via Aquatic Gardeners Association
Have you seen it yet… AGA Convention registration is officially live! Sacramento is about to be packed with planted tanks, live demos, field trips, vendors, aquascaping talks, and all the “stand around a tank and nerd out” moments you can handle. Expect hands-on learning, inspiring layouts, and a whole weekend hanging with people who get just as excited about new growth and good hardscape as you do.
Thinking about going? Take this as your sign. Grab your spot, pack your plant stories, and come be part of the fun. https://www.aga2026.org/
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Editor’s Note: Three AMAZONAS team members (Alex Rose, Stephan Tanner, and myself, Matt Pedersen) were fortunate enough to attend the 2022 AGA Convention in Chicago, I think we would all wholeheartedly agree that whether you are a veteran aquascaper or just “planted tank curious”, heck, even if you’re into landscaping and gardening and terrariums and just thinking trying this out in an aquarium setting might be fun, this is an event not to be missed. Particularly since the AGA does not historically hold a convention every year.
I also want to give a personal, resounding endorsement for the AGA’s workshops; don’t hesitate, sign up and participate. They are more than worth the price, and entry might be limited. In 2022, actually had my then 8-year-old daughter participate, and she still has the aquarium running in her bedroom. She also still remembers a couple of the women she met during that time; they made an impression on her. I’ll give a personal thanks to all the manufacturers and sponsors who support this event and these workshops, as I can tell you it is worthwhile and likely paying good dividends for the hobby!
When you’re a hobbyist and an event like this is local to you, DO NOT waffle, do not hem and haw, do not hesitate, GO DO IT. RIGHT NOW. Particularly if it’s just a short car drive vs. a plane flight, you’re one of the lucky ones who has a built-in discount to attend. You have no excuse! Treat yourself, because this is like a once-in-a-lifetime deal for you!
So buy your tickets, book your rooms, sell this event out! Vote with your wallets. Get off the screen for a weekend. Get out in the real world with real people. Have real face-to-face conversations. Make new fish friends.
My kids say, “touch grass.” I say, “get your hands wet, touch some aquarium plants and aquasoils” at the AGA Convention next April! – Matt Pedersen
