Welcome to Wildly Native Suburbia!
We are a team of ecological scientists, professionals, and educators specializing in conducting site evaluations, identifying and removing invasive species, reintroducing native plants, and providing you with a customized, researched-grade, and low-maintenance management strategy for your property.
Drawing upon our research backgrounds in plant physiology and invasive species ecology, we design targeted management plans that address the specific biology and growth strategies of each invasive species. This allows us to integrate the most effective combination of non-chemical and chemical methods—such as smothering, cutting, and precise, minimal herbicide use—to achieve long-term control with the lowest possible ecological impact. While we prioritize non-chemical methods, we follow current ecological research supporting the careful, targeted use of herbicides—only when necessary, at the lowest effective dose.
Our crew members are New York State Certified Private Pesticide Applicators, licensed by the Department of Environmental Conservation to apply herbicides safely, legally, and in accordance with all state regulations and best management practices. This certification reflects our commitment to responsible pesticide use, ensuring that all treatments are conducted with the highest standards of environmental and human health protection. ​
The Beginnings...
Hello! I’m Grace, the founder of Wildly Native Suburbia and a Hamburg, NY native. I grew up exploring the woods and wetlands of this area, which shaped my connection to the land and sparked my path into science. After eight years away from home, pursuing a master’s in Biology and gaining diverse professional experience in ecology, I returned to Hamburg and was struck by how invasive plants were transforming our local habitats. At the same time, I see incredible untapped potential in our suburban landscapes to support native plants, wildlife, and ecological health. That vision drives my commitment to local ecological restoration and reconnecting the community with the land.
​
My career in science has been intentionally winding and interdisciplinary, with roles including research analyst, lab manager, canopy scientist, and invasive plant manager. I’ve worked in a wide range of ecosystems, from the Central Appalachian Mountains and the prairies of the Midwest, USA, to the tropical montane cloud forests of Monteverde, Costa Rica and the temperate rainforests of Vancouver Island, Canada. Each position has given me a different perspective on how ecosystems function and how people can care for them. I bring this combined knowledge together to create practical, community-focused ecological work rooted in local needs.
​
I also believe strongly in building access to science. I’m committed to creating opportunities for young students and early-career professionals who are seeking support, mentorship, and real-world pathways into ecological careers. To date, I’ve mentored more than three dozen high school and undergraduate students, helping them build skills, confidence, and connections in the environmental sciences.
I would love to hear from you!
Whether you’re a landowner, student, or community member, I welcome conversations and connections.
Reach out to collaborate, ask questions, or get involved.
Click on the icons (right) to connect with me on inaturalist and instagram!
Our Values
Our work is inspired in part by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, particularly his deep respect for the natural world and belief in care for our shared home.
​
"The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change." - Pope Francis, Laudato Si', 12
​
Image (left): Laudato Si' Mural Project
Artists: Chris Chapell and Father Vince Petersen, OFM COnv.