Get the real dirt on growing green March 27 at the Johnson County Healthy Yards Expo, an exciting new lawn and garden show that aims to help citizens make greener choices in their yards. The expo focuses on a new program from Kansas State University’s Research & Extension, Kansas Healthy Yards and Communities, which works to educate the public on environmentally conscious lawn and garden care techniques.

K-State’s Healthy Yards program evaluates lawns and gardens in nine areas, from water use to wildlife habitat. The Healthy Yards Expo will highlight recommended products, tips and tools that meet the program’s criteria, helping Johnson County residents go “green-er” in lawn and garden care.

The expo will transform the Lenexa Conference Center into a marketplace of ideas, tools and experts for eco-improvements for yards. It’s a one-stop shopping and learning event on green ideas, products and services. Visitors to the expo can:

• Shop the expo’s vendors for beautiful plants, vegetables, garden art and accessories.

• Visit with K-State Research & Extension master gardeners and plant societies offering expert advice on gardening and plant cultivation.

• Listen to informative speakers on topics such as composting, water conservation, organic gardening and sustainability.

• Enjoy food from local restaurants.

• Participate in free, fun and educational activities for children.

Expo hours and admission
The Healthy Yards expo runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 27 at the Lenexa Conference Center, located just south of College Boulevard at 11184 Lackman Road. Admission is free.

Call for exhibitors
Exhibitor spots are still available for the expo. To participate, businesses and organizations must showcase environmentally friendly services, products or practices that relate to at least one of the evaluation areas of the Healthy Yards assessment.

Booth space is $50 by Jan. 31, and $75 after for businesses. Nonprofits receive a discounted rate of $25 by Jan. 31 and $35 after.

Download the exhibitor application.

Sponsorship opportunities
The Healthy Yards Expo is also seeking businesses and organizations to sponsor this show. Sponsors receive many benefits, including recognition in event informational pieces, prime booth space at the event and an opportunity to demonstrate a service or product to the public as part of the event schedule. (Check for details: limited opportunities are available.)

For more information about becoming an expo exhibitor or sponsor, contact Mandy Stark at mstark@ci.lenexa.ks.us.

About the expo
The Johnson County Healthy Yards Expo is being brought to the public by Johnson County K-State Research & Extension; Johnson County Stormwater Management; the City of Lenexa’s Parks and Recreation Department and Rain to Recreation program; and the City of Overland Park’s stormwater division.