Join Weddin Landcare, the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust and the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, for a seed collection and conservation workshop. The day will include a theory component followed by a walk in the Grenfell Endemic Gardens to search for seeds.
You can expect to gain an understanding of the role The Botanic Gardens of Sydney plays in collecting and storing native seed to protect Australia’s unique flora. Along with collecting strategies such as preserving genetic diversity, how to collect seeds, process collections, and seed germination techniques.
Seed banking or ex situ germplasm collection (seed of living material stored away from wild threats) is critical for the conservation of our native plants. Banked germplasm (seed or living material) can be used for research, breeding or conservation and supports restoration and reintroduction efforts.
The Botanic Gardens of Sydney conducts seedbanking as a core activity, with the state-wide conservation seed program having operated for over 20 years. With around 13,000 collections and 5,200 species the seed collection is the largest of its type in Australia and provides the essential seed collections which forms the ‘heart’ of conservation and restoration activities and outcomes.
Presenters from The Botanic Gardens of Sydney:
Nathan Emery
Manager Seedbank & Conservation Collections
Laura Watts
Collections Development Coordinator
Time: 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Date: Thursday 17th October
Location: Grenfell Bowling Club, Cross Street, Grenfell
RSVP: Claire at weddinlandcare1@outlook.com or 0421 716 170
Make sure to wear enclosed shoes and bring a hat for our field trip to the Endemic Gardens.
