{"id":4112,"date":"2025-08-25T01:03:13","date_gmt":"2025-08-25T01:03:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/?p=4112"},"modified":"2025-08-27T06:56:31","modified_gmt":"2025-08-27T06:56:31","slug":"summer-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/2025\/08\/25\/summer-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Summer 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"Sunlight<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August.”
<\/p> Jenny Han<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Summer Highlights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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 \u201ctalk all things plants\u201d with Oregon gardeners, such as teaching Seed to Supper classes across the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The G.R.O.W. Approach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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 \u201cGROW Approach\u201d.

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!<\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"Pocket<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The time is ripe for Master Gardener\u2122 volunteer reporting! Take  <\/s>time now to log into our metro area Volunteer Reporting System (VRS) and report your volunteer and continuing education hours.  Login to VRS HERE.<\/a>

All reporting must be submitted in VRS by Friday, October 31st<\/sup> to earn 2026 MG certification status.<\/em><\/strong>

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<\/a> for details on maintaining your OSU Master Gardener certification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note:<\/strong> hours submitted in VRS are verified by staff as time allows, so don\u2019t despair if submitted hours are not verified for several weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fall Recertification: Save the Dates! <\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"Bumble<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Save the dates for our annual \u201cFall Recertification Webinars\u201d, <\/strong>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Save the dates!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Wednesday, November 5, 6:30pm
                            “Understanding Pesticides<\/em>“
                                        <\/strong>with Jennifer Gervais, National Pesticide Information Center<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thursday, November 6, 6:30pm<\/strong>
                           To be announced

Wednesday, November 19, 6:30pm
                             “Nectar and pollen plants of Oregon (reloaded)”<\/em>
                                          <\/strong>with Andony Melathopoulos, OSU, Associate Professor<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thursday, November 20, 6:30pm
                            \u201cGardening Made Easier: Using Solve Pest Problems\u201d
<\/em>                                          <\/strong>with Thomas Jima, OSU, Integrated Pest Management Educator<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An invitation to register for the <\/em>\u201cFall Recertification Webinars\u201d,<\/s> of your choice will be sent out in October.<\/em><\/strong><\/em><\/strong>
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Metro-area Master Gardeners Recognized for Their Service<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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<\/strong> and Dan McDonald<\/strong> for their invaluable service and contributions!

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

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Oregon Master Gardener Association Awards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Carole Hardy – Growing and Belonging<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Carole<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Carole Hardy\u2019s leadership and dedicated commitment to inclusive education is being recognized as the 2025 State \u201cGrowing and Belonging Award\u201d recipient. Carole has developed inclusive, research-based educational programs that enhance the Master Gardener Program\u2019s 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\u2019s (MCMGA) Demo Garden. She also initiated the MCMGA\u2019s \u201cLearn in the Garden\u201d 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carole developed new curriculum for the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association\u2019s \u201c10-Minute University\u2122 Let\u2019s Grow Together\u201d webinar series. She also co-designed a hands-on learning activity that is being used state-wide for the Master Gardener \u201cGarden Future\u201d initiative. Her efforts are planting seeds of knowledge that are growing strong community roots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dan McDonald – Behind the Scenes<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Dan<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Dan McDonald exemplifies the Master Gardener Program\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a driving force behind the Washington County Master Gardener Association\u2019s (WCMGA) \u201cGrow 1 Give 1\u201c(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\u2019s 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\u2019s annual fundraising event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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County Association Awards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Clackamas County Master Gardener Association<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

John and Amelia Wilbur – Clackamas County Master Gardeners of the Year!<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Amelia<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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

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 \u201cGarden Discovery Day\u201d and \u201cFall into Gardening\u201d while supporting hybrid access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more than 15 years, the Wilburs have built CCMGA\u2019s pH soil testing service, providing free testing and educational materials at community events. Amelia, affectionately known as the \u201cTomato Lady,\u201d has contributed countless educational hours through the 10-Minute University team\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As thoughtful mentors and community stewards, John and Amelia have inspired a generation of volunteers, cultivated partnerships, and strengthened CCMGA\u2019s mission at every turn. Their dedication has left an indelible mark on the organization\u2014and the greater Clackamas community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kirk Pearson \u2013 Behind the Scenes Master Gardener<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Kirk<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

With a sharp eye for what\u2019s needed and a willingness to act, Kirk Pearson supports the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association’s efforts out of genuine commitment to the mission.  

<\/strong>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2014providing 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kirk\u2019s work is often done quietly and without fanfare\u2014but its impact is unmistakable. He models what it means to serve with humility, consistency, and care. Kirk embodies the spirit of the \u201cBehind the Scenes\u201d award, and his efforts have helped grow both the garden and the greater Master Gardener community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nancy Muir – Growing and Belonging Award<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Nancy<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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 \u201ccome when you can, stay as long as you want\u201d invitation, and mentored dozens with science-based gardening methods and genuine warmth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019s story, she meets people where they are\u2014and helps them grow. Her legacy is one of nourishment, belonging, and empowerment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Multnomah County Master Gardener Association<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cynthia Chase \u2013 Master Gardener of the Year<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Cynthia<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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\u20132020), Vice President (2022\u20132023), and currently, as President\u2014a role she is continuing in 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cynthia is a thoughtful, collaborative leader who inspires others with her kindness, dedication, and \u201ccan-do\u201d attitude. She works to ensure that all volunteers, whether brand new or long-standing, feel welcome, included, and valued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019s contributions reflect the very best of what it means to be a Master Gardener: generous, dedicated, and deeply community-minded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bob Dueltgen – Behind the Scenes <\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Bob<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019s always ready to lend a hand or fill in when needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mike Rutherford – Behind the Scenes<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Mike<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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\u2014always with a smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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 \u201cyes\u201d, being eager to help, offering ideas, or lending a hand wherever needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mike\u2019s enthusiasm for gardening is contagious, and his willingness to engage deeply with the Program shines through in meetings, community outreach, and volunteer gatherings. He\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christine Semeniuk \u2013 Behind the Scenes<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Christine<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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\u2014volunteering at farmers markets, supporting community education through Seed to Supper, and contributing her time and talents to countless behind-the-scenes efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christine\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Washington County Master Gardener Association<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Robin Burnham \u2013 Master Gardener of the Year<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Robin<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Robin Burnham is a dedicated leader and educator whose work exemplifies the heart of the Master Gardener Program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2014seeding future food security and possibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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 \u201cIn the Garden\u201d class series and intern workshops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Karen Anderson – Behind the Scenes<\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Karen<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2014more 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Karen\u2019s Behind-the-Scene\u2019s recognition demonstrates sincere gratitude for her steadfast leadership and service that ensures our gardening community continues to grow!
 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Community Education Training<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you passionate about gardening and intrigued about educating others as a presenter but don\u2019t know where to start? This fall, we will be offering a \u201cCommunity Education Training\u201d 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 <\/a>and you will be notified when registration starts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up Webinars<\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"Graphic<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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

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.<\/a>

BONUS! <\/strong>You can watch videos of all past 2025 webinars HERE.<\/a>

*All 2025 Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up webinars count as 1-hour Continuing Education credit.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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“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… Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8248,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1180743,1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4112","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-newsletter","category-uncategorized"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4112","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8248"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4112"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4112\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4170,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4112\/revisions\/4170"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4112"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4112"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/mgmetro\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4112"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}