Combined Circles: Working With Nature
January 20, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am
| Free – $5Join Rhonda Gracie for Combined Circles: Working With Nature.
Working with Nature: Discover Elegant Solutions for Water and Wildlife
Step into the world of green stormwater infrastructure with two nature-inspired innovations: bioswales and floating treatment wetlands. These living systems do more than manage water, they beautify your landscape, restore water quality, and create vibrant habitats for birds, pollinators, and aquatic life.
In this session, you’ll learn:
- How bioswales and floating wetlands work in harmony with nature
- Design principles rooted in biomimicry for timeless, functional beauty
- Practical applications for gardens, estates, and community spaces
- Plant selections that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and beneficial wildlife
We’ll explore local success stories that show how these systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve water health, and enhance property value, all while contributing to climate resilience and sustainability goals.
Imagine transforming stormwater challenges into lush, thriving ecosystems. Join us and discover how to create landscapes that give back to nature while elevating your outdoor spaces.
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Rhonda Gracie graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in architectural studies. She also has a degree in parks and recreation maintenance management from North Carolina State University. She is the former landscape architect for the cities of Clearwater and Miami Beach, where she has won many awards for notable projects and sustainability efforts. Since 2013, she has been the horticulturist at the University of North Florida, where she and her department are responsible for the management of more than 1,600 acres. She serves on many professional boards and committees and has focused on transforming the campus into a Botanical Garden. Gracie has helped with the implementation of 10 Florida-friendly gold-level certified gardens, UNF’s Bee Campus USA designation, and 26 transformational educational garden exhibits. She has won 12 awards and certifications, including UNF Duval County School Employer Partner of the Year and the 2022 recipient of the Florida Nursery, Growers, and Landscape Association (FNGLA) Outstanding Educator of the Year Award.
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Combined Circles is an occasional program that allows members of garden circles to meet at the Garden Club of Jacksonville for fellowship and camaraderie.
The Garden Club appreciates all Circle members registering for this event, so we know how many chairs and refreshments to provide. If you need assistance registering, please call 904-355-4224.
Circle Presidents: Please reserve space for the number of people attending your Circle’s meeting after the program by calling 904-355-4224.
Free for #GardenClubJax members | $5 for nonmembers
All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable.