MGABC FALL CONFERENCE "Best of the West" ~ Archived

Saturday, October 20, 2012.  In recognition of 30 years of Master Gardeners in BC, the MGABC is excited to announce the 2012 Conference ‘Best of the West – a celebration of Best Gardening Practices’.  OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, this educational conference will be held Saturday, October 20 in Nanaimo.  Programming has been designed to allow mainland ferry travel and island driving the same day.  However, there are several nearby accommodation facilities available (see PDF file below) for those wishing to stay overnight and visit the region, or take in one of Sunday’s tour options, the following day. Do consider car-pooling possibilities too.

The conference truly represents ‘Best of the West’ speakers and topics.  The DAY PROGRAM (10 am – 4 pm) includes a CATERED LUNCH, and features:

1. Harry Jongerden, Vancouver - Garden Director, VanDusen Botanical Garden “21st Century Botanical Gardens: Communities for Conservation”
2. Dr. Linda Gilkeson, Saltspring Island - well respected writer, teacher and consultant on pest management “Common Pests & Diseases on the Coast: Diagnosis & Management Without Pesticides”
3. Cass Turnbull, Seattle – Founder PlantAmnesty, lecturer and writer on the subject of pruning reform “How to Prune & Renovate the Overgrown Garden”
4. Panel on Growing for Your Community, a local community success story: 2 regional speakers

There are further ticket options of adding a CATERED DINNER (available for all registrants, including the public), during which a 1 hour AGM and celebration of Master Gardeners' activities will be held, in advance of the Evening Program.  

Another option is to add the EVENING PROGRAM (6:30 – 8:00 pm) to your ticket.  Internationally renowned garden design expert Lucy Hardiman, Portland will speak on “Full Frontal Gardens: Gone the Lawn”.  You may also purchase this ticket separately.

ADDED FEATURE: The Market - Plant Vendors, Artisans, a Silent Auction, plus featured speakers’ books, will all be available throughout the day.

Early Bird Pricing has now ended -- but not your opportunity to still be part of this event!  Below are prices effective July 1:

• $54  Day Speakers Program & Catered Lunch 
• $70  Day Speakers Program, Catered Lunch & Dinner (AGM) 
• $72  Day Speakers Program and Evening Speaker Program, Catered Lunch 
• $90  Day Speakers Program and Evening Speaker Program, Catered Lunch & Dinner (AGM) 
• $20 Evening Only Speaker