My name is Matthew Mankins, but please call me Matt. I am in week four at the Oregon State University Extension office in Polk County in Dallas. I am currently a horticulture student at Chemeketa Community College.  I have a bachelor’s degree in anthropology with a studio art minor from Southern Oregon University. I have previous work experience working for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Portland, and as a CNA doing in-home care. In short, I have a broad field of experience. I am working to get an associate degree in horticulture so that I can work towards employment as a greenhouse or nursery manager. Once employed I plan to take advantage of Chemeketa’s bachelor’s in management program to move up into a managerial position. 

I chose to study horticulture because I wanted work that was hands on, mentally stimulating, and that benefited my local community. Although this is my first experience at an Extension office, I’ve come to love the camaraderie I’ve experienced working with the different groups who are a part of the Extension team. I try to save a few hours each week to work with the Master Gardeners at the Inspiration Garden in Independence. Not only do I like the opportunity to get my hands dirty, but what I’m gleaning from the wealth of knowledge and experience of the Master Gardeners, is invaluable. The Master gardeners have a life of gardening experience and I am so glad that they are able to pass that on to future generations.   

In my horticultural studies I have taken a special interest in using organic methods to manage soils. I have always had an interest in biology and how we can work with biological systems rather than against them to grow plants in a sustainable way.  

This is why one of the projects I’m developing is a class for the Master Gardener program about soils, why it is important to test the soil, and how to use a soil analysis to amend them. In addition to explaining the benefits of doing so organically. 

My second project is to create a proposal for a Learning Garden in the lot behind the office. So far, I have drawn a map of the area and created a survey to incorporate the ideas of the groups who use the office into the proposal. These groups include: the Master Gardeners, 4H, SNAP-Ed program, and the office staff who all should have input on the plan. This project is perfect for a person who is new to the Extension system, because by interviewing these groups I am developing a strong understanding of the services that the Extension program provides to the community. 

This summer I’m excited to develop my public communication skills, as well as my ability as an instructor. Whether I continue to work as an educator or not. These skills will help me to be a better leader in the work environment and in the community.