Groups such as Rotary Clubs, native plant societies, and green building associations are often looking for speakers. Also, offering a short talk is also a good way to introduce OFG to government agencies (water quality, water supply, flooding, green waste reduction) as well as private water districts. If a landscape-related class is already being offered, offer to present a section on OFG. Pictured at left is Beth Crosse, Co-Chair of the South Bay, CA Surfrider Chapter's OFG Sub-Committee, speaking for 10 minutes at a class put on by a water district.
At left is Ramie Allard, Chair of the Monterey, CA Surfrider Chapter's OFG Sub-Commitee (and landscape contractor, plus G3 Certified Professional), leading a walk. Ramie provided participants with coffee, bagels and fruit. Ramie handed out OFG Bingo cards for the walk.The group started their learning process at Ramie’s garden, with Ramie pointing out how the OFG principles of CPR - Conservation, Permeable and Retention - were applied. They walked to two other gardens that were installed by a local landscape professional who joined them on the walk: Robert Schuler. Ended back at Valley View property for plant raffle and Bingo plant prizes.
Also in attendance were an arborist, a nursery owner, Master Gardeners, neighbors, a contractor, an irrigation specialist, and the President of Central Coast CLCA (California Landscape Contractors Association). Ramie had OFG books on hand to sell.
Walks also help identify gardens that have some OFG elements, and may just need a little help to complete them. A Surfrider chapter might consider hosting a Garden Assistance Party to help do that one last part, such as re-directing a rain gutter downspout into the landscape. When the OFG is complete, it can be posted on the OFG online map, and return to the site for a walk!