Extension Master Gardener volunteers play a vital role in the outreach of the Cooperative Extension Service into the community. They seek opportunities to fulfill their goal of helping others through sharing science-based gardening knowledge gained through this extension program taught by the horticulture agent in Daviess County.   

A total of 50 Extension Master Gardeners reported that they volunteered 3,393 hours toward educational projects involving horticulture in the community this fiscal year. The total value of the volunteer service to the community was $74,646. Participants in this program demonstrated the knowledge they gained by answering questions from clientele through educational booths at events such as the Owensboro Home and Garden Show and Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market. They also contributed by recording "how-to" videos on horticultural topics and posting them on their Facebook page with agent approval, maintaining the Raised Bed Demonstration Garden, and sharing plants and information with Habitat for Humanity homeowners to use in his or her landscape.  The volunteers continue to develop their leadership skills in teamwork through various projects such as Seed Library, which brings financial security and cost savings to residents.  Over 3000 packages of seed were distributed through the library this past spring.  In addition, the Master Gardeners play an important role at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden in Owensboro through developing and maintaining gardens.  This garden contributes to the local economy through attracting tourist and serves as a valuable part of the community.