The Grand River Rainscaping Certification Course (GRRCC) is an eight hour training geared towards landscape contractors, landowners and property managers interested in learning more about green infrastructure design, installation and maintenance. This overview will include: types of green infrastructure practices, role of native plants, site assessment, design, site preparation, construction, and maintenance for long-term performance.
The first half of the eight-hour training is conducted in the classroom while the second portion is spent out in the field for hands on learning and application. A short take home test will be used for assessment, and upon completion of the GRRCC, participants will be considered a certified professional of the Rainscaping program. LGROW and community partners will refer interested landowners to the list of certified professionals that have achieved this certificate.
*This course is eligible for 8 Continuing Educational Units (CEUs) towards MDARD pesticide recertification (3B, 5, 6, Commercial Core) and Certified Green Industry Professional (CGIP)
DATE: Thursday, April 25th, 8:00 -12:30, with optional dates to satisfy the required field portion:
• Friday, 4/26 9-1 (Surf Drive, Cannon Township)
• Friday, 5/3 10-2 (West Catholic High School)
• Saturday, 5/11 9-1 (Shadyside Park)
• More opportunities, to be determined
LOCATION: Kent Conservation District, 3260 Eagle Park Dr NE, Grand Rapids (just off the East Beltline)
COST: $30, includes refreshments and all materials
INSTRUCTORS
Deanna Geelhoed, Plaster Creek Stewards Program Coordinator
Amy Heilman, The Living Garden, Native Plant Landscape Designer, Founder of the Native Plant Guild
Rebecca Marquardt, Revery, Landscape Architect, Sustainable SITES Accredited Professional, Native Plant Guild
The Native Plant Guild (NPG) is network of businesses and organizations in West Michigan that offers a variety of ecological landscape services. From providing native seed and plants to planning, design, installation and maintenance, the NPG professionals work together to promote stewardship with projects that preserve, restore and create ecologically functional landscapes. As a dedicated community partner involved in the Grand River Rainscaping program, the NPG has contributed to each of the demonstration sites, from start to finish.
Plaster Creek Stewards (PCS) is a collaboration of Calvin College faculty, staff, and students working with local schools, faith communities, and community partners to restore the health and beauty of the Plaster Creek watershed. Celebrating their 10th year, PCS has played a crucial role within the Lower Grand River Watershed focusing on education, research and restoration. With over one hundred installed rain gardens and bioswales, their work serves to further research in this field while demonstrating to the community how native plants can help stabilize soil, reduce runoff, filter out pollutants, and create habitat in our urban landscapes.