KINGSTON, R.I. -- September 10, 2002 -- Gardeners, environmentalists and nature lovers of all kinds can get expert advice on water conservation and recovering from the drought at the University of Rhode Island’s 12th annual GreenShare Field Day on Saturday, Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event will be held in and around the Learning Landscape Gardens on the corner of Upper College Road and East Alumni Avenue on URI’s Kingston Campus.

Sponsored by URI’s Cooperative Extension Education Center, GreenShare Field Day will include gardening and environmental activities that are free and fun for the whole family.

"Because of all the water restrictions in place around the state due to the unusually dry weather we’ve had, this year’s Field Day is emphasizing how gardeners can keep their grass and plants healthy and green without using much water," said Marion Gold, coordinator of the event.

Among the workshops scheduled are "Landscaping with Drought Tolerant Perennials," "Growing Great Roses, Even When its Dry," "Crispy Fried Lawn? Fall Lawn Renovation and Maintenance," and "Conserving Water in the Vegetable Garden." Other workshops address gardening for the birds, soil and compost, growing tomatoes, non-toxic pest control, and hydrangeas, among many others.

A highlight of the day will be a cooking demonstration and book signing at 11:30 a.m. by noted chef and cookbook author Normand Leclair. His Chicken Expressions is a great cookbook for elegant yet easy dinners, while his newest cookbook, Culinary Expressions, is due out later this fall.

Other featured activities at this family-friendly event include garden tours, craft workshops, demonstrations, educational displays and children’s activities on dozens of gardening and environmental topics. The R.I. Wild Plant Society, the URI Master Gardener Association, and several commercial nurseries will be on hand to sell plants and shrubs. Children’s activities include a butterfly pavilion, insect zoo, a pumpkin decorating contest, live chickens, and more.

Free soil pH testing is also available to gardeners bringing a one-cup soil sample, and samples of weeds and pest insects will also be identified. In addition, a limited number of Soilsaver Compost Bins will be on sale for 50 percent off the retail price.

For additional information, call 874-2900. Business sponsors of the event are Clark Farms of South Kingstown, Holly Ridge Nursery of West Kingston, and Wood River Evergreen of Richmond.

For Information: Marion Gold, 874-5705
Media contact: Todd McLeish, 874-7892