Please join the Willamette Valley Hardy Plant Group on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Unitarian Universalist Church, 1685 W 13th Avenue, Eugene, OR, for our guest speaker program presented by David Hedberg. This month’s topic is “Heritage Trees in Oregon History”.

Oregon has a rich history connected to its trees. Dave Hedberg specializes in tracing the history of Oregon through its storied trees and bringing this history to light. From ancient Oak and Pine forests to rare botanical specimens, Oregon’s history can be found in living trees across the state. He will share some of his research and a short film about Heritage Trees in Oregon History.

Dave’s interest in history began with his childhood in the Pacific Northwest. Traveling with his parents to visit family across the region, he was fascinated by the natural and cultural landmarks that make each community distinct. Stories of his great-grandparents and grandparents helped him develop an ear for listening and led to a passion for researching the past. He has spent most of his life outside exploring places—old buildings, fields, and forests.

Dave has an MA in history from Portland State University and is the owner of Outdoor History Consulting, a small firm specializing in documentary film and public history. He has produced award winning programs and publications for PBS and the National Park Service and is currently a filmmaker in residence with NW Documentary.

For more information about the group or this event, visit our website at www.thehardyplantgroup.org/events or email us at info@thehardyplantgroup.org.

This in-person meeting will also be broadcast live over Zoom to members who are unable to attend in person. The Zoom broadcast will also be recorded, and a viewing link will be sent to members to access within two weeks of receiving it. If you are interested in watching our Zoom broadcast and are not a member, please see the “About” page on our website at www.thehardyplantgroup.org/about to download our membership form to join.

Doors on the east side of the building open at 6:30 PM for refreshments, browsing botanical samples, and socializing. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members. Membership in the Hardy Plant Group is open to all and is only $30 annually. There is ample parking in the parking lot, accessible from both Chambers Street and W 13th Avenue, with additional parking in the adjacent Looking Glass Center parking lot to the north, but please do not park under their covered entryway. Overflow parking is also available in the first 20 spaces on the east and south side of Redeemer Fellowship Church, just across Chambers Street to the west. View parking map at www.thehardyplantgroup.org/contact

The Willamette Valley Hardy Plant Group is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) volunteer organization for gardeners of all experience levels. The Group is dedicated to educating the community about perennials, shrubs, and other plants for use in the garden, sharing each other’s gardens, and fostering a love of gardening. For more information, visit www.thehardyplantgroup.org.