Wildlands Conservancy hosted a Pennsylvania Native Plant Discovery Walk July 18 at the Trexler Nature Preserve, offering participants an opportunity to explore the plants that make Pennsylvania’s ecosystems unique.

Environmental Educator Russ Frey led the free two-hour guided walk, introducing participants to native plants found throughout the preserve and explaining their importance to wildlife, pollinators and healthy ecosystems.

Participants learned to identify several native plant species found throughout the preserve while also examining invasive plants, including common mullein, that threaten local biodiversity.

Frey explained how invasive species can outcompete native vegetation and described Wildlands Conservancy’s ongoing efforts to remove invasive plants and restore native habitats throughout the preserve.

Participants also learned about the history of the 1,108-acre Trexler Nature Preserve and its founder, General Harry C. Trexler.

A successful businessman whose interests included the lumber, cement and utility industries, Trexler chose to invest much of his wealth in improving life throughout Lehigh County.

In addition to establishing a refuge for bison, he envisioned the preserve as a place where residents could enjoy and appreciate the region’s natural landscape.

The Native Plant Discovery Walk was offered free of charge through funding provided by Lehigh County.