Lunchtime Conversations on Open Spaces

The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee began hosting “Lunchtime Conversations About Open Spaces” in January 2020. Due to the pandemic, the series was put on hold for two years but were started up again in 2022. They are held monthly from 12 – 1 p.m. at Luminous Brewhouse, 504 Broadway St.

During each session, a topic will be explored with attendees, with the focus being what is balanced use of our open spaces in Sheridan County. The March 25 conversation topics were Attracting Pollinators, Attracting Other Wildlife, and How Small Acreages Contribute to Our Communities.

Micah Most, agriculture and natural resources extension educator for Johnson County, with the University of Wyoming Extension, was the moderator.

Harold Golden, Sheridan, volunteer Master Gardener Coordinator for Sheridan County, was one of the attendees, said he was hoping to fill in a bare spot in his yard with pollinating plants, preferably some that require little care.

He said he purchased some wildflower seed mixes and raked them in but so far nothing has grown.

Most said that native plants were recommended, pollinator packages are available at Piney Island Native Plants Greenhouse. There are also native wildflowers seed mixes available at some feed stores in Sheridan, such as Sheridan Seed.

Native plants at Piney Island Greenhouse

He said this about purchasing many pollinator seed packages.

He also added that one might want to study what species of plants are best for Wyoming, not invasive, and that they might want to brush up on the Latin names of the plants as well, as many of the packages have the Latin names of the plants.

One other question was how to attract more wildlife to your property, and one suggestion was making sure they had water, especially in the winter. Bat boxes were mentioned as a way to attract bats to help control mosquitos.

Another topic discussed was ways that small acreages contribute to our vibrant community.

Some comments included was that open spaces were used by 4-H members to raise small livestock, which is wholesome to the community; provide recreation, and creating spots for local natural food production.

Golden added this comment,

Another reason mentioned for small acreages was planting the area as a defensive zone around houses.

The next open space program will be held on April 22 at noon at Luminous Brewhouse. Those attending are encouraged to bring a lunch if they desire.

For more information, call the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce at (307) 672-2485 or visit www.sheridanwyomingchamber.org.