Cornell Cooperative Extension

Tompkins County
A picture of a butterfly in a field of orange flowers at the falls overlook.
Image by Max McCune

NY State Parks using native plants to encourage beneficial species.

Beneficial native plants used in public places.
Image by Max McCune

NY State Parks using native plants to encourage beneficial species.

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Native Landscapes: Management and Planting Strategies at NYS Parks

  • Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

New York State Parks is increasing the use of native plants in our shared public spaces, following a native plant policy that encourages using beneficial species in all landscaping and gardening projects. In this discussion we will go over management strategies that help horticulture staff balance aesthetic and ecological goals in landscape restoration and garden sites around the Finger Lakes state park region. The pros and cons of different planting and establishment strategies will also be discussed.

Instructor's bio: Max McCune has been a Horticulturalist at New York State Parks since 2018, he works to design, maintain and manage native plant restorations and gardens throughout the Finger Lakes region. Prior to his work at parks, Max worked at plant nurseries and sustainable farming operations in Ithaca and in his hometown of Hiton, NY. Max has a bachelor’s degree in history from SUNY Oswego.

This class is offered either online or in-person.

Fee

This program is valued at $20, however, please pay what you are able. Paying more than $20 will help others attend the class.

Register

https://ccetompkins.wufoo.com/forms/mjv6osd0malojb/

Contact

Marissa Nolan
Horticulture Team Lead
mn623@cornell.edu
607-272-2292 x194

Location

This event is online

Location

CCE-Tompkins Education Center
615 Willow Avenue
Ithaca, NY 14850-3555

Last updated May 20, 2026

 

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