Tag Archives: Extension updates

Linn Master Gardener eNews

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  • Please bookmark the Volunteer Resource Page. It has newsletter archives, an updated volunteer sourcebook, continuing education opportunities, and volunteering opportunities. It is your one-stop source for program essentials!
  • Have an item for eNews? Please contact staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.
New – continuing education and garden lab opportunity!
Feb 8 Fruit Tree Pruning Demonstration – Albany 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Albany, OR with Erica Chernoh, Horticulture Faculty. Free, drop in.

Shout outs

  • Welcome trainees! If this is your first eNews please take your time to explore. You’ll find events, news, volunteer opportunities, and garden labs. Check out the headliner event, above, which is an option for garden lab credit.
  • 9th Annual BEEvent. 9th Annual BEEvent Pollinator Conference- March 4, 2023, Linn Expo Center, Albany, Oregon. “Adapting Your Garden to the Coming Changes”. This in-person conference is back after a 2-year online-only presence. Focus on Home Gardens and Small Farms. 9:00am – 3:30pm Registration has been postponed briefly due to circumstances beyond our control. It will open soon at www.LinnMasterGardeners.com
  • Extension News
    • Volunteer Reporting System updates. The statewide Master Gardener volunteer reporting system is now more secure. It also has a new look and feel. Please bookmark the new site: https://vrs.osumg.org/ When you log in, follow the steps to update your password. Tech Support is at https://vrs.osumg.org/help/ (Trainees – please wait on making accounts until prompted – thanks!)
    • **New information about emerald ash borer.** We know you may be concerned about your ash trees with the news of the arrival of the emerald ash borer. It’s important to know what to look for. A new guide developed by OSU Extension faculty can help you distinguish the effects of emerald ash borer from those of typical ash pests. Many new photos in the guide show the holes of emerald ash borer and the trees in Forest Grove, Oregon infested with the invasive pest.  
    • The Grow This! Oregon Garden Challenge, Oregon State University Extension’s statewide seed giveaway, returns for a fourth year in 2023 featuring a continued partnership with the Oregon Potato Commission.
      • Starting Feb. 6, individuals and households, schools and groups can sign up to receive an individual/household seed kit, group kit or seed-starting teacher classroom kit through the mail. 
    • Coffee chats are back for 2023! If you are a board member, committee chair, or engaged volunteer, this is a chance to visit informally with program staff (Elza). Learn more and sign up HERE.
    • NEW! EM 9380 Oregon Ash: Insects, Pathogens and Tree Health Published January 2023.
    • Popular this week: EM 9277 Trees and Shrubs for Fall and Winter Bloom
    • Dirt! The Movie: Gail’s Answers to Questions for Reflection. Oregon State University (OSU) kicked off their 41st annual Martin Luther King, Jr. commemoration event. For the fourth consecutive year, the OSU Extension Master Gardener program hosted a commemoration event. In advance of the movie, we shared three questions that we asked attendees to reflect upon during the movie. In an effort to spur discussion, I (Statewide MG program coordinator) wanted to share my answers to these three questions. I invite you to share your answers, in the comments section. Read the blog.
  • LCMGA News
    • OSU Extension Needs Assessment Committee and OMGA Advocacy Committee: The Needs Assessment group will be sending out a questionnaire to all Master Gardeners. Please take the time to do it. It will provide vital information to inform the OSU Extension administration about the Master Gardener program’s needs. OMGA Advocacy group is launching a campaign to push for more state funding for Extension programs. They are asking MGs to contact their legislators to ask that Extension funding be increased. See the 6-month action plan and timeline in the link. It is not too soon to start now. This is extremely important to the future vitality of Master Gardeners and Extension as a whole. View the presentation here.
    • PNW Brownbag lunchtime talks – new location! Noon to 1 p.m. at the OSU Linn County Extension office 33630 McFarland Rd, Tangent, OR 97389
      • Feb 9 Spring Insects presented by Rich Little
      • Feb 23 Climate Change presented by Betty Goergen
      • Mar 9 Community Garden presented by Mich Sweigert
      • Mar 16 Garden Planning presented by Karin Magnuson
      • Mar 23 TBA
  • Volunteer opportunities [T] = includes opportunities that trainees can join now!
    • [T] BEEvent! March 4, 2023. The committee is still looking for some additional helpers. Learn more and RSVP. Report service as Fundraiser: Support.
    • GARDEN EDUCATION CLASSES Help develop gardening classes at the Demo Garden for 2023. We have two beds set aside at the Demo Garden and two beds at Willamette Community Garden to use to teach gardening classes. Classes will start in early 2023 and will be similar to Seed to Supper but with a hands-on approach. Want to help design the classes email me, Betty at goergenb@gmail.com. Report service as Instructor: Direct
    • [T] Community science. Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
    • Find ongoing and anytime opportunities on the Linn Volunteer Opportunities Page
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • None this week.

Benton Master Gardener eNews

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Bookmark our page: Find newsletter archives, volunteer handbook and more volunteer opportunities at https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/

Share an item for eNews by contacting your program staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.

BCMGA Membership Meeting: The first membership meeting of the new year will be held on Monday, January 30 in the Sunset Room of the Sunset Building. It will also be available via Zoom. Please enter by the east side door rather than the front entrance if you attend in person. The speaker will be Stephanie Hazen who will discuss Monarch Butterflies and plants that support them beyond Milkweed. Doors open at 6:30, the program begins at 7:00. Photo by James Wheeler on Unsplash
  • Shout outs
    • 1/24 & 1/26 – Learn About the Oregon Season Tracker Program! Are you interested in how the seasons change throughout Oregon? The OSU Extension Oregon Season Tracker program engages volunteer observers across the state who report their local precipitation patterns and plant phenology by monitoring rain gauges and observing native plants in their backyards, farms, woodlands, and schools. Join us to learn more about the Oregon Season Tracker community science program – including how the data contributions help climate science researchers in Oregon and beyond and how you can volunteer! Webinars will be hosted on January 24, 2-3 pm, and January 26, 6-7 pm. Learn more and register at: https://beav.es/5BV. A recording will be sent out to those who register but are unable to attend, for any questions please contact Sarah at sarah.cameron@oregonstate.edu.  Report service as Citizen Science: indirect.
    • Insights into Gardening is sold out! Wow! For folks who are sad that they missed this, invite them to check out our many other great events.
  • BCMGA News
    • OSU Extension Needs Assessment Committee and OMGA Advocacy Committee: BCMGA member Judith Kenner is serving on these two committees. The Needs Assessment group will be sending out a questionnaire to all Master Gardeners. Please take the time to do it. It will provide vital information to inform the OSU Extension administration about Master Gardener program needs. OMGA Advocacy group is launching a campaign to push for more state funding for Extension programs. They are asking MGs to contact their legislators to ask that Extension funding be increased. See the 6-month action plan and time line in the link. It is not too soon to start now. This is extremely important to the future vitality of Master Gardeners and Extension as a whole. View the presentation here.
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • Grow a LatinX Garden!
      • For the past three years, a group of Master Gardeners has maintained an educational demo garden at Calvin Community Garden next to Calvin Presbyterian Church. The crops in this garden are carefully selected to be culturally appropriate for LatinX communities, crops with which many of us were unfamiliar, like chilacayote and epazote, as well as tomatoes, peppers, and tomatillos. Produce donations to Food Banks have averaged 500 pounds per year.
      • BCMGA paid for the construction of six raised beds at the garden. We use those beds as well as one large in-ground garden plot to raise the vegetables. With the departure of some of the Master Gardeners who helped with the Calvin garden, we are in search of Master Gardeners or Master Gardener Trainees who could help us to maintain those gardens by planting, weeding, watering and/or harvesting.
      • If you have a couple of hours a week to donate to this effort, we would LOVE to talk more with you. If you happen speak Spanish, even better, although that’s not a requirement. We share the work with a flexible schedule to accommodate times that are convenient for you including weekends. We need to know by the end of February or early March that we have a minimal crew to support this garden or we will have to discontinue our efforts.
      • We have offered educational workshops in Spanish as well. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the broader community, use your Spanish language skills and have a lot of fun. We would like to continue the tradition. This is another opportunity that is a more concentrated effort. Spanish is not required for support roles.
      • If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Ellen Tappon, eltapp@gmail.com, or Lynn Trimpe, trimpelynn@gmail.com.
    • Demo Garden 2023 is starting up! On Tuesday, January 24, 12-3, we are planning projects, selecting vegetables and discussing new growing ideas. The planning meeting is at the Extension office in the conference room. Potluck first, discussion second. If you’re interested in volunteering at the Demo Garden, at the Benton County Fairgrounds come and help us figure out what we’re going to do. We love to have new members and if you have ideas for projects, even better.
    • Questions? Call or text Rosalind at 541-908-3991 or Dan at 805-490-1014.
    • NEW! The Plant Sale Propagation team will be seeding many new fun and interesting perennials at the Philomath High School Greenhouse, 2054 Applegate St Saturday, January 28 -10am-12pm (We’re trying another weekend date for MGs that work or can’t attend during the week.) All MGs are welcome to come help! Please reach out to Leslie, lesliehauser107@gmail.com, if you have any questions or need help finding the greenhouse.
    • Plant Problem Scenarios 2023 – Calling all returning Master Gardeners! Join the fun! Meet and get to know the 2023 Master Gardeners Trainees and help prepare them for the help desk and clinic tables. Are you a  recent graduate? Participating as a facilitator in Plant Problem Scenarios will be an excellent way to get acquainted with experienced facilitators.  And our introduction/refresher sessions for facilitating the scenarios will not only sharpen up your skills but also be a fantastic time for new and experienced MGs to socialize.
      •  For the 2023 trainees, we will be conducting four scenario sessions in February (Feb 2, 9, 16, 23) from (10:30  to 11:45  ) in the Benton County Extension Sunset room.  Each session will end with a presentation by 2-3 committee chairs and a brown bag meet and greet.  The facilitators will work in teams of 2.  Don’t worry if you are new to PPS, we will pair you up with someone who is experienced. Note: You do not have to attend all four sessions! (Although we would love it if you did!) Learn more and sign up HERE.Contact Deb Kern (NewfandCardi@gmail.com) or Ann Brodie (annbrodie143@comcast.net) for more details. 
    • The Public Seed Library is a new collaborative project of the Benton County Master Gardeners and the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, with the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library serving as the host partner. The free, volunteer-run Public Seed Library is expected to open at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library downtown by March ’23. Learn more and donate seeds. New volunteer opportunities coming soon!
    • Volunteer for Insights into Gardening: Saturday, February 11, 2023. Insights into Gardening is coming and we need your skills, and you need volunteer hours for 2023! Registration opens on January 2nd for the classes. As you are thinking about the classes you want to take at Insights, you can also sign up for a needed task. Many of the tasks allow you to attend classes but you must register in advance. Any questions about volunteering for a specific task, contact Susan Hoffman, shoff@peak.org.
      • SIGN UP HERE. Note there are two tabs with different jobs on each.
    • Help kids learn cultural connection and conservation at dual immersion schools in Corvallis! The Willamette-Laja Twinning Partnership needs Master Gardener expertise for planning bird/pollinator and food gardens, and leading school volunteers and students in successfully installing the gardens. To learn more please contact Elza.
    • Community science – Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • Soil Amendment Sale: Order soil amendments and feed the microbes, fungi, and other members of the soil micro-herd, who will in turn help feed your plants and give you a bountiful harvest! We also offer a wide selection of propagation supplies, organic pest controls, cover crop seeds, and poultry/livestock supplies. Order with us to get bulk pricing and save on freight charges. We’ll group your order with those of other local farmers and gardeners so we all share in the savings. Proceeds help support Ten Rivers Food Web.

Linn Master Gardener eNews

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  • Please bookmark the Volunteer Resource Page. It has newsletter archives, an updated volunteer sourcebook, continuing education opportunities, and volunteering opportunities. It is your one-stop source for program essentials!
  • Have an item for eNews? Please contact staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.
  • A call to action for gardeners: Dirt! The Movie screening! As part of OSU’s 41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration 2023, the OSU Extension Master Gardener program is proud to host an online movie screening of Dirt! The Movie.
    • When: Monday, January 16th at 3:00 pm
    • Where: online at https://kosmi.app/bllb9i
    • We’ll be screening the movie online with an opportunity to chat with other attendees throughout the movie. No registration required. Free. Report this experience for continuing education – when you log your time, include your reflections on the three questions found HERE.
  • Shout outs
    • From Gail Langelotto, Statewide Program Coordinator: “July 2023 will mark my 16-year anniversary at Oregon State University (OSU). I’ve loved my time working in the Master Gardener Program. But, it is time to move on to new opportunities. I will be staying at OSU, where I will be transitioning to a research/teaching position on July 1st. The change will give me time to focus on my research with the OSU Garden Ecology Lab, and to pursue some novel opportunities in supporting native plant producers, hydroponics, insect husbandry, urban agriculture, and environmental microbiomes . . . all of which are super interesting, but not directly germane to the work of the Master Gardener program… As I look back on my time in the Master Gardener Program, I am both proud of the work that I have done, and excited for what is yet to come.” Read the post.
    • Saturday! – Seed Swap at the Albany Library Jan 14, 2023. Help people select seeds and answer garden questions at this fun event. Assist with set up and clean up. Learn more and sign up.
    • Saturday training session! Plant Problem Scenarios 2023- Calling all returning Master Gardeners! Join the fun! Meet and get to know the 2023 Master Gardeners Trainees and help prepare them for the help desk and clinic tables. Working on recertification? Collaborate with a certified peer volunteer and earn the direct service hours you need. Are you a  recent graduate? Participating as a facilitator in Plant Problem Scenarios will be an excellent way to get acquainted with experienced facilitators.  And our introduction/refresher sessions for facilitating the scenarios will not only sharpen up your skills but also be a fantastic time for new and experienced MGs to socialize. Learn more and sign up HERE.
  • LCMGA News
    • Save the date – 9th Annual BEEvent. 9th Annual BEEvent Pollinator Conference- March 4, 2023, Linn Expo Center, Albany, Oregon. “Adapting Your Garden to the Coming Changes”. This in-person conference is back after a 2 year on-line only presence. Focus on Home Gardens and Small Farms. 9:00am – 3:30pm Registration will open in February: www.LinnMasterGardeners.com
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • New – BEEvent! March 4, 2023. The committee is still looking for some additional helpers. Learn more and RSVP.
    • New – Learn About the Oregon Season Tracker Program! Are you interested in how the seasons change throughout Oregon? The OSU Extension Oregon Season Tracker program engages volunteer observers across the state who report their local precipitation patterns and plant phenology by monitoring rain gauges and observing native plants in their backyards, farms, woodlands, and schools. Join us to learn more about the Oregon Season Tracker community science program – including how the data contributions help climate science researchers in Oregon and beyond and how you can volunteer! Webinars will be hosted on January 24, 2-3 pm, and January 26, 6-7 pm. Learn more and register at: https://beav.es/5BV. A recording will be sent out to those who register but are unable to attend, for any questions please contact Sarah at sarah.cameron@oregonstate.edu.  Report service as Citizen Science: indirect.
    • GARDEN EDUCATION CLASSES Help develop gardening classes at the Demo Garden for 2023. We have two beds set aside at the Demo Garden and two beds at Willamette Community Garden to use to teach gardening classes. Classes will start in early 2023 and will be similar to Seed to Supper but with a hands-on approach. Want to help design the classes email me, Betty at goergenb@gmail.com. Perfect way to earn Direct Education hours.
    • Community science. Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
    • Find ongoing and anytime opportunities on the Linn Volunteer Opportunities Page
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • Soil Amendment Sale: Order soil amendments and feed the microbes, fungi, and other members of the soil micro-herd, who will in turn help feed your plants and give you a bountiful harvest! We also offer a wide selection of propagation supplies, organic pest controls, cover crop seeds, and poultry/livestock supplies. Order with us to get bulk pricing and save on freight charges. We’ll group your order with those of other local farmers and gardeners so we all share in the savings. Proceeds help support Ten Rivers Food Web.
    • Jan 14 Community Seed Swap – Albany Library 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Albany, OR. Bring seeds to share and get new ones. Find volunteering information above.

Benton Master Gardener eNews

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Bookmark our page: Find newsletter archives, volunteer handbook and more volunteer opportunities at https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/

Share an item for eNews by contacting your program staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.

A call to action for gardeners: Dirt! The Movie screening! As part of OSU’s 41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration 2023, the OSU Extension Master Gardener program is proud to host an online movie screening of Dirt! The Movie.
When: Monday, January 16th at 3:00 pm
Where: online at https://kosmi.app/bllb9i
We’ll be screening the movie online with an opportunity to chat with other attendees throughout the movie. No registration required. Free. Report this experience for continuing education – when you log your time, include your reflections on the three questions found HERE.

  • Shout outs
    • From Gail Langelotto, Statewide Program Coordinator: “July 2023 will mark my 16-year anniversary at Oregon State University (OSU). I’ve loved my time working in the Master Gardener Program. But, it is time to move on to new opportunities. I will be staying at OSU, where I will be transitioning to a research/teaching position on July 1st. The change will give me time to focus on my research with the OSU Garden Ecology Lab, and to pursue some novel opportunities in supporting native plant producers, hydroponics, insect husbandry, urban agriculture, and environmental microbiomes . . . all of which are super interesting, but not directly germane to the work of the Master Gardener program… As I look back on my time in the Master Gardener Program, I am both proud of the work that I have done, and excited for what is yet to come.” Read the post.
    • Local newspapers published a great article on the Public Seed Library! Nice work Jill Farrow!
    • Insights into Gardening – February 11, 2023! Online registration and a full class schedule is now available HERE.
  • Extension News
    • Coffee chats are back for 2023! If you are a board member, committee chair, or engaged volunteer, this is a chance to visit informally with program staff (Elza). Learn more and sign up HERE.
  • BCMGA News
    • Membership Meeting: The first membership meeting of the new year will be held on Monday, January 30 in the Sunset Room of the Sunset Building. It will also be available via Zoom. Please enter by the east side door rather than the front entrance if you attend in person. The speaker will be Stephanie Hazen who will discuss Monarch Butterflies and plants that support them beyond Milkweed. Doors open at 6:30, the program begins at 7:00.
    • OMGA would like to invite you to join in to help with the planning of our Joy of Gardening Conference 2023. Our first meeting is set for Friday, December 16 at 3 PM. Check the email newsletter for a link to join.
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • Plant Problem Scenarios 2023 – Calling all certified Master Gardeners! Join the fun! Meet and get to know the 2023 Master Gardeners Trainees and help prepare them for the help desk and clinic tables. Are you a  recent graduate? Participating as a facilitator in Plant Problem Scenarios will be an excellent way to get acquainted with experienced facilitators.  And our introduction/refresher sessions for facilitating the scenarios will not only sharpen up your skills but also be a fantastic time for new and experienced MGs to socialize.
      • We will be holding the group leader training sessions on Wed Jan 11, 2023, at the Benton County Extension office conference room (1:30 pm – 3:30 pm).   
      • For the 2023 trainees, we will be conducting four scenario sessions in February (Feb 2, 9, 16, 23) from (10:30  to 11:45  ) in the Benton County Extension Sunset room.  Each session will end with a presentation by 2-3 committee chairs and a brown bag meet and greet.  The facilitators will work in teams of 2.  Don’t worry if you are new to PPS, we will pair you up with someone who is experienced. Note: You do not have to attend all four sessions! (Although we would love it if you did!) 
      • Learn more and sign up HERE.
      • Contact Deb Kern (NewfandCardi@gmail.com) or Ann Brodie (annbrodie143@comcast.net) for more details. 
    • NEW! Volunteer for Insights into Gardening: Saturday, February 11, 2023. Insights into Gardening is coming and we need your skills, and you need volunteer hours for 2023! Registration opens on January 2nd for the classes. As you are thinking about the classes you want to take at Insights, you can also sign up for a needed task. Many of the tasks allow you to attend classes but you must register in advance. Any questions about volunteering for a specific task, contact Susan Hoffman, shoff@peak.org.
      • SIGN UP HERE. Note there are two tabs with different jobs on each.
    • Learn About the Oregon Season Tracker Program! Are you interested in how the seasons change throughout Oregon? The OSU Extension Oregon Season Tracker program engages volunteer observers across the state who report their local precipitation patterns and plant phenology by monitoring rain gauges and observing native plants in their backyards, farms, woodlands, and schools. Join us to learn more about the Oregon Season Tracker community science program – including how the data contributions help climate science researchers in Oregon and beyond and how you can volunteer! Webinars will be hosted on January 24, 2-3 pm, and January 26, 6-7 pm. Learn more and register at: https://beav.es/5BV. A recording will be sent out to those who register but are unable to attend, for any questions please contact Sarah at sarah.cameron@oregonstate.edu.  Report service as Citizen Science: indirect.
    • Help kids learn cultural connection and conservation at dual immersion schools in Corvallis! The Willamette-Laja Twinning Partnership needs Master Gardener expertise for planning bird/pollinator and food gardens, and leading school volunteers and students in successfully installing the gardens. To learn more please contact Elza.
    • Community science – Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • Soil Amendment Sale: Order soil amendments and feed the microbes, fungi, and other members of the soil micro-herd, who will in turn help feed your plants and give you a bountiful harvest! We also offer a wide selection of propagation supplies, organic pest controls, cover crop seeds, and poultry/livestock supplies. Order with us to get bulk pricing and save on freight charges. We’ll group your order with those of other local farmers and gardeners so we all share in the savings. Proceeds help support Ten Rivers Food Web.
    • The Public Seed Library is a new collaborative project of the Benton County Master Gardeners and the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, with the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library serving as the host partner. The free, volunteer-run Public Seed Library is expected to open at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library downtown by March ’23. Learn more and donate seeds.
    • Jan 14 Community Seed Swap – Albany Library 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Albany, OR
    • Continuing education opportunity: The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration recognizes the legacy of Dr. King and allows the Oregon State community to reflect on his work. The 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration keynote speaker is Jelani Cobb. Learn more and reserve a seat, or find out how to watch online

Linn Master Gardener eNews

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  • Please bookmark the Volunteer Resource Page. It has newsletter archives, an updated volunteer sourcebook, continuing education opportunities, and volunteering opportunities. It is your one-stop source for program essentials!
  • Have an item for eNews? Please contact staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.
Help kids learn cultural connection and conservation at Tangent Elementary and Southshore Elementary! The Willamette-Laja Twinning Partnership needs Master Gardener expertise for planning bird/pollinator and food gardens, and leading school volunteers and students in successfully installing the gardens. To learn more please contact Elza. Image: a grade-school student’s drawing of a watershed connecting gardens and nature.
  • Shout outs
    • Extension holiday closures happen between 12/24/2022 – 1/2/2023. eNews and plant clinics will be on break during this time.
    • Via Elizabeth Records: “I have a new nickname – Elza. I am still fine with Elizabeth, too, but wanted to share a more informal option. I have never had a nickname that I like, but now I do!”
    • You are invited to meet 2023 applicants and share your experiences with being a Master Gardener! Please RSVP to Elizabeth for one of these hourlong events:
      • Tue 1/3/2023 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Tangent
      • Thu 1/5/2023 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Tangent
      • Sat 1/7/2023 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM ZOOM
    • Certified MGs – Please RSVP to be a “buddy” and introduce 1-2 trainees to your favorite MG activities. You do not need to know all MG skills and tools. If interested please contact Elza for questions.
  • Extension News
    • From Ivory W. Lyles, PhD, Director, OSU Extension Service: “We couldn’t do the work of OSU Extension without our volunteers. Thank you for serving your community in so many ways, and for all you do to help OSU Extension and Oregonians thrive! You continued to magnify our community impact as we navigated transitioning operations in a post-pandemic environment. I and all of us in Extension are grateful for your commitment to helping communities, families, youth, and all who are eager to learn. I wish you and yours wonderful holidays and look forward to continuing to lift up your impactful work in the coming year.”
    • Coffee chats are back for 2023! If you are a board member, committee chair, or engaged volunteer, this is a chance to visit informally with program staff (Elza). Learn more and sign up HERE.
    • FS 147 Picking and Storing Apples and Pears Revised December 2022
  • LCMGA News
    • Save the date – 9th Annual BEEvent. 9th Annual BEEvent Pollinator Conference- March 4, 2023, Linn Expo Center, Albany, Oregon. “Adapting Your Garden to the Coming Changes”. This in-person conference is back after a 2 year on-line only presence. Focus on Home Gardens and Small Farms. 9:00am – 3:30pm Registration will open in February: www.LinnMasterGardeners.com
    • Reminder to pay your membership dues: LCMGA online dues payment: https://linnmastergardeners.com/product/dues for questions contact Betty Goergen: goergenb@gmail.com. You may also mail checks made out to LCMGA to the Extension Office at 33630 McFarland Rd, Tangent, OR 97389  
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • Seed Swap at the Albany Library Saturday, Jan 14, 2023. I need 2-3 MGs to help people select seeds and answer garden questions at this fun event. Assist with set up and clean up. Seeking 2-3 volunteers to help from 1:30-4:30. Please contact Elza to RSVP.
    • Plant Problem Scenarios 2023- Calling all certified Master Gardeners! Join the fun! Meet and get to know the 2023 Master Gardeners Trainees and help prepare them for the help desk and clinic tables. Are you a  recent graduate? Participating as a facilitator in Plant Problem Scenarios will be an excellent way to get acquainted with experienced facilitators.  And our introduction/refresher sessions for facilitating the scenarios will not only sharpen up your skills but also be a fantastic time for new and experienced MGs to socialize. Learn more and sign up HERE.
    • GARDEN EDUCATION CLASSES Help develop gardening classes at the Demo Garden for 2023. We have two beds set aside at the Demo Garden and two beds at Willamette Community Garden to use to teach gardening classes. Classes will start in early 2023 and will be similar to Seed to Supper but with a hands-on approach. Want to help design the classes email me, Betty at goergenb@gmail.com. Perfect way to earn Direct Education hours.
    • Community science. Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
    • Find ongoing and anytime opportunities on the Linn Volunteer Opportunities Page
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • Donate and bring home seeds at the Albany Library Seed Swap on 1/14 from 2-3PM. Interested in volunteering? Information is above.

Benton Master Gardener eNews

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Bookmark our page: Find newsletter archives, volunteer handbook and more volunteer opportunities at https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/

Share an item for eNews by contacting your program staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.

Jan 3 -Feb 28
Gearing Up For Gardening
12:00 pm – 12:00 pm Corvallis, OR
  • Shout outs
    • Via Elizabeth Records: “I have a new nickname – Elza. I am still fine with Elizabeth, too, but wanted to share a more informal option. I have never had a nickname that I like, but now I do!”
    • 12/16 Plant propagation @10am-12pm – Philomath High School, 2054 Applegate Street. We will seed perennials inside the greenhouse and also repot nursery plant donations outdoors. We’ll have canopies up to provide as much cover as possible but you may want to wear warm clothes and rain gear just in case. 
    • The Extension office will be closed 12/24/2022 – 1/2/2023.
    • You are invited to meet 2023 applicants and share your experiences with being a Master Gardener! Please RSVP to Elza for one of these hourlong events:
      • Wed 1/4/2023 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Corvallis
      • Fri 1/6/2023 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Corvallis
      • Sat 1/7/2023 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM ZOOM
    • Seeking project leaders – MLK Day of Service at Lupe’s Garden in Philomath. Collaborate with garden volunteers to construct a 3-bin compost system similar to this one and/or apply wood chips to paths. This type of service project is typically outside the MG wheelhouse but for MLK day we have the go-ahead to support a community organization with a hands-on task. Interested? Please contact Elza.
    • Help kids learn cultural connection and conservation at dual immersion schools in Corvallis! The Willamette-Laja Twinning Partnership needs Master Gardener expertise for planning bird/pollinator and food gardens, and leading school volunteers and students in successfully installing the gardens. To learn more please contact Elza.
  • Extension News
    • Did you watch one or several of the webinars that were part of the Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up Series in 2021 or 2022?  If so, we would love to learn from you to get a better understanding of how you have used the information from the webinars.  Please complete this short survey, which should take no more than 5-10 minutes, and please submit your survey response by Monday, December 19th. Follow this link to the Survey: https://oregonstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_40X575BBx513j3o Your responses will help us plan programs that fit the needs of gardeners across Oregon. Thank you!
    • Coffee chats are back for 2023! If you are a board member, committee chair, or engaged volunteer, this is a chance to visit informally with program staff (Elza). Learn more and sign up HERE.
  • BCMGA News
    • Membership Meeting: The first membership meeting of the new year will be held on Monday, January 30 in the Sunset Room of the Sunset Building. It will also be available via Zoom. Please enter by the east side door rather than the front entrance if you attend in person. The speaker will be Stephanie Hazen who will discuss Monarch Butterflies and plants that support them beyond Milkweed. Doors open at 6:30, the program begins at 7:00.
    • OMGA would like to invite you to join in to help with the planning of our Joy of Gardening Conference 2023. Our first meeting is set for Friday, December 16 at 3 PM. Check the email newsletter for a link to join.
    • Via Jana Tindall: “reminder to pay your membership dues as soon as possible. Dues are $15 (plus a small fee if you use a credit card).
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • New BCMGA Plant Sale opportunities
      • Friday, December 30 – 10am-12pm – Philomath High School, 2054 Applegate Street, We will be seeding more perennials inside the greenhouse where it will be warm and toasty!
      • Plant Problem Scenarios 2023- Calling all certified Master Gardeners! Join the fun! Meet and get to know the 2023 Master Gardeners Trainees and help prepare them for the help desk and clinic tables. Are you a  recent graduate? Participating as a facilitator in Plant Problem Scenarios will be an excellent way to get acquainted with experienced facilitators.  And our introduction/refresher sessions for facilitating the scenarios will not only sharpen up your skills but also be a fantastic time for new and experienced MGs to socialize.
        • We will be holding the group leader training sessions on Wed Jan 11, 2023, at the Benton County Extension office conference room (1:30 pm – 3:30 pm).  Sign-ups coming soon! 
        • For the 2023 trainees, we will be conducting four scenario sessions in February (Feb 2, 9, 16, 23) from (10:30  to 11:45  ) in the Benton County Extension Sunset room.  Each session will end with a presentation by 2-3 committee chairs and a brown bag meet and greet.  The facilitators will work in teams of 2.  Don’t worry if you are new to PPS, we will pair you up with someone who is experienced. Note: You do not have to attend all four sessions! (Although we would love it if you did!) 
        • Contact Deb Kern (NewfandCardi@gmail.com) or Ann Brodie (annbrodie143@comcast.net) for more details. 
      • Community science. Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • The Public Seed Library is a new collaborative project of the Benton County Master Gardeners and the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, with the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library serving as the host partner. The free, volunteer-run Public Seed Library is expected to open at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library downtown by March ’23. Learn more and donate seeds.
    • Jan 14 Community Seed Swap – Albany Library 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Albany, OR

Benton Master Gardener eNews

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Bookmark our page: Find newsletter archives, volunteer handbook and more volunteer opportunities at https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/

Share an item for eNews by contacting your program staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.

A person holds a selection of seed packets. Credit: urbancow, Getty Images
A person holds a selection of seed packets. Credit: urbancow, Getty Images
  • Shout outs
    • 12/16 – BCMGA Greens Party – Gruber Hall, Benton County Fairgrounds, Tuesday, December 6th, 11 AM – 2 PM.
    • The Extension office will be closed 12/24/2022 – 1/2/2023.
    • The Public Seed Library is a new collaborative project of the Benton County Master Gardeners and the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, with the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library serving as the host partner. The free, volunteer-run Public Seed Library is expected to open at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library downtown by March ’23. Learn more and donate seeds.
    • You are invited to meet 2023 applicants and share your experiences with being a Master Gardener! Please RSVP to Elizabeth for one of these hourlong events:
      • Wed 1/4/2023 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Corvallis
      • Fri 1/6/2023 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Corvallis
      • Sat 1/7/2023 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM ZOOM
  • Extension News
    • People often inquire about how to harvest wild foods, something outside Master Gardener Program expertise. We’re excited that OSU Extension now offers a resource for safely harvesting and eating nettles. Colleagues with backgrounds in traditional ecological knowledge, food safety, and disaster preparedness contributed to this great new publication. And there is even information for growing this itchy but tasty plant in home gardens. Check it out HERE.
    • Explore Oregon Bees is a bee-themed nutrition and garden environmental education activity e-book developed at Oregon State University by the Oregon Bee Project and Food Hero. The readability is 5th grade and up, but there are activities, recipes and images engaging to all ages.
    • Considering a live Christmas tree that you can plant later? Master Gardener Leo researched several native conifers to help you compare their features in a handy list, picked as an Ask Extension question of the week.
  • BCMGA News
    • 12/12 – December BCMGA board meeting which includes orientation for the new board members. We will meet at 10:00 at the Calvin Presbyterian Church on Monday, December 12. The address is 1736 NW Dixon in Corvallis. Our regular board meeting will be approximately 10:00 – noon. We’ll break for lunch (bring your own) and then pass along the notebooks and some words of advice to the new board members. There will be a brief meeting of the new board after lunch.
    • Via Jana Tindall: “reminder to pay your membership dues as soon as possible. Dues are $15 (plus a small fee if you use a credit card).
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • New BCMGA Plant Sale opportunities
      • Saturday, December 3 – 10am-12pm – Philomath High School, 2054 Applegate Street, WEEKDAY WORKERS- THIS ONE IS FOR YOU! Seeding Perennials Work Session. Since some of our MGs work or go to school during the week, they haven’t been able to join us in awhile. Please RSVP to lesliehauser107@gmail.com  if you are able to come help seed perennials inside the greenhouse on this day. This will help us plan ahead and if we get a large turnout, we will try our best to continue to schedule weekend and/or evening work sessions. Low turnout and we may need to stick to the week day meet ups. Thanks for understanding. 
      • Friday, December 16 – 10am-12pm – Philomath High School, 2054 Applegate Street, We will seeding perennials inside the greenhouse and also repotting nursery plant donations outdoors. We’ll have canopies up to provide as much cover as possible but you may want to wear warm clothes and rain gear just in case. 
      • Friday, December 30 – 10am-12pm – Philomath High School, 2054 Applegate Street, We will be seeding more perennials inside the greenhouse where it will be warm and toasty!
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • None this week – check back next time.

Benton Master Gardener eNews

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Please bookmark the Volunteer Resource Page. It has newsletter archives, an updated volunteer sourcebook, continuing education opportunities, and volunteering opportunities. It is your one-stop source for program essentials!
Have an item for eNews? Please contact staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.
11/20 BCMGA members flash plant sale 11:00-2:00. Philomath High School Greenhouses, 2054 Applegate Street Philomath OR 97370 Enter parking at the west end of campus, near 20th. Trees, shrubs, perennials, and more! $1 off of each gallon or larger plants starting at 1:00pm. Cash, checks, or cards (with a small fee for purchases under $25) Important note:  Many of these plants are a bit pot bound and would love to get into the ground as soon as possible while the soil is still warm. Please bring your own boxes and be ready to have a fun shopping trip.
  • Extension News
    • Interested in organizing a service project for Martin Luther King, Junior Day? This could include community garden labor for a collaborating organization or similar tasks that are usually outside the MG scope of work. Please contact Elizabeth.
    • Growing & Belonging: Fall Update from Oregon State University Master Gardener Program. Autumnal greetings from your fellow Master Gardener volunteers, staff and faculty, participating in the statewide Growing and Belonging committee (formerly known as the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Taskforce). This is the first of four updates a year we will publish, sharing our work, findings, and resources to help keep you informed—and hopefully engaged— in creating a local Master Gardener program and association experience that is one of growing and belonging. 
  • BCMGA News
    • Via Jana Tindall: “reminder to pay your membership dues as soon as possible. Paula Lupcho will be attending the Graduation/Celebration on November 19 so you can pay in person there. Paula will accept cash, check or credit card. Dues are $15 (plus a small fee if you use a credit card).
    • 12/16 – Greens Party – Gruber Hall, Benton County Fairgrounds, Tuesday, December 6th 11 AM – 2 PM. Via Janet Magedanz – “If you’ve not done a holiday wreath before, the following are some ideas for items to add to “beautify” your wreath:Vines, dried flowers, colorful leaves, bark, moss, feathers, ferns, rosehips, berries on stems, hydrangea blossoms, Magnolia grandiflora leaves (the big leathery kind), Buxus stems (common box), Pieris stems. The fact that you don’t have conifers in your yard should not prevent you from going outside and gathering wreath-making supplies. I think including things from your yard makes the wreath much more meaningful.If you’ve got a wire or vine wreath frame, please bring it with you. If you do not, there are several in the BCMGA supplies so you’re welcome to use one of those. Last thought: I’ve bought several rolls of holiday ribbon for making bows that will finish off your wreath. I also bought a bow-making gizmo that is really fun to use and I’ll be glad to show you how to use it.
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • New opportunities coming soon!
    • Community science. Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
    • Find more opportunities on the Benton Volunteer Opportunities Page.
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • None this week – check back next time.

Linn MG eNews

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Have your friends or family always wanted to volunteer as community gardening educators? Invite them to apply to become Master Gardeners! The 2023 training combines online coursework with in-person plant problem scenarios and county-based garden labs – led by returning volunteers. Learn more and apply HERE by 12/31/2022.

  • Shout outs
    • 11/19 Master Gardener Celebration and Graduation. 2-4pm in Tangent. Small bites & treats potluck + awards. To RSVP CLICK HERE.
      • Got photos of fun MG events this year? To get them included in the slideshow, send them to Betty Goergen: goergenb (at) gmail.com
    • Thank you everyone for reporting service hours and re-enrolling!
      • Linn MGs and trainees completed 3820 service hours and 381 continuing education hours during the past year! They made 6,028 contacts. Congratulations!
    • If you want to participate in 2023 but still haven’t RSVP’d, please complete the DocuSign in your email. If you need paper forms or have questions please call Elizabeth: 541.730.3471
    • Trivia tournament with valuable prizes: November 17, 2022, 6-7pm, Bad Ash Bugs: Invasive and wood-boring insects of the PNW
  • Volunteer opportunities
    • New opportunities coming soon!
    • GARDEN EDUCATION CLASSES Help develop gardening classes at the Demo Garden for 2023. We have two beds set aside at the Demo Garden and two beds at Willamette Community Garden to use to teach gardening classes. Classes will start early 2023 and will be similar to Seed to Supper but with a hands on approach. Want to help design the classes email me, Betty at goergenb@gmail.com. Perfect way to earn Direct Education hours.
    • Community science. Contribute data to research on gardens, plants, and wildlife. Explore and sign up. Many projects are remote and on your own schedule. Report the time as “citizen science: indirect”. 
    • Find ongoing and anytime opportunities on the Linn Volunteer Opportunities Page
  • Community news (Please note that anything in this section is not eligible for MGV volunteer service nor endorsed by Extension, but is mentioned as a courtesy to our community.)
    • None this week.

You’re invited: keep growing with us

Posted on by | Leave a reply

Bookmark our page: Find newsletter archives, volunteer handbook and more volunteer opportunities at https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/

Share an item for eNews by contacting your program staff by the second or last Wednesday of each month. Please use this event checklist to ensure all needed information is included in your request.

Dear Master Gardeners,

I’m sharing this again in case you missed it earlier. You are invited to participate as a Master Gardener in 2022-2023!

  • Welcome back to all those who volunteered in 2021-2022!
  • Haven’t participated for a while? Not sure about next year? You can still re-enroll.
  • Are you a trainee on an extended service plan? Did you defer enrollment in 2022? Re-enroll now as your next step towards earning Master Gardener certification.

Whatever your role, you are essential and appreciated!

As always we are supporting our communities with garden education and more. I hope you’ll consider joining us. Here are the steps:

  • Log any service hours you completed, by 10/31/2022
  • Review the updated Volunteer Success Sourcebook, HERE.
  • Then check your email for directions and a DocuSign to re-enroll. Don’t see it? Check Spam or All Mail.
  • Please complete your re-enrollment before 11/1/2022.
  • County Master Gardener Associations, the non-profit collaborators of the OSU Extension Master Gardener Program, are currently accepting membership dues.

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about re-enrolling in the Master Gardener Programs of Linn and Benton Counties. Please reach out with any other questions: 541-730-3471.

Best wishes for volunteering and gardening —

PS – don’t forget to RSVP for the Celebration and Graduation on November 19 in Tangent. All are welcome. To RSVP CLICK HERE.

Elizabeth Records – Program staff