Describe the Issue or Situation.   Master Gardener Extension Volunteers are people who have earned and maintained their certification through training conducted by Kentucky Extension specialists and agents. They contribute to their communities by offering educational programs for both youth and adults and engaging in community service projects. They serve by conducting educational programs for youth and adults and community service projects, instilling confidence in their knowledge and skills.  

Georgetown/Scott County ranks among Kentucky’s fastest-growing areas for over two decades. According to the latest census figures, this steady growth continues, with Georgetown now becoming Kentucky’s sixth-largest city. As population growth continues, so does the demand for horticultural assistance in educational programs, soil samples, plant diagnostics, identification, basic gardening guidance, and what grows best in the changing climate, to mention a few requests. 

With the last Master Gardener Certification Program conducted in Scott County canceled by the COVID-19 pandemic, it was time to host another Scott County Horticulture certification program.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable). The initiative involved collaboration with the UK Cooperative Extension and the county’s current Master Gardener Volunteers.  In October 2024, the County Extension launched a 20-week Master Gardener Certification Program. The program covered various topics, including Botany, Entomology, Pesticide Safety, Water Quality, Plant Pathology, Soils and Fertility, Composting, Plant Propagation, Turf Management, and Evergreen Ornamentals. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience. This program, designed for those with a keen interest in horticulture, attracted nine local participants who were interviewed and deemed strong candidates. Four of the participants were African American; half (5) of the group were retired, and the other half (4) were younger participants in their early 30s to 50s with family obligations and jobs. 

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact.

When the 20-week training course ended, all participants completed the educational requirements, passed the final exam, and earned their title as Scott County Master Gardener Volunteer Apprentice.  

The newly certified Master Gardener Volunteers are well on their way to making a significant impact, already contributing vital Volunteer hours to the County Cooperative Extension. Their projects, such as writing newspaper articles,  assisting in the creation of a community garden, packaging and delivering seeds for FREE SEED Giveaway as well assisting in growing plants for the community, collaborating with programs such as the Garden EXPO, Summer Garden Party at Ward Hall, and participating in beautification projects, and supporting novice gardening programs, have and will make a difference in the growing community.

A Qualtrix survey was created for participants and is awaiting responses. 

Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.