It seems that each year, both Staff and the Board express a desire to incorporate some sort of hands-on activity but that the layout within the Municipal Center isn't necessarily conducive for it.  There are a couple potential scenarios that could be considered: (1) keep the Alexander Ramsey Room open (no exhibitors in there) and hold a work shop or some other hands-on activity in there as well as have some sort of educational presentation (for kids) in there as well or (2) possibly rent a large tent to be set up outside for some sort of activity.  There are pros and cons that can be discussed with each scenario.
 
Staff has received information from a wholesale nursery with regard to available tree stock.  As has been mentioned in previous meetings, the tree sale portion of the event will be much different than in the past due to the retirement of a couple of the vendors and the third vendor stating that they would not be participating this year.  Trees offered will all be bareroot and there is a wide array of species that may be chosen from.  Staff will likely pick ten (10) or so species, all known to perform well in our sandy soils, for pre-order sales.

Last month, the Board discussed bringing back the bird walking activity that used to be a part of the expo event.  Board Member Enstrom had offered to 'host' this activity on his land and was going to check with some of his contacts about a potential candidate to lead that walk and follow that up with a presentation at the Municipal Center.  Staff is hopeful that this is still a possibility but hasn't received any more info related to this yet.