CCSS Monthly Meeting – November 2026

About this event

The Value of Museum Collections in Conservation Research

Gary Krupnick, Ph.D.

Head of the Plant Conservation Unit, Department of Botany, Smithsonian Institution

🌵🌎 YOU ARE PART OF A MUCH BIGGER STORY.

Every cactus. Every succulent. Every species we grow and admire.

Behind these extraordinary plants is a world of scientific discovery – and an increasingly urgent effort to understand and protect Earth’s botanical diversity.

And this November, we’re taking that conversation to a whole new level! 🔬🌿

We are THRILLED to welcome Dr. Gary Krupnick , Research Botanist and Head of the Plant Conservation Unit at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, as our featured speaker at the November CCSS Monthly Meeting!

What can plant specimens preserved decades – or even centuries – ago tell us about biodiversity today? How do scientists use museum collections to identify species at risk? And why is preserving information about plants so critical to their conservation? Dr. Krupnick will introduce us to the fascinating world of botanical collections and their vital role in conservation research.

For cactus and succulent enthusiasts, this conversation is especially meaningful. Conservation is a core priority of the Cactus and Succulent Society of America (CSSA) , our parent organization, which actively supports scientific research, habitat protection, and efforts to safeguard threatened species.

☕🌵 And of course, no CCSS meeting would be complete without fresh coffee, delicious refreshments, and our SUPER-POPULAR PLANT SWAP! Bring a plant to share, discover something new for your collection, and enjoy some quality time with fellow cactus and succulent enthusiasts! 💚

💬 Can’t make it in person? Click Contact to request the Zoom link.

Meeting Agenda

• 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM – Social segment

• 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM – Business segment

• 10:15 AM – 11:50 AM – Program segment

Program details are subject to change.