Florence-The 2012 Renaissance Faire is likely to include trolls with trash bags, eco-conscious queens and knights with a penchant for recycling. Fair organizers have joined forces with In Harmony With Nature to ensure a litter-free event in Wilson Park.
Per tradition, the park is renamed “Fountain On The Green” for the duration of the fair and this year that name will 
take on added significance. “This year’s fair will be greener than ever,” noted Billy Ray Warren, one of the event’s founders. “We have always made a concerted effort to keep the park clean and have had good cooperation from organizers, vendors and visitors. This year we are joining forces with In Harmony With Nature to keep the event litter-free and enhance our recycling efforts.”
The In Harmony With Nature concept originated with the 2011 W.C. Handy Music festival when sponsors and event coordinators expressed a desire to help brand the Shoals area as a “green” destination for the thousands of tourists who attend the events. The concept was well-received during the first year and at the 2012 festival all outdoor events were designated as litter-free.
The IHWN steering team supports litter-free events by providing volunteers and materials to assist festival planners in their efforts. “The litter-free mindset was embraced by Handy Festival planners and it is gradually being adapted by other festivals in Northwest Alabama,” said IHWN project coordinator Judy Hood. “IHWN has taken on a life of its own and we are planning to expand our efforts. “
IHWN steering team members attribute its success to the fact that it is a blended effort involving volunteers, students, nonprofit organizations, tourism officials, local government agencies and business groups. For more information visit the IHWN website at www.harmonyandnature.net or contact Judy Hood, Project Coordinator in Harmony With Nature at jdyhood@aol.com.
