Green living visits Lampe Park this weekend

A poor economy has made going green more attractive and sensible, said Gardnerville resident Vicki Bates.

"Some of these things we would never even think about before," she said. "Now we have to, and we're realizing they're not hard to do."

Bates was at Lampe Park on Tuesday planning the layout for the second annual Sustainable Living & Renewable Energy Green Living Roundup, which is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

"People are realizing they can conserve and still be comfortable," she said. "Green living is not about deprivation; it's about consumers using their dollars more wisely. There are lots of options."

More than 30 businesses and organizations will exhibit those options during the two-day event. Among those occupying booths are Comstock Seed, seller of drought-tolerant plants; ICF Framing & Construction, builder of insulated concrete form homes; and Independent Power Corporation, provider of solar electric, solar hot water, wind power and radiant heat systems.

Bates is a member of the volunteer, nonprofit Sustainable Living and Renewable Energy organization, which was founded two years ago to promote "sustainable practices, renewable energy use, and environmental responsibility in the way we work, play and live."

"Our goal is primarily educational. We want to get the word out," she said. "But we also try to support local businesses, and this event is a way to connect businesses and people."

The event will feature 36 workshops where participants can interact with industry experts. A broad range of topics will be covered, from renewable fuels and green building strategies to septic system maintenance and year-round vegetable production.

"I'm excited to learn about gardening," Bates said.

Cold-frame structures will be displayed. Typically made out of hay bales and glass windows, the structures enable vegetables to be grown throughout the winter.

"With all these tomato and pepper scares, why not grow your own?" Bates said.

She said there will also be a children's activity center where kids can learn how to bake cookies in solar ovens, make handmade paper from scratch, or grow plants in recycled plastic bottles.

Goodie's Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Hound Dog Cart, Indian Tacos, Lira's Market and the Margarita Man will sell food and beverages.

Live music will be provided each day from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Musical guests are The Bar BQ Boys and the Living Picture Show.

"Last year, the event was at the Bently Science Park, and we had about 1,000 people show up," Bates said. "This year, we've simplified things, and we hope to have more visibility at Lampe Park."