GARICK AND BLUESTEM TO PARTNER IN MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION

03/05/04

CLEVELAND, Ohio – March 5, 2004 - Garick ( www.garick.com ), a nationwide distributor and processor of sustainable natural resource products, announces that they will be managing all sales, distribution, and marketing for Bluestem Solid Waste Agency ( www.bluestem.org ), including the Big Blue ™ label.

Big Blue ™ products include bulk and bagged topsoil, potting soil, compost, humus and mulches. These products are produced in Cedar Rapids , IA from yard waste, leaves, and other organic materials generated by Linn County residents and industries.

“Bluestem has had great success manufacturing excellent products from organic materials diverted from our landfills,” said Karmin Bradbury, Bluestem Solid Waste Agency Executive Director. “This partnership with Garick will serve to move the products from our site to [customers] across the Midwest.”

With over 40 terminals and ports located throughout the United States and Canada, Garick has the capability to supply a complete range of products in bags, bales, bulk or barges throughout the world. Garick will be able to secure additional customers for Big Blue ™ products due to well-established relationships with both bulk and packaged retailers and end users.

In addition, Garick's Paygro division ( www.paygro.com ) is a major supplier to the landscape, horticultural, and lawn and garden industries. Paygro produces many of its products utilizing the Paygro System™, a patented world-class composting method.

“We are really excited about working with Garick. They will bring much needed compost marketing expertise to Bluestem,” explained Bradbury.

Gary Trinetti, President and CEO of Garick, says, "We believe in partnering strategically with the public and private sectors to redirect organic waste streams back to the earth in ways that are enhancing people's lives and the environment. We want our partners and Garick to be recognized as leaders in the practice of Sustainability.”

The Bluestem Solid Waste Agency was created in 1994 by the City of Cedar Rapids and Linn County to manage waste, compost and recyclables generated by the residents of Linn County.

Garick's administrative offices are located in Cleveland, Ohio. This facility houses the administrative and logistical support functions for the entire organization, as well as a wholesale distribution center.