The 2010 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
Provide a forum for sharing the most successful techniques utilized by participants to increase the effective impact of Master Gardeners. Share highlights from three approaches implemented at Clemson, University of Georgia, and Alabama Cooperative Extension Service to utilize Master Gardener service more effectively.

If Extension is to continue to meet the demand for home horticulture information, Master Gardeners are the logical choice to help “pick up the slack” due to continued streamlining of Extension Service budgets and personnel. The goal of this workshop is to determine effective techniques to accomplish this and provide a forum to share these ideas.

Three speakers will jump start the brainstorming workshop by presenting a successful technique used to increase impact of Master Gardeners in their states.  The proposed speakers and their topics follow:

            Ellen Bauske, University of Georgia, will outline two advanced trainings for Master Gardeners designed to expand their outreach into urban forestry and urban water issues.  These trainings have impacted the activities of both Master Gardeners and the agents involved.

            Tim Davis, Clemson University, will present an online system that captures Master Gardener activities and facilitates impact reporting.  Master Gardeners are energized by the system and the impact reports have fostered friendly competition between counties, encouraging greater participation.

            Kerry Smith, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, will share the success of the Master Gardener Helpline.  Supported by 14 Master Gardener offices, the toll-free line is volunteer manned and administered.  Volunteers handle many routine inquiries, freeing agents for other activities.             

Workshop participants will be divided into groups and given a charge to determine ways to increase effectiveness of Master Gardeners based on their experiences with their Master Gardener programs.  Each group will then report and share these techniques with the entire group.