2012 Environmental Expo & Tree Sale

Each year, the City of Ramsey coordinates an Environmental Expo and Tree Sale event to usher in spring, encourage tree planting throughout the community, and to promote environmental awareness and education of its residents. The 2012 proposed budget includes funding for this event and so planning for this event should now start in earnest.

As the Board knows, the expo event date is set for April 28, 2012.  The event will again be held at the Municipal Center with the Business Expo presumably held across the street at the Fountains of Ramsey (same location as the 2011 event).  Now is the time to start touching base with past exhibitors as well as identifying potential new exhibitors to invite.  A list of exhibitors from the 2011 event has been included for review.

With the changes to the tree sale format, a greater emphasis will need to be placed on that component of the event.  Volunteers will be needed the day of the event to assist with handling of materials and ensuring that purchased trees go the correct people.  Although nothing is set in stone yet, this year's tree sale may likely consist entirely of pre-orders without any 'day of' sales.  Staff has contacted a tree sale vendor from last year about their interest in continuing with the event but as of the writing of this case, has not yet heard back from them.

There is an opportunity to start to promote the event in the January/February Ramsey Resident newsletter.  As details are finalized, such as a speaker, activities, etc, they can be promoted through the website and in the next issue of the newsletter (March/April).

The Board should be prepared to discuss the expo event and potential participants, activities etc.   The Board may wish to start contemplating its exhibit/booth for the event as well.  The Expo Subcommittee should also be prepared to provide updates, if any, as a part of this discussion.

Based on discussion.