Program Highlights at New England GROWS

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BOSTON, Mass. — New England GROWS announced the agenda for the next annual GROWS conference to be held on its new dates, Dec. 2-4, 2015, in Boston.

Acclaimed authors, influential environmentalists and successful entrepreneurs are among the speakers at the conference. Educational highlights include:

  • Michael Dirr, Ph.D., an authority on woody plants and the award-winning author of several popular books, will speak “In Praise of Noble Trees” and on “A Cornucopia of New Flowering Trees & Shrubs: Selection, Use & Culture.” He will autograph his books at the show, as well.
  • In “The Living Landscape: Designing for Beauty & Biodiversity,” Rick Darke will explore how an understanding of biodiversity can be put to practical use in residential gardens and community landscapes.
  • Kate Kennen, RLA, will tackle “Phyto Landscapes: Using Plants to Clean Up Polluted Water, Soil & Air,” and share how phytoremediation plantings can be used to enhance environmental conditions on roadsides, in communities and brownfields.
  • Professor John Ball, Ph.D., of South Dakota University, will address the all-important issue of safety for tree care, landscaping and nursery professionals in “Safety Starts at the Top.” He’ll explain The Haddon Matrix approach to reducing risk.

In all, conference participants can choose from more than 30 educational sessions over the course of three days. Continuing Education Credit from a gamut of professional organizations is available at many sessions.

In addition to in-depth conference sessions, interactive educational opportunities are available throughout the show on the expo floor. Attendees can pick up quick information hits at 15-minute Sprint Sessions; watch a raised, permeable patio take shape right before their eyes; challenge themselves at the plant ID contest; or try their hand at a chain saw teardown competition.

Registration options start at $29 for all three days of the show and early registrants realize the most savings. For the complete agenda or to register, visit NewEnglandGrows.org. The GROWS mobile app is available on iTunes or GooglePlay and is a great way to stay up to date with conference details.