Butterfly Release Marks National Public Gardens Day

(Springfield, MO) -- Kids helped release butterflies Friday at the Bill Roston Native Butterfly House at the Botanical Gardens.

The little ones had a chance to see the butterflies up close and even held some in their hands.

It's a way to teach adults and children about the importance of butterflies in our native habitat.

"They always ask if they can touch them," laughs MSU Biology Professor Chris Barnhardt.

The butterfly release was part of National Public Gardens Day.

Master gardeners were on hand to help give tours of the grounds and offer some demonstrations.

Volunteers call the Botanical Gardens "horticultural therapy."