“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August.”

Jenny Han

Summer Highlights

The summer of 2025 has had OSU metro area Master Gardeners engaging in a bounty of valuable community outreach events and continuing education opportunities!

This season has provided time to connect with fellow volunteers at events like our Summer Soiree at the Hopkins Demonstration Forest. Many of you also participated in new ways to “talk all things plants” with Oregon gardeners, such as teaching Seed to Supper classes across the community.

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The G.R.O.W. Approach

When interacting with the public, it is important to put our best customer service skills forward. To reach this goal, we are pleased to share the “GROW Approach”.

Greet and listen attentively to the client to understand their concern. Ask clarifying question to gather key information. Then provide science-based information, guidance and resources from the MG CLINIC BINDER and/or OSU publications. If warranted, seek further assistance from metro area MG staff. Finally, be sure thank clients for visiting and encourage them to return or stay connected via our website and MG Helpline.

That welcoming approach is also important as you meet and volunteer alongside your fellow MGs. Remember, everyone brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. Together we can foster a positive environment while offering science-based, sustainable gardening guidance to all!

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The time is ripe, reporting your hours in VRS!

The time is ripe for Master Gardener™ volunteer reporting! Take  time now to log into our metro area Volunteer Reporting System (VRS) and report your volunteer and continuing education hours.  Login to VRS HERE.

All reporting must be submitted in VRS by Friday, October 31^st to earn 2026 MG certification status.

Please follow the link below for a refresher on the annual requirements to maintain your Master Gardener certification. It also includes information on all the designated volunteer and continuing education opportunities for 2025. Scroll down on this page for details on maintaining your OSU Master Gardener certification.

Note: hours submitted in VRS are verified by staff as time allows, so don’t despair if submitted hours are not verified for several weeks.

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Fall Recertification: Save the Dates!

Save the dates for our annual “Fall Recertification Webinars”, presented in November. We will be hosting 4 webinars highlighting information to support you in your role as an OSU Master Gardener educator. Each webinar will count towards continuing education hour requirements for the 2025/26 Master Gardener reporting year. 

Save the dates!

Wednesday, November 5, 6:30pm
                            “Understanding Pesticides“
                                        with Jennifer Gervais, National Pesticide Information Center

Thursday, November 6, 6:30pm
                           To be announced

Wednesday, November 19, 6:30pm
                             “Nectar and pollen plants of Oregon (reloaded)”
                                          with Andony Melathopoulos, OSU, Associate Professor

Thursday, November 20, 6:30pm
                            “Gardening Made Easier: Using Solve Pest Problems”
                                          with Thomas Jima, OSU, Integrated Pest Management Educator

An invitation to register for the “Fall Recertification Webinars”, of your choice will be sent out in October.

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Metro-area Master Gardeners Recognized for Their Service

Annually, each of the three metro area Master Gardener Association chapters nominate members for special recognition through the Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA). Enthusiastic congratulations to Carole Hardy and Dan McDonald for their invaluable service and contributions!

In addition, Associations designate members for their own chapter awards. Join us in celebrating and congratulating the following Master Gardeners for their dedicated service and contributions to serving the community:

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Oregon Master Gardener Association Awards

Carole Hardy – Growing and Belonging

Carole Hardy’s leadership and dedicated commitment to inclusive education is being recognized as the 2025 State “Growing and Belonging Award” recipient. Carole has developed inclusive, research-based educational programs that enhance the Master Gardener Program’s community outreach and service.

Partnering with Title I schools, Carole has created hands-on garden education sessions and delivered them to multiple classes at the Multnomah County Master Gardener Association’s (MCMGA) Demo Garden. She also initiated the MCMGA’s “Learn in the Garden” series, which offers practical gardening classes on topics ranging from pollinators to climate resiliency. Carole has established partnerships with area non-profit organizations like Feed the Mass, All Saints Episcopal Food Pantry and Wisdom of the Elders. To foster inclusivity among volunteers, she expanded Demo Garden hours to evenings and weekends, making participation more accessible and encouraging collaboration among volunteers of all experience levels.

Carole developed new curriculum for the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association’s “10-Minute University™ Let’s Grow Together” webinar series. She also co-designed a hands-on learning activity that is being used state-wide for the Master Gardener “Garden Future” initiative. Her efforts are planting seeds of knowledge that are growing strong community roots.

Dan McDonald – Behind the Scenes

Dan McDonald exemplifies the Master Gardener Program’s mission through his dedication, leadership, and commitment to community food access. His steady behind-the-scenes work has created meaningful change for both volunteers and the communities they serve.

As a driving force behind the Washington County Master Gardener Association’s (WCMGA) “Grow 1 Give 1“(G1G1) project, Dan connects food pantry clients with resources to grow their own food. Under his leadership, the project has flourished, reaching 200 community members and providing garden education to 915 participants across seven food pantries. Volunteers distributed an amazing 1,100+ vegetable starts! Dan coordinated more than two dozen volunteer growers and developed training classes. He also leads the WCMGA Learning Garden’s vegetable team, building confidence and expanding access to fresh food and gardening knowledge throughout the community. Additionally, he has served on the WCMGA board, teaches classes, and plays a key role in Gardenfest, the chapter’s annual fundraising event.

Dan exemplifies the mission of the Master Gardener Program through his dedication, leadership, and commitment to community food access. His steady behind-the-scenes work has created meaningful change for both volunteers and the communities they serve.

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County Association Awards

Clackamas County Master Gardener Association

John and Amelia Wilbur – Clackamas County Master Gardeners of the Year!

For nearly two decades, John and Amelia Wilbur have led the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association (CCMGA) with their commitment to education and service.

During the pandemic, they provided steady leadership, serving consecutively as CCMGA Presidents. John guided the chapter through the crisis with calm adaptability, helping to shift programming online and maintain meaningful engagement through projects like Grow an Extra Row and 10-Minute University. When Amelia assumed the presidency, she prioritized inclusivity, revitalizing community education events like “Garden Discovery Day” and “Fall into Gardening” while supporting hybrid access.

For more than 15 years, the Wilburs have built CCMGA’s pH soil testing service, providing free testing and educational materials at community events. Amelia, affectionately known as the “Tomato Lady,” has contributed countless educational hours through the 10-Minute University team’s science-based gardening webinars. Each year, she and John grow over 60 tomato plants, harvesting and donating hundreds of pounds of fresh tomatoes to local food banks.

As thoughtful mentors and community stewards, John and Amelia have inspired a generation of volunteers, cultivated partnerships, and strengthened CCMGA’s mission at every turn. Their dedication has left an indelible mark on the organization—and the greater Clackamas community.

Kirk Pearson – Behind the Scenes Master Gardener

With a sharp eye for what’s needed and a willingness to act, Kirk Pearson supports the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association’s efforts out of genuine commitment to the mission.  

Kirk has been a dedicated volunteer with the Spring Garden Fair committee, helping to ensure its success. His calm presence, thoughtful observations, and consistent follow-through make him a steady and valued member of any team.

Most notably, Kirk has stepped up to lead the Grow an Extra Row (GAER) Giving and Learning Garden. Under his guidance, the garden has continued to thrive—providing hands-on learning opportunities for MGs and community volunteers while producing thousands of pounds of fresh food for neighbors experiencing food insecurity. His leadership style is inclusive and kind, creating a garden culture that welcomes everyone and fosters confidence and collaboration.

Kirk’s work is often done quietly and without fanfare—but its impact is unmistakable. He models what it means to serve with humility, consistency, and care. Kirk embodies the spirit of the “Behind the Scenes” award, and his efforts have helped grow both the garden and the greater Master Gardener community.

Nancy Muir – Growing and Belonging Award

Nancy Muir has dedicated more than a decade of service as a Master Gardener, ensuring that sound garden education and healthy food are available to those experiencing food insecurity. She leads with compassion, community spirit, and a deep commitment to equity.

For 11 years, Nancy led the Grow an Extra Row Learning and Giving Garden. Under her guidance, the garden became a powerful community hub, annually producing over 5,000 pounds of fresh vegetables for local food pantries. She expanded garden space, welcomed every volunteer with her signature “come when you can, stay as long as you want” invitation, and mentored dozens with science-based gardening methods and genuine warmth.

Nancy also has volunteered for the Seed to Supper program, teaching under-served communities to build the skills and confidence to grow their own food. As OSU Extension relaunched the Seed to Supper Program, Nancy has committed to mentoring fellow Master Gardeners and reconnecting with past community partners. Whether leading harvests, delivering curriculum, or simply listening to someone’s story, she meets people where they are—and helps them grow. Her legacy is one of nourishment, belonging, and empowerment.

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Multnomah County Master Gardener Association

Cynthia Chase – Master Gardener of the Year

Since becoming a Master Gardener in 2016, Cynthia Chase has been a driving force in the Multnomah County Master Gardener Association community. She has served in multiple leadership roles, including Chapter Secretary (2019–2020), Vice President (2022–2023), and currently, as President—a role she is continuing in 2025.

Cynthia is a thoughtful, collaborative leader who inspires others with her kindness, dedication, and “can-do” attitude. She works to ensure that all volunteers, whether brand new or long-standing, feel welcome, included, and valued.

She has supported key fundraising efforts such as launching an online merchandise store that features the new MCMGA logo. Cynthia helped lead successful volunteer advocacy efforts to restore public funding for OSU Extension and the Master Gardener Program in Multnomah County. She remains committed to this work and has continued to guide advocacy efforts throughout this year. As a partner to OSU Extension, Cynthia brings vision, steadiness, and innovation to the Program. Whether supporting the Demonstration Garden or MCMGA Board initiatives, she encourages collaboration and always leads with a smile. Cynthia’s contributions reflect the very best of what it means to be a Master Gardener: generous, dedicated, and deeply community-minded.

Bob Dueltgen – Behind the Scenes

For more than 25 years, Bob Dueltgen has quietly and consistently embodied the spirit of service that defines the Master Gardener Program. From pruning cane berries in the Demonstration Garden to reviewing Chapter by-laws, Bob is always there offering his expertise and time, without seeking recognition.

Bob is a go-to volunteer for outreach events across the region. Whether staffing the OSU Extension booth at the Oregon State Fair, tabling at a local Fix-It Fairs, or stepping in at the last minute for a farmers market shift, Bob shows up! He often delivers and picks up MG clinic supplies and has saved the day more times than we can count.

Bob is also a beloved educator who generously shares his deep knowledge of cane berries with both new and experienced Master Gardeners. His hands-on trainings are favorites in the metro program, and he’s always ready to lend a hand or fill in when needed.

He exemplifies the mission of the Master Gardener Program through quiet leadership, humble generosity, and a steadfast commitment to community education. This award recognizes and extends the utmost gratitude to Bob for his many years of behind-the-scenes dedication and heart!

Mike Rutherford – Behind the Scenes

Mike brings boundless energy, positivity, and a generous spirit to everything he does as a Master Gardener volunteer. Over the past year, he has become a truly indispensable member of the team, stepping up time and again to support others and move projects forward—always with a smile.

Whether serving as the go-to tech support, capturing moments as the Demonstration Garden event photographer, or jumping in to understand the needs of new Seed to Supper participants, Mike approaches every task with thoughtfulness and heart. He is known for readily saying “yes”, being eager to help, offering ideas, or lending a hand wherever needed.

Mike’s enthusiasm for gardening is contagious, and his willingness to engage deeply with the Program shines through in meetings, community outreach, and volunteer gatherings. He’s the kind of teammate everyone wants dedicated, kind, and always ready to help.

The Behind-the-Scenes award is a fitting way to honor Mike for all the ways, big and small, he makes our program stronger, more welcoming, and more joyful.

Christine Semeniuk – Behind the Scenes

Christine Semeniuk has quietly and steadily made a lasting impact on the Master Gardener Program in Multnomah County. For over a decade, she has been a dedicated and reliable presence—volunteering at farmers markets, supporting community education through Seed to Supper, and contributing her time and talents to countless behind-the-scenes efforts.

Christine’s sharp eye for detail, clear focus, and warm, can-do attitude have made her an exceptional Treasurer and Bookkeeper for the Multnomah County Master Gardener Association. She has also played key roles in fundraising and planning, always showing up with grace, care, and a friendly smile.

Her years of service reflect a deep commitment to the mission and heart of the Master Gardener Program. Christine exemplifies what it means to lead with consistency, kindness, and quiet dedication. This well-deserved award expresses deep gratitude to Christine for her dedicated service and significant contributions to the MCMGA and the metro area Master Gardener Program.

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Washington County Master Gardener Association

Robin Burnham – Master Gardener of the Year

Robin Burnham is a dedicated leader and educator whose work exemplifies the heart of the Master Gardener Program.

Robin has been instrumental in launching and leading the HomePlate project, where she organizes hands-on gardening sessions for housing-insecure youth. Through multiple sessions each year, youth learn to grow vegetables, fruits, and berries in raised beds and edible landscaping at a drop-in center. Robin coordinates volunteers, secures supplies, provides Food Hero recipes, and even encourages youth to take container plants and harvests home—seeding future food security and possibility.

As co-lead of the WCMGA Learning Garden at Jenkins Estate, Robin supports a team of volunteers, fostering teamwork and mentorship. She keeps the team energized with thoughtful communication and recognition. Robin also helps plan the popular “In the Garden” class series and intern workshops.

Robin is also a longtime member of the Gardenfest steering committee and a consistent voice for inclusive, engaging education. Her thoughtful leadership, generosity, and dedication make her an inspiration to all!

Karen Anderson – Behind the Scenes

Karen Anderson has been a certified OSU Extension Master Gardener volunteer since 2020 and is a deeply valued member of the Washington County Master Gardener Association (WCMGA) team. Her leadership and dedication have been essential to both the WCMGA and the OSU metro area Master Gardener Program.

Karen leads the Propagation Team with excellence, contributing greatly to the success of the annual Gardenfest Plant Sale and supporting educational goals across the program. When a special need arises, Karen is quick to lend a hand. A recent example includes her coordination of extra plant donations from Gardenfest to support the 2025 Washington County Seed to Supper course. In her time as a Master Gardener, Karen has contributed nearly 500 volunteer hours—more than 200 in 2024 alone! She has also donated over 184 pounds of fresh produce. Beyond the numbers, Karen brings kindness, follow-through, and a passion for teaching that uplifts all volunteers.

Karen’s Behind-the-Scene’s recognition demonstrates sincere gratitude for her steadfast leadership and service that ensures our gardening community continues to grow!
 

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Community Education Training

Are you passionate about gardening and intrigued about educating others as a presenter but don’t know where to start? This fall, we will be offering a “Community Education Training” workshop for Perennial Master Gardeners. This training will focus on a variety of education delivery methods – from a traditional slide show to in-the-garden opportunities, using hands-on methods to teach gardening concepts. If you are interested in participating, please fill out this form and you will be notified when registration starts.

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Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up Webinars

The 2025 Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up webinar series wraps up on Tuesday, September 9th, 12noon, with the presentation: “Better Watch Your Backyard: Tracking Oregon’s Seasons”, presented by Sarah Cameron, OSU Extension’s Forestry and Natural Resources, Clackamas.

Changes in things like bloom timing, the amount/type of precipitation your area receives, or other seasonal phenomena are exactly the kinds of thing the folks behind Oregon Season Tracker are trying to understand. This ongoing community science project teams up volunteers, natural resource managers, educators, and researchers to further the understanding of weather and climate and their effects on our local environment. Learn all the details and register for the webinar link HERE.

BONUS! You can watch videos of all past 2025 webinars HERE.

*All 2025 Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up webinars count as 1-hour Continuing Education credit.

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It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart.

Rainer Maria Rilke

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Hearty Gratitude! MGs Planting the Seeds of Knowledge

It’s National Volunteer Appreciation Month! This month, and every month, we’re grateful for the generous spirit of our OSU metro area Extension Master Gardener volunteers! You show up—in gardens, in classrooms, in conversations—with curiosity and care. Thank you for planting the seeds of knowledge and community throughout Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties!

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Springing Up! Community Outreach Opportunities

Spring has sprung and so have the various Master Gardener volunteer opportunities. We are talking Farmers Markets, Earth Day Celebrations, Fairs, and more!  New opportunities are being posted weekly so be sure to check CERVIS frequently to sign up for these fun, engaging volunteer opportunities.

Remember to update your CERVIS Profile, especially if your address, phone number, emergency contact, or email address has changed.  You can make those changes in CERVIS.  Also be sure to notify Program staff (Amy, Kim, or Marcia) so we know of the change and can make any other necessary updates to our records.

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Annual Master Gardener Certification Requirements

It is not too early to start keeping track of your Volunteer Service and Continuing Education hours for 2026 recertification. Follow the button below for a refresher on the annual requirements to maintain your Master Gardener certification. There you will also find a link to the online Volunteer Reporting System (VRS) where you can log your hours as you serve them.

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Welcoming our 2025 Master Gardener Training Cohort

We are excited to be welcoming our new Master Gardener Training Cohort. Since the end of January over 140 enthusiastic trainees have been diving deep into the OSU Master Gardener training curriculum.

Now they are moving into their role as “Interns” and are venturing out to serve the community alongside experienced Master Gardeners.

Master Gardeners, be sure to join us in extending a warm welcome to the Interns, as you begin meeting and volunteering with this remarkable group of passionate garden educators.

Volunteer Opportunity Fair – Kudos to our supporting Master Gardener Associations, and the Master Gardener Study Group for helping to build a vibrant Volunteer Opportunity Fair for the 2025 Master Gardener Training Cohort. Thank you for guiding and sharing your enthusiasm for the wide array of service opportunities available to our Interns.

Hands-on Workshops – Many thanks to our supporting Master Gardener associations and volunteers who have developed and are leading the instruction of hands-on workshops to the trainees. You have created a fantastic line-up of educational offerings to support trainees in their journey to serve the community as garden educators!

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Garden Future Initiative Launches

The future of gardening can be confusing right now. With changing seasonal weather, new techniques, different plants, you might be asking yourself, what should I be doing now? What should I be doing into the future?Garden Future is about growing resilience in a changing climate.

Garden Future is an exciting new OSU Extension-led initiative that empowers Master Gardener volunteers to engage the public in conversations and actions for gardening in a changing climate. This spring, across Oregon (including right here in the metro area) the Garden Future initiative is being launched.

We will be displaying Garden Future resources at selected community events. Resources and fun activities will be provided for Master Gardeners to start conversations and support fellow Oregon gardeners in resilient gardening practices.

Are you ready to be part of the future of gardening?

• Start conversations at tabling events and community gatherings
• Share your story—how has your gardening changed?
• Help document and uplift other gardeners’ experiences
• Stay connected through the Garden Future Champions newsletter

Learn more about this statewide initiative HERE. You will find resources for garden resiliency and learn how you can become a Garden Future champion!

Interested in helping with the Garden Future initiative in the metro area?
If you are interested in being involved with the Garden Future initiative let us know by filling out the interest form linked below and look for specific Garden Future events on CERVIS.

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Level Up Your Gardening Knowledge

Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener Program’s popular free webinar series for the experienced gardener is back with a fresh new suite of learning opportunities!

This year’s Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up series is about growing resilience in a changing climate. We’re digging deep into the science behind invasive pests, best techniques in using less water, understanding what changes our trees are enduring, and harnessing the power of technology to identify and learn more about plants and insects. In partnership with Garden Future, we’re talking and learning about growing resilience in our gardens and communities. The closed-captioned webinars will be broadcast via Zoom and streamed via our Facebook page the second Tuesday of the month, at noon, April through September 2025. This series is open to the public, and OSU Extension Master Gardener volunteers receive 1 Continuing Education Credit for each class. You can take one, or take all. This webinar is being recorded and will be available to view on our website within two weeks of airdate.

View the entire series and register: HERE

Watch online: This webinar series will be available on Zoom and broadcast live on our Facebook page. Recordings will be available on our website within two weeks of live broadcast.

Cost: Free

Who can attend: Open to the public, OSU metro area Perennial Master Gardener volunteers receive 1 hour of Continuing Education Credit for each class.

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Seed to Supper

“Seed to Supper” is a beginning garden course focused on reducing food insecurity in Oregon. The program was created by the Oregon Food Bank and Oregon State Extension Service. Originally the program was administered by the Oregon Food Bank and OSU Master Gardeners served as garden educators. Today, the program is entirely run and administered as an OSU Extension project.  

We are excited to launch “Seed to Supper” in the metro area this spring, while maintaining a focus of delivering the program to those who are low income and most likely to experience food insecurity.

If you are interested in learning more and helping to teach the “Seed to Supper” Program, please fill out the interest survey which is linked to the button below.

*Volunteering for “Seed to Supper ” counts as a “Program” volunteer hours. If interested, please respond promptly as “Seed to Supper” sessions are starting!

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Claudia Groth: Diamond Pioneer Awardee

We are delighted to share the news that fellow OSU metro area Master Gardener, Claudia Groth, was recently presented with the OSU College of Agricultural Science’s Diamond Pioneer Award.

The Diamond Pioneer Award “honors people with significant lifetime contributions to agriculture, natural resources, and the people of Oregon and/or Oregon State University. This award provides the opportunity to publicly recognize the accomplishments of individuals who have contributed to the well-being of their community, industry, and state.”

Claudia’s true passion and dedication lies in educating Oregon gardeners. A long-time and highly active OSU Master Gardener volunteer (since 1989), Claudia has dedicated thousands of hours teaching thousands in Master Gardener training courses across the state, presenting at numerous conferences, and providing ongoing support to county programs.

Her expertise, honed by hundreds of hours of coursework in pest and plant problem management, has made her a sought-after presenter. She is known for her ability to simplify complex concepts and engage audiences. Claudia presents on topics ranging from soil health and composting to beneficial insects and plant diagnostics, and she has a particularly popular presentation on slugs. She has even been featured on Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Oregon Field Guide, talking kindly about slugs!

Beyond her volunteer work, Groth has served as the “Garden Doctor” on Portland’s KEX radio, appeared on KATU’s AM Northwest and an XRAY FM garden show.

Her leadership within the OSU Master Gardener program is also noteworthy, including three terms as President of the Multnomah County Master Gardener Association and statewide leadership roles, focusing on financial support for the Master Gardener program. This dedication earned her the “2013 OSU Master Gardener of the Year” award.

The metro area Master Gardener Program and its participants are the lucky recipients of Claudia’s dedication and generosity teaching research-based gardening concepts and principles. We are endlessly grateful for her dedicated support and contributions.

Please join us in congratulating Claudia on this well-deserved recognition and honor!

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Joy of Gardening Conference – Registration Open!

Registration is now open for the Oregon Master Gardener Association’s “Joy of Gardening”, a two day conference packed with research-based classes, tours, & panels on all things gardening! Information for both new and experienced gardeners! The conference is open to Master Gardeners and the public.

Early bird registration available through June 15.

And don’t think the garden loses its ecstasy in winter. It’s quiet, but the roots are down there riotous.

-Rumi

A New Year and a Year in Review

As this year starts off, we take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable contributions of each OSU metro area Master Gardener volunteer. In 2024, you served nearly 30,000 volunteer hours, answered over 28,000 gardening questions, and reached 59,198 Oregonians in Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties!

Master Gardeners could be found throughout the community talking all things plants and sustainable gardening while tabling at farmers markets, community events, teaching classes and making presentations to a variety of community groups. Your dedication and passion shone brightly as you supported the community with solid gardening guidance and inspiration!

Kudos to each of you for your generous service!

Shout out of thanks!

Utmost thanks to the Perennial Master Gardeners who in 2024 developed and delivered twenty hands-on workshops, covering a wide array of gardening topics, across the metro area! These valuable learning opportunities allowed the Interns to reinforce and support their learning.

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Welcome Kim!

We are excited to welcome Kim Butchereit, as the newest member of our OSU metro area Master Gardener team. Kim is serving as an Education Program Assistant based in Multnomah County. Kim comes to the Master Gardener Program with a professional background in the financial industry and a rich history of serving her community as a volunteer.

Kim is passionate about gardening, especially roses. Along with being an avid gardener, Kim enjoys being in nature, on both the beautiful Oregon coast and in the evergreen covered mountains, hiking in forests, traveling, and cooking. 

Kim brings great enthusiasm and commitment to our metro area Master Gardener Program. Please join us in warmly welcoming Kim!

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Associations Welcome Master Gardener Leadership

Last summer, metro area Master Gardener Associations welcomed statewide and local leadership to tour their gardens, meet members, and learn about their community outreach projects. Leslie Madsen, the new statewide OSU Master Gardener Program leader, and Srijana Shrestha, our metro area leader, along with the metro area program team, enjoyed meeting numerous Master Gardeners and learning about the various outreach projects associations are delivering to the community.

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Congrats 2024 Master Gardeners!

We extend our hearty congratulations and warm welcome to our 2024 Master Gardeners! Over 9 months, our 2024 Interns dug into horticulture curriculum, successfully completed quizzes and a final exam, attended hands-on workshops to solidify their learning and enthusiastically joined in community service throughout the metro area. We are delighted to have the 2024 Master Gardener cohort joining our garden educator community!

You can see two familiar faces in the 2024 Master Gardener cohort. Metro area Master Gardener team members Amy Espinoza and Kim Butchereit, both successfully fulfilled the training requirements to join the ranks as Perennial Master Gardeners!

Congrats to one and all!

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Metro-area Master Gardeners Recognized for Their Service

“Ask Extension” Volunteer of the Year

In December, at OSU Extension Service’s annual employee conference, metro area Master Gardener, Kris LaMar was honored with the “Ask Extension” (online Extension Q&A forum) Volunteer of the Year award in recognition of her service answering “Ask Extension” gardening questions. 

Kris’s passion for research and education truly benefits the hundreds of gardeners whose questions are answered annually by Kris via “Ask Extension”. Yes, you read it right, “hundreds”! Kris answered a remarkable 655 questions in 2024 which brings her lifetime total to 20,435 questions answered! 

Congratulations Kris and thank you for your dedication and generous service educating Oregon gardeners!

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Oregon Master Gardener Association Awards

Each year, the three-metro area Master Gardener Associations nominate and designate members for special recognition through the Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA). Enthusiastic congratulations to each 2024 awardee for their invaluable service and contributions.

Larina Hoffbeck – Statewide Master Gardener of the Year

Larina Hoffbeck’s dedication to a Master Gardener program that is more accessible and inclusive for both volunteers and the public is just one aspect of her remarkable service that has brought her recognition as a co-recipient of the 2024 OSU Master Gardener of the Year award. She strives to reach groups that don’t typically interact with Master Gardeners, as seen in her work with the bilingual program, “Grow1Give1” event, outreach with HomePlate Youth Services, and as a founding member and chair of the Washington County Master Gardener Association’s “Growing and Belonging” committee. Larina has helped craft accessibility and inclusivity assessments for the WCMGA, and has extended her service as a participant in the statewide “Growing and Belonging” committee. In addition, Larina created youth education kits, such as “Invertebrates/Vertebrates” and “Calling All Pollinators!” which are used by Master Gardeners throughout the metro area.

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County Association Awards

The following are the 2024 Award winners from each of the three metro area Master Gardener Associations.

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Clackamas County Master Gardener Association

Master Gardener of the Year: Laura Oldenkamp

Laura Oldenkamp’s multifaceted volunteer efforts are spread over many CCMGA projects and activities. Laura has supported the CCMGA as an Executive Board member, served as a dedicated volunteer at the Oregon Trail Pioneer Garden and the Hopkins Demonstration Garden, along with supporting the association’s Spring Garden Fair. Laura also generously offers educational support and expertise on how to successfully grow dahlias to Master Gardeners and the public.

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Behind the Scenes: Leah Puhlman

With a passion for native plants, pollinators, Leah has focused the core of her volunteer service on educating gardeners. Leah has volunteered on the Master Gardener Helpline, at the Oregon Zoo Education Center, and has taught metro area MG training workshops. In addition she has made gardening presentations through the MG Speakers Guild. She has been instrumental helping to extend the educational outreach of the CCMGA’s 10-Minute University by developing and teaching four 10-Minute University webinars and managing the 10-Minute University’s social media presence.

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Multnomah County Master Gardener Association

Master Gardener of the Year: Rich Becker

For the second time, Rich is being recognized for his generous service as the MCMGA Master Gardener of the Year. Rich has led the MCMGA’s successful fundraiser, the Incredible Edibles Plant Sale for several years. He enjoys sharing his knowledge at Farmers Markets and with visitors and fellow MGs at the MCMGA Demonstration Garden. Rich has played an integral part of the leadership at the Demo Garden, including serving as project manager building the garden’s beautiful pergola.  His incredible generosity has extended to seeding an endowment with the OSU Foundation to provide funding for the MCMGA Chapter.

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Master Gardener of the Year: Lorna Schilling

Lorna has been serving as a Master Gardener since 2000. For many years she served as editor of the Grapevine newsletter that kept the fellow Master Gardeners and the public up to date on Master Gardener activities, education and outreach opportunities. During the challenges of the pandemic Lorna answered the call to lead the MCMGA for two years as chapter President, focusing on keeping members and the public connected to gardening education.

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Behind the Scenes: Carole Hardy, Heidi Nichols, and Beven Peters

Carole Hardy’s passion for educating others on sustainable and restorative gardening drives her service to the community, volunteering at community events and at the MCMGA Demonstration Garden. For three years Carole has led the design, planting and maintenance of multiple beds in the Demo Garden sharing her knowledge of forest ecology and native plants. She is the program coordinator and one of the key content creators for the 2023-24 “Learn at the DG” webinars and in-the-garden learning sessions. Since June of 2022 Carole has been the MCMGA eNews writer and Editor. In addition, she has served as the OMGA Alternative Representative for the Chapter.

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An OSU Master Gardener for over 23 years, Heidi Nichols has worn many hats supporting the OSU MG Program and the MCMGA, including phone clinic coordinator, MCMGA President, Membership Chair, Cashier Lead for the chapter’s fundraising plant sale and since 2008 Co-chair of the Demonstration Garden. Heidi spends hundreds of hours “behind the scenes” and on the ground for the Demo Garden managing task lists, garden schedules (including harvests) and record keeping, along with attending to the varied needs that sprout up in the garden weekly.

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Beven Peters has been recognized twice as the MCMGA Master Gardener of the Year, highlighting her leadership with the Chapter’s fund-raising efforts, including the Incredible Edibles Plant Sale and as merchandise chair. She was also recognized for her dedication serving, for several years, as a coordinator for Master Gardener training. Most recently, she has focused her efforts “behind the scenes” where she fine-tuned and executed the plant sale order, site layout, and a signage system, all vital elements of many successful and prosperous events!

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Washington County Master Gardener Association

Behind the Scenes: Terry Wagner

Terry Wagner has focused on honoring and celebrating the service of WCMGA members, including overseeing awards and recognition. In response to the pandemic, with the goal for WCMGA members to meet and engage with each other, Terry organized two social events, which are now yearly celebratory WCMGA gatherings. Terry has volunteered for a variety of public outreach events. She has developed and delivered worm bin composting classes and supported classes which were part of the “In the Garden Series”. In addition, she contributed to the redesign of the WCMGA website and helped establish a Little Free Library at the Jenkins Learning Garden.

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The flowers of late winter and early spring occupy places in our hearts well out of proportion to their size.

Gertrude S. Wister

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Welcome Srijana!
Our metro area OSU Master Gardener™ Program leader

We are so very pleased to share the news that Srijana Shrestha, Assistant Professor of Practice, has started her position leading our OSU Extension Service metro area Master Gardener Program. Srijana’s position serves the whole metro region, which includes Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties.

Learn more about Srijana, her horticulture passions and her excitement about leading the Master Gardener Program.

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Welcome to, and from, our new Statewide Master Gardener Manager, Dr. Leslie Madsen

After a national search, Dr. Leslie Madsen (she/her) has joined OSU Extension as the Statewide Master Gardener Manager, beginning December 29^th, 2023. She most recently was the Associate Director for Educational Development in the Center for Teaching and Learning at Boise State University. The OSU Extension metro area Master Gardener Program extends a hearty welcome to Dr. Madsen!

Learn more about Dr. Madsen and read her note to all Oregon Master Gardeners HERE.

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Master Gardeners Impact Community

As we begin a new year, we look back with gratitude on the tremendous impact and contributions that metro area OSU Master Gardeners had in the community in 2023. Master Gardeners reached over 59,000 community members and answered over 12,000 gardening questions!

You served at resource fairs, farmers markets, libraries, schools, gardens, and a wide variety of community outreach events. Learn all the details in our OSU Extension metro area Master Gardener “2023 Impact Report”, click the download button below. Kudos to all, for your dedicated service educating Oregonians about successful and sustainable gardening practices!

Be sure to check out the 2023 Summer and Fall Recap highlighting how Master Gardeners gathered, learned and served. In addition, we congratulate the 2023 Master Gardener award winners.

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Thank you and best wishes Lisa!

We extend our best wishes and sincere thanks to Lisa Kirby, Education Program Assistant, who is setting her sights on new endeavors and has moved on from OSU. Over the past year, Lisa has enthusiastically supported the OSU Extension metro area Master Gardener Program and volunteers. Lisa has been integral in event planning, delivering curriculum, and supporting community educational outreach. We are grateful for her dedicated service.

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Community Outreach Events Commence

As we see signs of spring emerging in the garden, our Master Gardener community outreach events also start to bloom this time of year. Be sure to check CERVIS, periodically, so you can sign up for some fun, engaging opportunities as they are continually posted.

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2024 Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up Series

One in five people face hunger in Oregon. The cost of food keeps climbing and the pandemic showed us the fragility of our supply system. Growing our own food – for ourselves, for our families, for our neighbors – is an action gardeners can take to strengthen food security in their local communities. This year’s “Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up series” is aimed at helping gardeners take a bite out of hunger.

Nine, free, closed-captioned webinars will be broadcast via Zoom and streamed on our Facebook page. You can view them on the second Tuesday of the month, at noon, from February through October 2024. Experts in their field from OSU and beyond, will present on topics such as how to get the most yield from cool season veggies, growing produce to donate to food banks, and how to grow culinary mushrooms.

The series is open to all, and each webinar will be recorded. “Growing Oregon Gardeners” webinars count for one hour of designated Master Gardener continuing education.

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2024 OSU Master Gardener Training

We are eagerly looking forward to and busily preparing for our 2024 OSU Extension metro area Master Gardener Training. The training will launch this spring in all three counties. If you know anyone who loves learning about gardening and has a desire to share their knowledge with the community as a garden educator, please direct them to our home page. Those who sign up on our interest list will be notified when we start accepting applications.

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Annual Master Gardener Requirements

It is not too early to start keeping track of your Volunteer Service and Continuing Education hours for 2025 recertification. Please follow the link below for a refresher on the annual requirements to maintain your Master Gardener certification.

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A Look Back

During the summer and fall of 2023, our metro area Master Gardener Program was in high gear! Master Gardeners reconnected with fellow volunteers and served their communities in many different ways. Below, we take a look back at some of the activities, continuing education opportunities, and community outreach events that Master Gardeners participated in.

June 4th: Celebrate!

On June 4th, 2024, metro area Master Gardeners enjoyed a lovely sunny afternoon as they gathered to celebrate and cultivate community at Millennium Park Plaza in Lake Oswego. The event provided an opportunity to re-connect with fellow volunteers and also to make new connections. Informational and educational displays, door prizes, food, drink, and a lovely cupcake tree made the celebration festive.

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Community Outreach

Metro area Master Gardeners ventured far and wide across communities in the metro area to share solid gardening information with Oregon Gardeners. Master Gardeners could be found at area farmers markets, community resource fairs, making gardening presentations, hosting classes, and teaching in the garden.

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Metro-area Master Gardeners Recognized for Their Service

Each year, the three metro area Master Gardener Association chapters nominate and designate members for special recognition through the Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA). This year, one group project and two metro area Master Gardeners received special statewide recognition for their exemplary service.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the following Master Gardeners and enthusiastically congratulate them for their valuable contributions! 

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Statewide Awards

Clackamas County Master Gardener Association’s 10-Minute University™ team’s “Let’s Grow Together’

The Clackamas County Master Gardener Association’s “10-Minute University™ Let’s Grow Together!” webinar series, has been awarded the statewide “Search for Excellence” award. The webinar series, developed and launched in 2020, delivers sound and sustainable gardening information on essential gardening topics, from fruit tree pruning to garden wilding. The team is being recognized for their high-quality programming and its positive impact on gardeners in Oregon and beyond. Recordings of the webinar series can be viewed HERE.

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Marilyn Berti – Statewide Master Gardener of the Year

Marilyn Berti, co-recipient of the statewide “OSU Master Gardener of the Year” award, is being honored for her strong commitment to the educational outreach mission of the Program. A Master Gardener volunteer since 2009, Marilyn was instrumental in the development of the Washington County Master Gardener Association’s Learning Garden at Jenkins Estate. She has also worked on a wide variety of educational outreach programing and informational signage at the garden. Marilyn is always keenly focused on sharing sustainable gardening information with the community, whether developing educational programing, giving tours at the garden, or tabling at community events.

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Dennis Brown – Statewide Growing and Belonging Award

Master Gardener volunteer, Dennis Brown, is the inaugural recipient of the statewide, “Growing and Belonging” award. The award honors a Master Gardener volunteer who works collaboratively with community to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and/or social justice in the Master Gardener Program and in the wider community.  An OSU Master Gardener since 2017, Dennis has initiated innovative partnerships with community organizations such as developing garden curriculum for under-served communities. Most recently, Dennis has been working with individuals experiencing houselessness at the Bybee Lake Hope Center. He teaches “Gardening for Life” classes on sustainable gardening to Hope Center participants and other community members. In addition, Dennis makes dozens of gardening presentations annually to community groups, libraries, and at events including the City of Portland’s  “Fix-it Fair”. You can learn more about Dennis’ service in this OSU Extension Service article. You can also hear Dennis talk about cultivating community in his February 2024 presentation for the Washington County Master Gardener Speaker Series. Follow this link. Once there use this passcode: T+128y^J

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County Association Awards

The following are the 2023 nominees from each of the three metro area Master Gardener associations:

Clackamas County Master Gardener Association

Kathy Krentz – Master Gardener of the Year

Before she even finished her Master Gardener training in 2019, Kathy Krentz was generously volunteering to support the Master Gardener program. The Clackamas County Master Gardener Association (CCMGA) recognizes her tremendous contributions by naming her their 2023 Master Gardener of the Year. Kathy volunteers over 400 hours, annually, at the “Grow an Extra Row” garden, which grows food to donate to area food pantries. She has served as the CCMGA Board treasurer for 4 years. Her dedication extends to the “Spring Garden Fair”, where she has volunteered over 600 hours serving as the Vendor Sales Chair.

Cheryl Borden – Behind the Scenes Master Gardener

For the past 15 years, Cheryl Borden has been working quietly behind the scenes educating Oregon gardeners from youth to adults. She is part of the 10-Minute University team and was responsible for developing and delivering three new 10-Minute U. webinars. She offers generous support to the Master Gardener Program teaching hands-on workshops and has served many years answering questions on the Helpline. In her commitment to educate youth, she has developed curriculum for Master Gardener outreach education kits and often volunteers for community events serving young gardeners.

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Multnomah County Master Gardener Association

Marilyn Frankel – Master Gardener of the Year

The Multnomah County Master Gardener Association’s 2023 Master Gardener of the Year, Marilyn Frankel has dedicated hundreds of hours of her time volunteering, annually, at the MGMGA’s Demonstration Garden. Marilyn serves at the garden in every capacity, from designing to constructing, to digging and installation.

In addition, Marilyn has actively served as an OMGA representative. She has also been a generous supporter of the Master Gardener Program through assisting with training.

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Mary Abplanalp – Behind the Scenes Master Gardener

Mary Abplanalp was recognized as the Multnomah County Master Gardener Association’s (MCMGA) “Behind the Scenes” Master Gardener as she quietly made big contributions in support of the Association. Mary served as Editor for MCMGA’s eNews in 2021-2022, delivering engaging messages to their membership. She also dedicated time to the design and development of the “Naturescape” bed at the Association’s “Demonstration Garden”. Along with her daughter, Mary developed a detailed new map of the “Demonstration Garden” to guide volunteers and visitors alike.

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Washington County Master Gardener Association

Leslie Ray – Behind the Scenes

For nearly 10 years, Leslie Ray may have been tirelessly volunteering behind the scenes, but her service has had a direct impact on the community. She is a dedicated Helpline volunteer, spending time answering gardener’s questions. She initiated a Washington County Master Gardener translation project which makes resources available in Spanish. She was an integral part of the WCMGA’s “Grow 1 – Give 1” project where Master Gardeners grow veggie starts to distribute to food pantries. In addition, she has served on the statewide level as the WCMGA Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA) representative.

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Empowering Master Gardener Educators

To bolster volunteers in their role as garden educators, two skill-building
workshops were held in September and October. Speakers Guild and Educational
Outreach workshops were offered as opportunities for volunteers to train in how to give presentations and  how deliver engaging gardening curricula in youth educational settings.

Both events were fun, engaging and power our service educating gardeners.

Special thanks to Kelly Welch and Wendy Wilson for developing the curriculum for the Education Outreach training. They generously shared their professional insight, leading the training and guiding participants.

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The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also.

Harriet Ann Jacobs

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The arrival of spring has metro area Master Gardeners eagerly awaiting so many opportunities. The opportunity to return to active gardening once again by plunging hands into the warm soil, sowing seeds and nurturing garden dreams. It also means a return to favorite Master Gardener service activities or trying new ones. So much is in store for our Master Gardener Program this spring season.

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Save the Date! Celebrate our Master Gardener Community!

Metro area Master Gardeners are invited to a celebratory gathering to cultivate community and seed our future! The date is Sunday, June 4^th,  from 1:00pm-3:00pm at Millennium Park Plaza in Lake Oswego.

Look forward to an afternoon filled with informational and educational displays, door prizes, food, drink, and festive celebration!

We hope you will join in, and bring family and friends as we joyfully reunite and celebrate our Master Gardener Community, together.

More event details to come!

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“Let’s Talk Plants” at Markets and Community Events

Our Master Gardener ‘Let’s Talk Plants’ information tabling opportunities at area Farmers Markets and community events are launching soon! Check your schedule and get ready to sign-up for your favorite market or try visiting a market new to you. 

Please look for an email notification this week announcing the opening of registration on CERVIS for most market/community events.  Continue to check CERVIS throughout the season as more opportunities are posted.

Important Note: to allow as many MGs as possible to volunteer for their favorite market, we are limiting sign up for one specific market to 2 shifts maximum, for the first two weeks that registration is open. Please honor this request so that we will not need to unregister those who sign up for more than 2 shifts.

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Update Your CERVIS Profile

Sign-up for upcoming volunteer shifts at Farmers Markets and other special volunteer opportunities will be on CERVIS.  In order to be ready to sign-up, when the time comes, please visit CERVIS and update your profile, including your email address, mailing address and phone numbers.

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Weston Miller, A Grateful Farewell

It is bittersweet as we send a fond and grateful farewell to Weston Miller. In February Weston sent a letter to all metro area Master Gardeners sharing the news that he was moving on to a new career opportunity.

Read more as we wish Weston the best on his new venture.

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Welcome Amy and Lisa!

We are pleased to welcome two new members to the metro area OSU Master Gardener Program team.

Amy Espinoza is serving as an Education Program Assistant based in Washington County. She supports the Master Gardener volunteer program with a focus on expanding community outreach and service. 

Amy holds a bachelor’s degree with a dual major in Spanish/Arts & Letters, and a Master of Education in Library Media/K-12 classroom teaching. She brings over 20 years of professional experience working with several school districts and libraries, including teaching adult Spanish classes through Portland Community College. 

Amy has a passion for gardening, instilled in part by her mom and aunt, both accomplished gardeners. This year she is keenly focused on ensuring that her one-year-old Pix Zee peach tree will bear fruit despite our cold, wet start to spring.

Lisa Kirby joins the Master Gardener team as an Education Program Assistant based in Multnomah County. She is enthusiastic about the OSU Master Gardener Program having served 10 years as a Master Gardener volunteer.

Lisa has a broad outreach and engagement background with non-profit organizations. Recently Lisa served as both a volunteer and staff member at the Leach Botanical Garden. Her experience with plants extends to working for a number of nurseries in the area.

Lisa is a dedicated sustainable gardener and readily speaks about the impact gardeners can have taking care of the earth and each other. Whether a gardener grows native plants to support pollinators, veggies and fruits to bring to the table, or flowers to share beauty with others.

Both Amy and Lisa bring a wealth of skills and enthusiasm to support the Master Gardener program. Welcome, Amy and Lisa! 

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Dam Proud Day – One Day, Everyone Together

On April 26, 2023, Master Gardeners and supporters will come together to show our belief in the Master Gardener program and Oregon State University’s Dam Proud Day.

This 24-hour period is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of the Oregon State community, including supporting Master Gardeners, and stretching ourselves toward our aspirations.

The Master Gardener Program as been chosen as a featured fund on Dam Proud Day, so we have a special opportunity to raise money to support our work.

On one day, can you imagine what we could do together?

Here’s how Master Gardener volunteers, past and present, can help NOW.

1.     Follow OSU Extension Master Gardener on social media. www.facebook.com/OSUMG and @mastergardenersOSU on Instagram. Share our stories and posts about Dam Proud Day with your friends and followers.

2.     Show up on April 26th and make a donation online signaling your support for the Master Gardener program. It’s all online, all on one day. Donations large and small are all appreciated. Let’s see if the Master Gardener program can solicit the most donations on Dam Proud Day!  https://www.damproudday.org/

For Oregon State University’s Dam Proud Day, the Master Gardener Program is fundraising to support the Seed to Supper Program and an update of our foundational textbook, the Sustainable Gardening Handbook. The Seed to Supper program is a introductory vegetable gardening course for beginning and low-income gardeners, that includes considerations for gardeners who don’t have easy access to land. Our Sustainable Gardening Handbook is the text used to teach new Master Gardener volunteers. We need to update this resource, to include advances in the science of sustainable gardening, as well as consideration of climate change impacts on Oregon gardeners.

Donations can be as low as $5. A symbolic gift of $50 recognizes the 50 years that the Master Gardener Program has been serving communities across the United States! Every donation helps us get closer to our goal, and unlocking the FIVE challenge grant gifts that we have set up.

On one day, we can show up for gardening and Master Gardeners in Oregon!

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OSU Master Gardeners Showing their Pride

Check out the stories of OSU Master Gardeners who reached out to the statewide program team to share why they are #DamProud to be a Master Gardener. Plus see some familiar faces of your fellow metro area Master Gardeners. To read their stories visit the OSU Master Gardener Program News 

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Get Ready! It’s Plant Sale Season!

We are all eager for high gardening season and with that comes the excitement of the annual fundraising plant sales of the three metro area Master Gardener Associations.  A chance to load up on wish-list plants and to sign-up for some fun volunteer opportunities

Spring Garden Fair!

May 6^th and 7^th the iconic Clackamas County Master Gardener Association’s Spring Garden Fair will satisfy anyone’s plant lust! Perennials, annuals, natives, ornamentals, veggie, fruit, herbs, garden art and garden supplies!  10-minute University classes, Soil pH testing, New Plant Introductions, a fabulous raffle and more! Clackamas County Event Center, Canby.

To volunteer for the Spring Garden Fair go to: https://springgardenfair.org/volunteers/

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Gardenfest!

May 6^th the vibrant Washington County Master Gardener Association’s Gardenfest Plant Sale guides home gardeners in creating beautiful gardens that thrive!  Perennials, shrubs, vegetables, annuals, herbs, and garden tools! Classes that support successful gardening!  Find ideas that inspire as you tour the Washington Co. Master Gardener’s Education Garden. PCC Rock Creek Campus, Portland

To volunteer for the Gardenfest contact Larina Hoffbeck: hoffbeck@frontier.com

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Incredible Edibles Plant Sale!

Order TODAY! Plant orders are now open for the Multnomah County Master Gardener Association’s Incredible Edibles Plant Sale. The sale has moved to a pre-order format and is taking orders for organic veggie, fruit and herb plant starts now! Mini classes will guide gardeners in growing a bountiful harvest. Plant orders will be available for pick-up on Saturday, May 13^th (NE 16^th and Hancock Street).

To volunteer for the Incredible Edibles Plant Sale Set-up on May 12 go to: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/May12Setup

To volunteer for the Incredible Edibles Plant Sale on May 13 go to:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/May13Shifts

Be sure to mark your calendars to join in the fun volunteering and/or shopping to your heart’s content!

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In remembrance: Dr. Bernadine Strik

We saddened to share that Dr. Bernadine Strik passed away on April 24.  Dr. Strik was a renowned OSU berry researcher, and educator for 34 years.  She was incredibly generous, sharing her time and vast knowledge teaching Master Gardener classes over the decades. No doubt thousands of Master Gardeners have benefited from her teachings, as she traveled across the state. We send our heartfelt sympathies to her family. Here is more about the dedicated, amazing, kind, generous, Dr. Strik. https://extension.oregonstate.edu/news/bernadine-strik-remembered-amazing-person-mentor-friend

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Annual Master Gardener Requirements

Need a refresher on the annual requirements to maintain your Master Gardener certification? Visit here for all the details.  https://extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/metro/how-maintain-active-osu-master-gardener-status

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Warm Winter Wishes and Utmost Gratitude!

As 2022 nears its end, we want to take the opportunity to extend warm winter wishes and our utmost gratitude for your dedicated service as OSU Extension Service Master Gardeners.  Thank you for your selfless commitment educating others in successful and sustainable gardening practices. 

This year as we transitioned back to familiar, favorite, and new favorite volunteer opportunities know that your efforts have positively impacted so many in our community!  Thank you!

We look forward to seeing you in the New Year, as you continue to share your passion for education and gardening!

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Annual reporting, stickers and badges. Oh my!

Thank you to all who have submitted the annual required forms and reported your continuing education and volunteer service hours for 2022! As we transitioned back to in-person volunteer opportunities, you rose to the challenge generously supporting our communities with valuable gardening guidance and leveling up your knowledge by diving into a wide range of continuing education opportunities! Kudos to one and all!

For those who have fulfilled the requirements to maintain their status as an active and “current” Master Gardener you will receive a 2023 Recertification sticker to proudly display on your MG badge in mid-January.  The sticker is a designation that you are current and up-to-date, having completed all annual requirements.

Perennial MGs who have fulfilled the 10-hour continuing education requirement and have submitted the required forms will be sent their 2023 MG sticker in January.  For Perennial MGs still needing to complete their annual 10-hours of continuing education please refer to the September/October newsletter for designated continuing education opportunities and also see the information in the article below regarding recordings of our Fall Recertification webinars.

2020 and 2022 cohort members who have completed their Master Gardener training requirements will receive our hearty congratulation and their shining new OSU Master Gardener badge in January.

All 2020 and 2022 cohort members who have submitted the annual required forms will be sent (in January) a 2023 Master Gardener sticker to be displayed on their new OSU Master Gardener badge or if still working toward meeting the training requirements, displayed on their cohort training badge.

Review OSU Master Gardener annual requirements and Master Gardener training requirements here.

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Fall Recertification’s Reprise Informs

In November, we enjoyed the reprise of our Fall Recertification with 4 webinars focusing on information to support you in your role as garden educators.  Many thanks to our presenters, Cecile Evans, Dr. Gail Langellotto, OSU Master Gardener Program Manager, Alex Gorman, OSU Forestry and our very own Weston Miller, who all provided thoughtful, informative presentations.

If you were unable to attend, you can view recordings of three of the presentations here.

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Stellar Hands-on Workshops

To enrich our 2022 OSU Extension Service Master Gardener training, we ventured into the garden and offered 36 hands-on workshops for Master Gardener trainees. Nineteen garden-focused topics were presented that ranged from ‘Insect Identification’ to ‘Gardening for Wildlife’. 

The workshops were made possible all thanks to a team of experienced Master Gardener volunteers who developed and delivered the engaging hands-on instruction. 388 class slots were filled. Participants shared their appreciation for the hands-on opportunity, “The instructors were top-notch”, “I loved being in the garden, seeing plant pests and diseases up-close”.

A special shout-out of gratitude to Susan Albright, Sherry Sheng, and Corinne Thomas-Kersting for their time and efforts coordinating and guiding the development of the Hands-on Workshop curriculum in their county’s.

These science-based workshops support our Master Gardener training cohort members in serving as effective community educators.

Hearty thanks to these metro area OSU Master Gardeners who volunteered their time to plan and deliver 36 fantastic hands-on learning opportunities…

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Youth Garden Education Volunteer Opportunity

Do you enjoy teaching garden-focused classes to youth? Do you have interest in going into school classrooms and/or school gardens to teach, fun, engaging garden concepts? We are looking for a team of Master Gardener volunteers interested in school outreach.

Every year we receive multiple requests for Master Gardeners to teach at area schools and with these requests we have realized the need to have prepared ‘garden education kits’ which Master Gardener volunteers can easily take into classrooms and school gardens to deliver focused and engaging garden education curriculum.

In anticipation of school requests in the coming year, we are seeking Master Gardeners interested in participating in teaching youth. Master Gardeners would teach alongside a fellow MG volunteer. In advance of signing up to teach a specific class there will be an orientation to familiarize all volunteers with the ‘garden kit’ curriculum, along with completion of a criminal history check which is required by OSU for volunteers teaching youth.

A small yet mighty committee of metro area Master Gardeners have developed seven ‘garden education kits’ to launch this project. 

The topics include:

• Calling All Pollinators
• Invertebrates/Vertebrates In the Garden
• Some Insects are Heroes
• What Makes an Insect an Insect
• Wonderful Worms
  

Each kit includes learning objectives and an outline for delivering the class, including activities, and supplies. Volunteer time designated as ‘Program’ hours.

If you are interested in serving as a garden educator, alongside another metro area Master Gardener at area schools, please contact Marcia McIntyre.

Sincere thanks to the Education Outreach committee for developing these engaging and valuable lesson plans: Cheryl Borden, Cheryl Brock, Jane Collier, Larina Hoffbeck, Jack Lazareck, Corinne Thomas-Kersting, and Hope Preston.

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New! Valuable Pest Management Resource

After several years of extensive planning, collaboration, and fine-tuned development, a user-friendly, science-based, online resource to help urban and rural communities to solve pest problems is now a reality!  In partnership with OSU and Oregon stakeholders, Solve Pest Problems launched this fall with 50+ web pages focused on high-priority pests, pesticide safety, and pesticide risk reduction methods.

The project led by the vision of our very own metro area OSU Master Gardener Program manager, Weston Miller, prioritizes low-risk pest management approaches. The content focuses on topics to help Oregonians and anyone in the Pacific Northwest solve common pest problems. 

Solve Pest Problems has hundreds of high-quality color photos to correctly identify pests, along with practical prevention and control methods. With it’s science-based solutions it will serve as an invaluable resource for Master Gardeners guiding and supporting Oregon gardeners in successful and sustainable gardening practices.

Be sure to explore the site to discover more about this useful resource. If you missed Weston’s Fall Recertification presentation highlighting details about Solve Pest Problems, you can view the recording.

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OSU Extension Service Master Gardener Program News

Read the latest state-wide Master Gardener Program updates on the OSU Extension Master Gardener Program News blog. November updates share how diversity, equity and inclusion work is going for the Master Gardener Program and how we are growing who we are, who we serve and steps to creating a community where everyone belongs. Read all the details here.

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Winter Master Gardener Trivia

Master Gardener Trivia continues into the New Year in January and February. Open to Master Gardeners throughout Oregon, join-in for an evening of multiple-choice trivia, online. With 50 questions per session, learn about timely gardening topics, have fun, and earn valuable prizes.

Our metro area Master Gardeners fared well this fall with 2 prize winners! Congrats Megan and Rhonda!

Each session qualifies for one-hour Master Gardener Continuing Education credit.

How it works

Register below for each night you plan to play. Then the night of the event, join via Zoom, and play along via the trivia app “Slido” on your phone or computer. Instructions will be sent upon registration.

Valuable prizes each session!

1^st place: $100 gift certificate*

2^nd place: $50 gift certificate*

3^rd place $25 gift certificate

*Gift certificates to mail-order garden companies in the PNW such as Territorial Seed Company, Conifer Kingdom, Heirloom Roses, Noname Nursery, etc. Winners will receive gift certificates approximately one week after each event.

Register at the following links

• January 19, 2023, 6-7pm, Vegetable Victories: Successful food gardening
• February 16, 2023, 6-7pm, Being Fruitful: Managing orchard and small fruit challenges

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Oregon Season Trackers

Master Gardeners, are you interested in honing your observation skills to be a part of an important community science network? Join in to learn about Oregon Season Tracker, an Oregon State University Extension program. Volunteer observers across the state contribute to a network of data collection on precipitation and plant phenology by monitoring rain gauges and observing native plants in their backyards, farms, woodlands, and schools.  

Earn volunteer service hours while supporting this valuable program and learning more about your local environment.  Register for one of two upcoming informational webinars to learn more.

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