The Extension Master Gardener Volunteers of Lee County are turning 30!
In order to get to now, you have to start at the beginning. This article is a continuation of “Celebrating the Lee County Master Gardener Volunteers: 30 Years Young and Still Growing!”.
CHALLENGES THROUGH THE YEARS
Thirty years of existence does not come without its challenges. During this time, the dynamics of the Extension Master Gardener program in Lee County shifted from time to time. From 1996 to the present day, there have been seven different horticultural agents in Lee County. Each had their own style of teaching and emphasis on various aspects of the course.
At times, this position remained vacant for long periods. With dwindling numbers of volunteers to assist the public in the absence of an agent, Master Gardeners with the help of the Extension director provided a series of classes to recruit new students to the program. Instructors included agents from neighboring counties, experts from N.C. State and also some experienced Master Gardeners. With the help of Extension personnel and the administrative staff, the program has tried to remain consistent.
Over this time period, the volunteers have had their challenges too. Many have faced life changes, time constraints and relocation to other cities and towns. Some felt their interests had peaked, others experienced burnout from overextending their time. Many are still in the area and sadly, some have passed. The number of members in any given year have increased and receded for various reasons. Remember Covid? Remote outreach can only operate for so long without consequences. It took its toll. Fortunately with the current leadership, numbers are now on the uptick.
THE FUTURE — IT’S THE HUMAN ELEMENT
So, what’s in the future for the Master Gardeners? Time will tell. New research and technology are always coming to the forefront. Staying current is an education in itself. Artificial intelligence already has a role in Extension programs to enhance horticultural and agricultural aspects by monitoring pests and diseases. Its meaning and how it operates lies well beyond the scope of knowledge of this writer. It appears to be a valuable tool, but not a replacement for the human element.
In recent times, once locally undeveloped properties have exploded into new housing and expanding neighborhoods. With these smaller spaces, different growing techniques and good gardening practices will aid in productivity for growing fruits and vegetables in the home garden and be even more important and relevant in trying to retain pollinators and other important animals after their habitats decline. There remains a need for the latest information to reach communities across our area and the Extension Master Gardener volunteers are in a position to fill that niche. Hopefully they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
OUR VOLUNTEERS: THEN, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE
Thirty years have showcased the talents of these individuals. No matter their previous occupation, they have become leaders, educators, artists, photographers, public speakers, authors, designers and food ambassadors to the public through the EMG Volunteer Program. All have brought and continue to bring something unique to the table. They help provide that all-too-important human element and are content to get their hands just a little bit dirty. They have a lifelong love of gardening, and a gardener’s soul. It is inherent.
Thomas Jefferson is quoted as saying “Those who labour in the earth are the chosen people of God, if ever He had a chosen people…” To these chosen, past and present, we will add another candle on the cake. Hats off to you. Thirty years and still growing!
ARTICLE ATTRIBUTION
This article was written by Gail Griffin, Class of 1996, Extension Master Gardener Volunteer with North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Lee County; and edited by Amanda Bratcher, horticulture agent, NC Cooperative Extension- Lee County Center.
LEARN MORE
This article was written by Gail Griffin, Class of 1996, Extension Master Gardener Volunteer with North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Lee County.
Amanda Bratcher is the horticulture agent with N.C. Cooperative Extension- Lee County Center. You can reach out to the office at 919-775-5624 for more information or questions regarding this article, but also any other questions about your garden, farm, land or plants! We’re here to help! You can check out our website’s events page (for print: https://lee.ces.ncsu.edu/events/) for more information and to register for upcoming programs.
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