‘Plant lady’ identifies plants at Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge

By Kristen Forbes

The Beaverton Valley Times, Nov 27, 2009

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Ginny Maffitt is often referred to as “the plant lady.”

A volunteer at Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, she puts her botany skills to use by identifying plants in the area. Her knowledge of botany is extensive, allowing her to quickly spot whether or not a plant is poisonous, native or unusual.

She lists the plants found on premise and collects and curates a complete herbarium (a collection of preserved plant specimens). The herbarium is now listed on the national register of herbariums.

One of her main goals is advocating for planting native plants. Native plants don’t require pesticides or chemicals and often require less water than non-native plants. They also provide habitat for birds, butterflies and other wildlife.

Maffitt was a teacher for many years before retiring and volunteering at the refuge. A violinist, she taught orchestra for 15 years in the Beaverton School District. She taught violin, viola, cello and bass. After playing violin for five hours a day for 15 years, Maffitt blew out her wrist and switched to teaching fourth and fifth grades. She still works as a substitute teacher in Sherwood.

She enjoys teaching students about Oregon and American history, pioneers and heritage. She also loves teaching about plants and wildlife.

“It’s fun to turn kids onto new things,” Maffitt says.

Her love of gardening, she says, is genetic.

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