Save the Date!
Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Ocean County College, Toms River, NJ
The 2026 Jersey-Friendly Yards Conference, with a theme of Permaculture, will explore how our landscapes can nourish both people and ecosystems.
Keynote speaker Dr. William Errickson will introduce participants to the principles of permaculture through the lens of native edible plants. His talk will highlight species such as elderberry, beach plum, blueberry, chokeberry, persimmon, serviceberry, and paw paw, examining their roles in native ecosystems while offering practical guidance for incorporating them into home landscapes.
Our plenary speaker is still to be determined.
Join us to explore how integrating food-producing native plants and permaculture practices can build healthier, more resilient landscapes for people, wildlife, and communities. Stay tuned for more information coming soon!
Conference Location
The conference will be held in the Gateway building on the campus of Ocean County College, College Drive, Toms River, NJ 08754.
Tentative Conference Schedule
8:30 – 9:00 am
Exhibits and Morning Refreshments
9:00 – 9:15 am
Welcome Remarks
9:15 – 10:30 am
Keynote Talk
Presenter: William Errickson, Ph.D.
10:30 – 11:00 am
Break
11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Plenary Talk
Presenter: TBD
12:15 pm – 12:30 pm
Closing Remarks and Door Prizes
12:30 – 2:00 pm
Native Plant Sale
Native Plant Sale
Confirmed Native Plant Nurseries that will be in attendance:
Toadshade Wildflower Farm ( offers a variety of native seeds for sale)