Plant ID Competition as a Tool for Cultivating Botanical Knowledge & Passion

This lecture will explore the powerful role of plant identification competitions in fostering botanical education among youth and young adults, particularly in light of the diminishing access to formal botanical studies for these age groups. Drawing on my experience as both a former contestant and coach of a collegiate plant ID team, I will discuss various competition types, from high school 4-H and FFA events to collegiate challenges, highlighting their effectiveness in sparking and nurturing a passion for plants. The presentation will showcase successful models of engagement and then outline actionable ways NPSOT members and chapters can directly support and participate in these vital educational initiatives, ensuring the future of native plant appreciation.

Austin R. Kelly is President and Lead Biologist for ARK Ecological Consulting, a botanical and environmental consulting group that works across the US focused on plant and wildlife inventories and conservation, invasive species control, and sustainable private-land management practices. Austin is also an instructor and PhD student at Texas A&M University studying plant ecology, particularly rangeland ecosystem management in the Edwards Plateau, including grazing, burning, and ecohydrology. Austin has taught 9 different undergraduate courses in botany and ecology over 8 years. He was the coach for the Texas A&M Plant Identification Team for 4 years, and his team placed 2nd in the US in 2025. Austin is also a Research Associate with the S.M. Tracy Herbarium where he conducts research on Texas plant biogeography and floristics. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Society of Ecological Restoration and is passionate about environmental education, working with many youth organizations teaching about plants and ecosystems.