Bug Discovery Day Learning, Exploring, and Discovering the Small Wonders

Did you know that over 90% of the bugs you see in your garden are actually beneficial? These hardworking insects help keep your plants healthy by controlling pests naturally. Encouraging beneficial bugs is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce harmful insects in your garden.

Join us for a presentation by Suzanne Bontempo, who will share how beneficial insects support healthy gardens and how you can attract them to your own backyard. After the presentation, stay for an afternoon of hands-on, family-friendly fun! Explore our native plant garden and see how many bugs you can spot. Visit our tables for interactive activities, including Pest or Pal boards, activity guides, and other bug-themed games that are fun for all ages. And bring snacks to enjoy in our Picnic tables.

Enjoy a day of learning, exploring, and discovering the amazing world of beneficial bugs!

There is no charge for this outing, which is made possible by the voters of Sonoma County who fund the work of Ag + Open Space with a quarter-cent sales tax.

Suzanne Bontempo works as an environmental educator, teaching the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for sustainable, eco-friendly pest management around the home and garden. Suzanne, owner of Plant Harmony and the IPM Advocate Program Coordinator for Our Water Our World was recognized for excellence in her field winning with the 2013 IPM Innovators Award. Suzanne has worked as a professional gardener for 30 years. She is a Qualified IPM Advocate, a ReScape California Qualified Landscaper, QWEL certified, a Master Composter, and loves teaching folks how to grow bountiful gardens that are also safe and healthy for you, your family, and the environment. To learn more about Suzanne, visit plantharmony.org