Why are there membership dues?
More than half of our operating revenue relies on membership dues. Simply put, your dues keep the lights on and our staff fed. Our 3,200 members require more support than a volunteer committee can sustainably provide, so we have staff to help members get the most from their membership and volunteers deliver the events and programming that makes HPSO so valuable to the gardening community.
What's the difference between membership levels?
We offer membership for one person at $40 per year. For households (at the same address), you can add another person for just an additional $10 (totaling $50). Students enjoy a special discounted rate of just $25 per year. A current student ID image is required.
Are my membership dues tax-deductible?
No portion of the membership dues are tax deductible as you are receiving goods (like the newsletter and magazine) and services (like events at nurseries) in exchange. All donations though may be tax deductible. Explore our “Support” link at the bottom of our site to learn more about tax-deductible donations to HPSO.
Is the print version of the Quarterly magazine included in my membership?
The digital version is included with your membership and back issues can be found on our website. For an extra $15, you can have this publication shipped to your home. An excellent deal!
Can I bring friends to member-exclusive events such as Open Gardens or After Hours?
As we see it, your friends are future members! Some folks need to experience the benefits before joining. We thank you for including them and sharing these joys of membership. It’s the soundest endorsement we have: YOU bringing new members to our fold!
Our one exception is the Annual Meeting where we elect new board officers.
How do I get more involved as a volunteer?
We’re so glad you asked! Please click the Contact button on our website and tell us a little bit about what you are interested in. We have opportunities to help with larger events like our plant sales (Hortlandia or PlantFest) or maybe something more bite-sized.
What is HPSO's relationship with Elk Rock Garden?
HPSO’s roots to Elk Rock Garden run deep! The children who grew up there, Ann McDonald and Jane Kerr, were members. In 2024, we moved our staff offices to the manor at Elk Rock Garden where we house our books collection and hold workshops and board/committee meetings. HPSO is a tenant at this wonderful place and is not involved in the garden, which is overseen by the Elk Rock Garden Foundation. For any questions related to Elk Rock Garden, please reach out to them directly on their website elkrockgarden.org
How do I include the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon in my estate planning?
We ask anyone thinking of making a gift to Hardy Plant Society of Oregon to share our non-profit’s EIN (93-0884453) with their estate attorney. We also invite you to get in touch with our Executive Director Amy Coulter, so she can answer any questions about the organization and its future directions. We thank you in advance for considering HPSO in your planning.
