Gardens of Alcatraz Island - Docent Tours of the Softer Side of THE ROCK February 18, 2011

Experience the softer side of "THE ROCK" with free docent-led tours into the rehabilitated garden areas on FRIDAYS and SUNDAYS.

Hear stories of inmates and families who worked in the gardens, which were abandoned in 1963. Learn how the current garden staff and volunteers are using green gardening practices to nurture survivor plants and bring the island’s gardens to life again, despite its lack of water.

Tour participants must take the first boat departing from San Francisco (approximately 9am), then gather at the dock on Alcatraz for the tour after the Park Ranger announcements. FREE with ticket for boat to Alcatraz. 415-981-ROCK(7625). Boats depart from Pier 33 in San Francisco. www.alcatrazgardens.org For more information about the Garden Conservancy's preservation project on Alcatraz and other gardens across the U.S., visit www.gardenconservancy.org

Official Website: http://www.alcatrazgardens.org