Douglas Tallamy joins the Advisory Council

Douglas Tallamy, the renowned researcher, author, and professor of entomology and wildlife ecology at the University of Delaware, has accepted the invitation to be a member of the Delaware Botanic Gardens Advisory Council.

Carla Markell, chair of the Advisory Council, resonded that, “Doug Tallamy is a great addition to our growing group of leaders who are committed to the creation of this wonderful Delaware treasure. Doug is one of Delaware’s most respected thought leaders. His voice has been heard around the world and now his voice will help us guide this Delaware project to a successful and environmentally sustainable conclusion.”

Holly Shimizu, emerita executive director of the United States Botanic Garden, remarked, “Doug Tallamy is an inspiring leader and it is thrilling that he will bring his vision to the Advisory Council of the Delaware Botanic Gardens. His books and presentations have contributed to a much greater understanding and knowledge of the importance of native plants in our gardens and their role in supporting overall diversity.”

Advisory Council member Rodney Robinson, FASLA, said, “I am very happy that Doug Tallamy has joined the Advisory Council. He will bring a unique and informed perspective to gardening. Doug’s research has produced the best argument that I’ve heard for using indigenous plants in the landscape.”

Michael Zajic, president of the Delaware Botanic Gardens board, said, “When we began this project, we could only dream that one day the Delaware Botanic Gardens could attract horticulture leaders like Holly Schimizu, Rodney Robinson, and now Doug Tallamy. As a lifelong gardener, Doug’s message has inspired me to make the right plant choices that can affect the future positively.”

Doug Tallamy, author of Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants, said, “I am delighted to be part this great project. Joining at this early phase will enable us to begin the Delaware Botanic Gardens with the mindset that emphasizes native plants of the coastal plain that sustain wildlife. I am equally honored to be working with Carla Markell and the other distinguished public and private sector leaders who are assisting in the creation of the Delaware Botanic Gardens."

Led by Mrs. Markell, the Advisory Council includes Holly Shimizu, emerita executive director of the United States Botanic Garden; Collin O’Mara, director of the National Wildlife Federation; Hugh Leahy, former senior vice president of the Delaware Community Foundation; Nelson Shaffer, executive vice president/chief administrative officer of Pennoni Associates; Rodney Robinson, one of the region’s leading landscape architects; Ronnie Burkle, executive chef of SoDel Concepts; and David Small, secretary of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.