T he mission of the Society is to promote the use of Louisiana irises as a gardening resource, including education, conservation of species and worthy hybrids, cooperation with other organizations of similar interests, and through hosting an annual convention.

History of S L I

"The Society for Louisiana Irises was organized in the spring of 1941 by a handful of interested iris growers an a few early collectors of the native species found in South Louisiana. One of their main objectives was to bring attention to these beautiful flowers.

Although the real workers in the Society were few during the early years, an ambitious course was set. Annual meetings...collecting trips to the swamps, and elaborately staged shows were held. Over the years these meetings continued...Many innovations were started, such as a the arrangement with AIS for a top award for Louisiana irises...A milestone was reached in 1993 when the Society for Louisiana Irises became a Cooperating Society of the American Iris Society. Although always cooperating, they are now officially recognized as a part of AIS with a scheduled program at the National Convention."

Excerpt from an AIS Bulletin, May 1995
Marie Caillet

Objectives
The broad objectives of the Society are:

To promote, foster and encourage the planting and cultivation of Louisiana irises.

To exchange information among iris growers on culture and breeding of native irises. (LA-Iris List)
To collect and distribute the best available information on the subject of native irises.
To encourage investigational work that will have as its object best nomenclature, culture and development of new varieties.
To assist in obtaining legislation and appropriations for conducting plant science research work.
To cooperate with existing organizations.

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