Photos by Mary Alice Murphy
[Editor's Note: This photographer cannot find her notes and apologizes for this being so late and without names of those in the photos. She blames it on overwhelm and not enough hours in a day. in addition to numerous tech issues.
Please someone who likes to write articles, and/or take photos and is bored and would like a very part-time low-paying or no-paying (volunteer!) job to help out the Beat, please contact me at
The Gila Native Plant Society hosted a family day in the Silva Botanical Garden on July 11, 2026. A number of activities kept adults and kids entertained. They included creating items out of various pieces of word, leaves, etc. found in nature, a chance for kids to catch a butterfly using a net and to learn about those butterflies.
Several organizations including the native plant society, Tree New Mexico, the Grant County Archaeological Society, a group informing participants about frogs, others discussing birds , promoting the New Earth project, and noticing the creative signage in the garden.
In addition, The Gila Native Plant Society will offer free docent-led tours of Silva Creek Botanical Garden every Saturday morning starting at 9 AM, August 15. Tours continue on Saturdays at 9 AM through October 31 (except September 12). All ages are welcome. Enjoy and learn about our beautiful native plant garden at State and Virginia Streets, Silver City. No reservations necessary.
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