In the historic halls of ULM’s Museum of Natural History, the archives come alive with preserved stories of the past. The museum presents models of various species and creatures, inviting students to engage in tales from long ago. However, on March 24, the museum will shift its focus from models to the richness of garden soil.

The Museum of Natural History will host Linda Barber Auld as the featured speaker for its spring speaker event. Known as the “NOLA BugLady,” Auld spent nearly 50 years sharing her passion for butterflies, moths and many insects with the community in New Orleans.

Auld participated in monarch tagging programs, non-profit education, research and conservation programs. She strongly believes in conserving and preserving insects. Auld now brings her years of experience to ULM to display her green thumb for gardening at “Plant It and They Will Come.” The event will take place in Hannah Hall at 5 p.m. in the STEAM Room on the first floor.

“I love to inspire people to be interested in bugs, because they’re really important for our planet,” Auld said. “If this could inspire somebody in the audience to try or encourage them to plant a little oasis in their yard, that would be great.”

If weather conditions allow, Auld plans to bring live bugs to showcase during the speaking event. ULM students can look forward to attending “Plant It and They Will Come,” which is free and open to the public. Unique caterpillars and colorful flowers will help demonstrate the importance of protecting the many species she discusses.