Board Member Profile: Terra Albers

By Terra Albers

My interest in native plants began with a simple observation in my own garden. I had plenty of beautiful (to me) non-native ornamental plants, but very few bees and birds, while mosquitos, ants, and wasps seemed to be thriving. That led me to start asking questions about what was missing.

As I learned more, I began to see gardening differently. It wasn’t only about arranging plants to look a certain way; it was about participating in an ecosystem. When we work with the natural systems of a place, rather than trying to reshape them, balance starts to return. The more native plants I’ve added, the more pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects I see, and the fewer “pest” issues I experience. It’s shifted how I garden and how I see my role; I’m part of a larger web, and I want to support it.

I joined the Edmonton Native Plant Society because I value being part of a community that shares both a passion for native plants and a commitment to practical action. I also came to learn from people with deep knowledge and experience, and to contribute where I can. Recently, I was elected to the position of Secretary on the ENPS Board, and am stewarding two city-owned horticultural beds with native forbs and grasses, as well as participating in a seed viability experiment overseen by Patsy, who is a wealth of knowledge on plant taxonomy and botany.

My interests include regenerative gardening, pollinator support, and transforming traditional lawns into more diverse, resilient plant communities. I’m especially interested in how we can create spaces that are both ecologically meaningful and inviting for people.

Perhaps it’s fitting that my name comes from the Latin word for Earth. This work feels like a return to something fundamental – remembering that we are part of nature, not separate from it. Supporting the insects and wildlife that evolved here starts with the plants they depend on. Native plants offer that connection, while also bringing beauty, resilience, and a sense of place to our gardens.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the growing interest in native plants and the opportunity for ENPS to expand its impact through education, advocacy, and making native plants more accessible to the community.

For me, this is ultimately about connection. Supporting biodiversity, strengthening ecosystems, and contributing, in small but meaningful ways, to a more resilient future.