The way you garden and manage landscapes can contribute to a healthier environment for everyone. The Climate Wise Earthkeeping Garden Fair will be held in Ithaca on Saturday April 27 at Boynton Middle School in Ithaca, showcasing practical ways gardeners and property owners can improve soils, manage water, and make the right plant choices.  The event is a first of its kind in the region and builds on the premise that drawing carbon dioxide down from the atmosphere through plant biology is a key way to mitigate climate change. 

Over 30 local groups and businesses will be exhibiting at the event with information or demonstrations on soils, biochar, composting, permaculture, pollinators and beekeeping, native plants, tree planting, invasive species, grafting, and more.  Throughout the event which runs from 10 am to 3 pm, there are five 30-minute talks focusing on healthy soil, water management, no mow lawns, meadows, native plant choices, and intensive permaculture practices.  In addition, short films will be shown that include the hows and whys of climate wise gardening.  

Information will be relevant to every type of garden and landscape as well as offering guidance for both new gardeners and for those with years of experience. Activities are also geared to the young gardener. 

The event is free and the public is invited to drop in at any time or stay for the whole day of learning and inspiration.  Bring a small baggie of soil to get a free soil pH test done by Master Gardener volunteers.  And free tree and shrub seedlings will be given away to all visitors. 

The event has been planned by members of Fossil Free Tompkins along with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County.  In addition the event has many other sponsors and supporters representing local climate action and garden groups. 

More information can be found at http://ccetompkins.org/events/2019/04/27/climate-wise-gardening-an-earthkeeping-fair