Media Advisory: Department of Pesticide Regulation Director Participates in Grand Opening of Nature’s Inspiration Gardens in San Jose

In 2010, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) awarded a $200,000 grant to the city of San Jose to create a model, pesticide-free urban park in its Courtyard Gardens within Guadalupe River Park. Today, Nature's Inspiration Gardens feature low-maintenance, drought-tolerant and native plants that invite beneficial insects and wildlife and help prevent contamination of waterways. Pest control has shifted from pesticide-based to integrated pest management (IPM), a combination of natural and preventive strategies that focus on long-term pest prevention and are as benign as possible to people, pets and the environment.

Press conference and tour to celebrate the grand opening of Nature's Inspiration Gardens.

DPR Director Brian R. Leahy, Guadalupe River Park Conservancy Executive Director Leslie Hamilton, San Jose Environmental Services Department Director Kerrie Romanow and others.

Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012, at 11 a.m.
Guadalupe Courtyard Gardens
Taylor and Seymour Streets near the Heritage Rose Garden
San Jose

More information about the event is posted on San Jose's website at: http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/1914/1544095/

Mulching demonstration, garden tours, sustainable landscaping workshops

The event is outdoors. Dress casually.