National Public Gardens day to celebrate the environmental leadership of America’s 500-plus public gardens, May 7

Scheduled for May 7, 2010, the Friday preceding Mother’s Day weekend, National Public Gardens Day is a national day of awareness in which communities nationwide are invited to visit and learn about the important role their public gardens play in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness, plant and water conservation, and education. Created in partnership between the American Public Gardens Association and irrigation product and service provider Rain Bird, National Public Gardens Day will showcase the contributions of public gardens with special events and activities for schools, families and thousands of visitors at many of the more than 500 North American public gardens.

“Public gardens demonstrate how green spaces can entertain, educate and inspire us all while positively contributing to the surrounding eco-system,” said Dave Johnson, Rain Bird’s director of corporate marketing. “Our support of National Public Gardens Day goes hand in hand with our company’s Intelligent Use of Water philosophy, as we encourage the public to recognize that in addition to being beautiful places and great sources of inspiration, public gardens play an important role in the advancement of environmental education and plant and water conservation within the communities they serve.”

Now in its second year, National Public Gardens Day will be supported by a local, regional and national awareness and education campaign that includes broadcast public service announcements, media partnerships, local and national spokespersons and media tours all focused on communicating the importance of building sustainable environments through improved plant management and water conservation.

“National Public Gardens Day will not only be a time for families and enthusiasts to enjoy the gardens, but will also showcase the achievements and expertise provided by public gardens, as well as their commitment to education and outreach programs that are vital to people's appreciation and understanding of our precious natural resources,” said Dan Stark, executive director of the APGA. “Regardless of their size, all public gardens share a common commitment to providing outreach programs aimed at engaging their communities and educating future generations on the irreplaceable value of plants.”

In celebration of botanical gardens, conservatories, educational gardens and historical landscapes, many of the APGA’s 500 member institutions will mark the day with special events and activities for schools, families and thousands of visitors. Many of the activities will continue through Mother’s Day weekend, offering visitors time to enjoy the beauty of the gardens while learning about each garden’s commitment to education, research and environmental stewardship.