Program updates: Oregon is experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 due to the more virulent Delta variant. Your safety and health, as well as that of those we serve, is of utmost importance. In addition to following the university’s updated face covering policy, we can take additional actions to help slow the transmission of COVID-19 in our communities while we continue to serve. Get the latest information.
Shout outs
Recertification question
Q: Are the direct and indirect public outreach hours still being waved for recertification?
A: Master Gardeners who were certified for the 2020 calendar year will maintain their certification in 2021. Service expectations will continue to be responsive to the public health situation that emerges in 2022. Please continue to report any volunteer hours completed. Every hour reported for this service year shows stakeholders that the Master Gardener program is worth supporting.
The Culture of Gardening: Today we’re publicly launching a storytelling initiative of the Master Gardener Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Taskforce. This initiative, called The Culture of Gardening, explores and shares the voices of gardeners growing plants to connect with their heritage, culture, and identity. Read the stories and share them.
Volunteers needed – Visit the Benton County Volunteer opportunities page to sign up.
In-person plant clinic is back with a new outdoor option! Now – even more shifts available.
Board meeting information is now found in the President’s mailings.
Extension updates.
Featured plant clinic question: Black spots on pinot noir grape vines. The fruit is developing normally – does the gardener need to manage the spots?
Featured publication:Managing Diseases and Insects in Home Orchards. As gardeners harvest insect-riddled or diseased fruit and wonder what went wrong, this guide can help them plan ahead for better crops in future.
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.)
Produce donations needed: Growing Ancestral Roots serves our community by working together to produce food in our backyards. They also grow at a local small farm focused on favorite veggies of international communities. To donate produce, please contact: sandie.cheung (at) gmail.com
