The Kentucky Native Plant Society (KNPS) is dedicated to serving as a medium of fellowship and information exchange among botanists, both amateur and professional, to promote conservation of native plants and natural plant communities of Kentucky, promote public education in botanical science, and encourage botanical research in Kentucky.

The Society has always depended on volunteers and the contributions of members and friends to accomplish our goals. Over its 40 years, hundreds of people have volunteered thousands of hours to make KNPS the outstanding organization it is.

Volunteering can be the best part of KNPS membership—you will meet the most interesting people and feel a sense of accomplishment as you join others to support the Society and the native plants and plant communities of Kentucky. We have volunteer activities to suit every interest and energy level that are compatible with all lifestyles, with volunteer work ranging from 2-hour shifts to 2-year officer terms. Simply put, we cannot do this without the generous donations of time by people like you!

Hello all native plant and nature lovers!

As we enter 2026, KNPS has transitioned into a new term with new officers. As your new KNPS President, I would like to introduce myself to all of you!

My name is Kendall McDonald, and I am a lifelong Kentuckian from the rural central bluegrass. My love for nature started early, as I explored the tributaries of Elkhorn Creek and the Kentucky River with my family. As I grew older, my love for nature was mostly expressed through painting, photography and continuing to play in the creek. I attended Morehead State University, where I focused on botany and lichens in my coursework and research. As a research student I conducted a lichen inventory of the Eagle Lake watershed.

Continue reading President’s Message: An Introduction and a Botanical 2025 →