Join us on June 20th for green roof discussion and presentation:

Location: Rogue Eastside Pub, 928 SE 9th Ave, Portland OR, in the Barrel Room.

5:30 - 6:00 GRiT general meeting.

6:00 - 7:30 Presentation by Andrea Melneychenko and discussion about biochar and green roofs

Wondering what biochar is? You’re not alone.  Biochar is a form of fixed carbon that improves soil fertility by attracting and providing habitat for beneficial fungi and bacteria and delaying nutrient leaching. Biochar can help sustain plant life during periods of drought while still improving infiltration rates of soils and media during heavy rain events.

 Andrea’s presentation will explore the history of biochar and discuss current day applications, including urban agriculture, bioswales, green roofs, and street tree plantings. Current research and past studies will be detailed, with discussion around future projects.

 Andrea Melnychenko is a Plant Biologist who has worked in the horticultural field for 18 years.  She holds a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Plant Physiology from Portland State University, where her research focused on urban greening and plant/atmosphere interactions. Andrea is a long-time GRiT member, and was involved with planning, installing, and conducting research on the experimental green roofs at PSU.  Andrea works for the Green Industry divisions of Cool Planet where her work focuses on exploring new markets and innovative applications for biochar in urban settings.

For more information, please contact GRiT at admin@greenroofthinktank.org

Thank you, and we hope to see you on the 20th!