Lybarger is a forester and social media figure working to promote native plants and grassland conservation. He explores Alabama and identifies a variety of native plant wildlife — often from just wandering roadsides, trails, and open fields. His findings have helped restore a number of Alabama’s dwindling grasslands. He was the first known person to find purple milkweed in Alabama and the first to document Durand Oak, a plant that typically thrives in prairies.

After an increase in social media popularity, the Alabama A&M alum co-founded the Native Habitat Project with his friends Alan Summerford, an Auburn agricultural economics alum, and Jake Brown, an Auburn environmental engineering alum.

The Native Habitat Project strives to support habitat restoration efforts across Alabama. It provides a variety of services such as property consultations, native plantings, wildlife management plans, forestry consulting, prescribed burning, and brand partnerships.

Lybarger’s social media platforms have made him a well-known voice in Alabama as a leading naturalist and advocate for grassland restoration.

Pizza will be served to attendees!

Questions can be directed to Dr. Ryan Thomson .