I’m currently working away on an upcoming presentation for a conference happening next week down at the beautiful Oregon Garden. Sponsored by Sprout (Sustainable Plant Research and Outreach), the conference “Soak It Up: Phytotechnology Solutions for Water Challenges” focuses on some fo the functional aspects of plants as vital components in addressing small and large-scale site issues.

Monday, March 30, 2009 – Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Location: The Oregon Garden Resort, Silverton, Oregon

:: image via Colorado State

From the conference site:
“The conference will raise awareness and provide education about plant based solutions for wastewater and stormwater challenges. The conference will provide practical information about implementing the latest technologies and designs such as constructed wetlands, greenroofs, and rain gardens that will enhance ecology in our managed landscapes. Scientists and engineers will present research and case studies of real problems and solutions. By facilitating conversation and connection across industries we are providing the opportunity to stay at the leading edge of learning and research in this dynamic and growing field. Come help us put plants to work for environmental sustainability and economic development.”

The conference will feature leaders in the fields of phytoremediation, using plants to treat a range of issues – with a focus on water. Highlights include Gerould Wilhelm, PhD and Principal Botanist/Ecologist from Conservation Design Inc.; Eli Cohen, Founder and Principal Engineer of Ayala Water and Ecology; Dave Maciolek, Principal Engineer from Worrell Water Technologies; and Paul Stamets, Founder and President of Fungi Perfecti, LLC.

Two days of presentations will be followed by a day of workshops and tours of local facilities.

:: Living Machine – image via Worrell Water Technologies

I am honored to be giving a talk on Monday entitled: “Connecting Landscape Function to Ecological Function Through Design” which will look broadly at the concept of expanding the potential for science to better inform design solutions, as well as the need to frame ecological solutions within aesthetic and cultural expectations… and my presentation is right before the cocktail hour… convenient.

If you are in the region, it’s an event worth checking out.