The College of Natural Resources and the Environment and UMass Amherst made their presence known at this year's New England Grows conference, held at the new Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Almost 14,000 people attended the 13th annual event, setting a new attendance record for this green industry show.

With over 700 exhibitors, New England Grows is a mecca of sorts for workers in the green industries, many eager to broaden their horizons or update their skills by taking formal classes. Students from agricultural-technical high schools also attended the conference to learn more about career opportunities in the growing green industries. Kathy Conway, Admissions Counselor for Stockbridge School, brought information about the School's associate degree and NRE bachelor degree programs for prospective students. She also spent much of her time "catching up" with alumni, many of whom now have their own businesses in green industries such as nurseries, landscape contracting, and tree-care.

This year's new, larger venue provided space for three learning center "parks" in the exhibit hall. UMass Extension, one of the co-sponsors, took center stage with exhibits that included a plant disease diagnostic station, an update on insect pests, and a weed identification quiz that challenged conference-goers.

In another "park", Stockbridge School and NRE students displayed their talents in tree-climbing and landscape construction techniques. Students in urban forestry demonstrated proper climb and descent postures, while students from a construction materials class gave ongoing demonstrations on installing a retaining wall, laying a stone path, and planting a tree.

Both UMass Extension and the Stockbridge School have long associations with New England Grows. The relationships are mutually beneficial, with New England Grows providing some funding sources and connections to the green industry and UMass providing teaching and research opportunities. All participants look forward to continued exhibit opportunities at future conferences.