Registration for Pollinator Conference Now Open

Jennifer Zurko

Michigan State University Extension and North Carolina State University opened registration for the Protecting Pollinators in Ornamental Landscapes Conference. This conference, to be held October 12-15, 2015, at the Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is intended for extension educators, academic and industry researchers, growers and representatives of related industries interested in or involved with ornamental plant production or maintenance. Twenty-two speakers from 11 universities, two organizations and three countries will cover the function of and threats to pollinators, effects of pesticides on pollinators, current efforts to protect pollinators and how to educate the public.

The conference will also offer an optional tour to Biltmore, the 8,000-acre estate of George Vanderbilt. Attendees will have a special one-hour horticultural tour to learn how Biltmore Gardens addresses pest management and protects and encourages pollinators. Participants will then have a two-hour, self-guided visit inside the Biltmore house, gardens and conservatory, as well as the village, farm, winery and legacy exhibit at Antler Hill. The cost for the tour is $60. Space is limited to the first 40 registrants.

The cost of the conference is $250. Registration for the conference closes October 1, 2015. Registration for the conference is limited to the first 170 participants. Lodging is not included with the registration. Participants will need to reserve their rooms ($115/person/night for double room; $150/person/night for single room PLUS $5 registration fee) as soon as possible as space is limited.

For more information and to register, visit www.ornamentalpollinators.org. GT