‘SustainabililtyFEST’

By Holly Michels, of The Montana Standard - 08/17/2007

Tammy Hinman, an agricultural specialist, explains the different types of grass species planted in four test plots outside of NCAT. Native and adapted grass species are just one of the many presentations scheduled for the NCAT Sustain-ability FEST Saturday. Walter Hinick / The Montana Standard.

The blue garma, sheep fescue and crested wheat grasses are growing, the tomatoes are ripe and the compost is turned, all signs that the National Center for Appropriate Technology is ready for the SustainabilityFEST Saturday.

The second annual event at NCAT headquarters, 3040 Continental Drive, features presentations about sustainability on the farm and in homes and communities, as well as separate activities for children.

“We have a lot of experts from our staff,” said director Kathy Hadley, NCAT executive director. “It’s going to be a great informative event.” Agriculture specialist Tammy Hinman spent the summer cultivating three species of native grasses for display at the festival.

“They come up really well,” Hinman said. “They just need a little bit of water to get established, then they grow nicely.” Grass that doesn’t need constant sprinkling to stay green, capturing rain water for reuse and anything that saves resources and energy is the key focus of the event, Hadley said.

She expects the presentation on growing and eating local foods will be a highlight of the day.

“It’s all about working to help people eat healthier and support your own community. Farmers would be far better off if they could sell what they grow in their own state,” she said.

Presenters will focus on programs in Montana trying to get state institutions like universities and prisons to buy their food from local growers.

“You wouldn’t believe the number of meals served in state institutions,” said Marcia Brown, chief operating officer. Hamburgers from cattle raised outside Butte and French fries from Whitehall potatoes will be served for lunch.

On the residential side, NCAT sustainable energy program manager Dale Horton will help attendees be energy efficient in new home construction.

“It’s a great presentation even if you’re going to build second homes to be energy efficient from the get-go.” Reporter Holly Michels may be reached via e-mail at holly.michels@lee.net.