Friday is the grand opening of the first phase of Texas A&M's multi million dollar nature area on the west campus.

Program Manager Julie Wilson at A&M's college of agriculture and life sciences, speaking on WTAW's The Infomaniacs says the first phase of "The Gardens" is a seven acre plot of different gardens that can be recreated at home.

Examples in the first phase are a vineyard, a German and Czech heritage section, a rose garden, and a herb garden.

In addition to what Wilson calls vignettes, the development has event spaces that includes a pavilion and a Mexican heritage garden that can host small weddings.

Wilson says the idea originated with the retired dean of the agriculture college, Dr. Mark Hussey, and has involved all the AgriLife divisions.

When completed, the development will cover 40 acres along White Creek.

"The Gardens" is located behind the AgriLife Center at the intersection of John Kimbrough and Penberthy, across from Reed Arena.

Friday's ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m. Parking for Friday's event is available at Reed Arena.

There is no admission charge, and it is open to the public daily between dawn and dusk.