The Permaculture Garden is one of the first of its kind in the nation, and plays a key role in the UMass Amherst Sustainability Initiative of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 by helping the campus supply food directly to its dining services, reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, and raise awareness of its sustainability efforts. In celebration of the project's first anniversary, the University invites the community for a dedication at the Permaculture Garden . Frances will deliver a keynote address on sustainable living and hold a book signing after the dedication.