (Central)
Join native plant expert and NSA Horticulture Coordinator Bob Henrickson for an engaging talk on Wild Edible Landscapes! Discover how to transform your yard or garden into a beautiful, sustainable space filled with native plants that are not only good for the environment—but good for your plate, too. Bob will share practical tips, personal stories and his deep knowledge of Nebraska’s edible native flora. Come hungry for inspiration!
Tour the Hawley Hamlet Neighborhood Garden
Tuesday, July 22
9-10 a.m. (Central)
Join the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum for a free, members-only guided tour of Hawley Hamlet, a thriving neighborhood garden nestled in Lincoln’s historic Hawley District. This unique green space is home to over 60 fruit and nut trees, vibrant vegetable beds and a rich tapestry of native plants that support pollinators and wildlife.
Explore a living example of sustainable urban gardening, featuring keystone species like bur oak, goldenrod, sunflower and milkweed, alongside native favorites like coneflowers, columbine, blazing star and the rare green dragon plant. You'll also get a glimpse of the paw paw grove and learn how this community garden integrates permaculture, soil health and ecological education into its mission.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of Lincoln’s most inspiring edible landscapes!
Tree-via at White Elm Brewing Company - Lincoln
Wednesday, July 23
7-9 p.m. (Central)
Want to show off your tree, shrub and all-things-plant knowledge with friends over a pint? Have we got the trivia event for you!
Bring a team (up to 6) to White Elm Brewing Company (720 Van Dorn St, Lincoln) and expect 50ish questions over 2 hours. This is a free event (but we know our friends at White Elm would love it if ya bought a pint or two). Also, non-members are welcome to attend, too, so bring your friends and introduce them to NSA!
To learn more, CLICK HERE
Webinar: Choosing the Right Plant for Your Landscape with Scott Evans
Thursday, July 24
12-1 p.m. (Central)
Native plants offer a wide range of benefits for gardeners, from supporting local wildlife to being more resilient in the landscape. But with so many options now available at garden centers, how do you know which plants will complement your existing garden?
Nebraska Extension Associate Scott Evans will guide you through a selection of native trees, shrubs, perennials and even annuals that are well-suited for home landscapes. Learn how to choose species that fit your space and style, without worrying about them becoming invasive or difficult to manage.
Explore The RiverFront’s Native Landscape Revival
Friday, July 25
9-10 a.m. (Central)
Join the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum for a free, members-only tour of The RiverFront—Omaha’s newly revitalized 72-acre urban park system that includes Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park, and Lewis & Clark Landing.
This tour will highlight the landscape transformation of this iconic area, which now features thousands of native plants and locally grown trees, all thoughtfully designed to enhance sustainability, support pollinators, and reconnect the city to the Missouri River. Explore areas of emerging prairie that offer critical wildlife habitat in the heart of downtown Omaha.
In addition, we will be welcoming The RiverFront as Nebraska Statewide Arboretum's newest affiliate site! Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a bold, nature-forward vision for public space and see how native landscaping is reshaping our urban environments.
This is a walking tour, so wear your comfy walking shoes and be prepared for Nebraska weather. We will be meeting at the Gene Leahy Mall Pavilion.
Space is limited, so register today!
https://theriverfrontomaha.com/
Member Discount on NSA Merchandise
July 21 - 27
All week long, take advantage of our member-only discount on all NSA merchandise! Use code MEMBER15 to receive 15% off your order July 21 - 27. And be on the lookout for new merchandise dropping just in time for Member Appreciation Week!
