In Bourbon County, the rising interest in sustainable gardening, local food production, and community beautification has highlighted a growing need for trained horticulture volunteers who can support these efforts with research-based knowledge. Many residents are eager to contribute but lack formal training and connection to Extension resources. In response, the Bourbon County office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service implemented the 2025 Master Gardener Program to address this need.

The program was delivered in a hybrid format that combined weekly in-person sessions with independent study of the Kentucky Master Gardener Manual, curated YouTube videos, and selected audio recordings. Participants engaged in guided discussion and review sessions led by the Bourbon County Horticulture Agent, which helped reinforce key concepts and provide space for interaction. The goal was to prepare volunteers to not only expand their gardening knowledge but to give back through community-based horticulture projects. Local partners included community food banks, the Bourbon County Arboretum, public library, parks and recreation board, and other civic organizations coordinating educational events and volunteer projects.

Thirteen adults completed the educational component of the 2025 Master Gardener training. Participants included community members with a shared interest in gardening and giving back. End-of-program evaluations were completed by eight participants and reflected overwhelmingly positive feedback. All respondents indicated they were either “Very satisfied” or “Satisfied” with the program, and every respondent said they would recommend it to others. Participants also reported significant increases in gardening confidence: 63% said they felt “Much more confident,” while 37% felt “Somewhat more confident.” Topics rated as especially valuable included fruit tree care, grafting, soil health, organic vegetable gardening, and lawn care. Participants also expressed high appreciation for the Master Gardener Manual and video resources, citing their usefulness as long-term references.

Perhaps the most meaningful outcome is the volunteer impact. All 13 program completers are now prepared to give back a minimum of 40 hours of service each to community horticulture projects. Planned efforts include educational gardening events, home and garden shows, support for food bank gardens, programming at the Bourbon County Arboretum, and community garden maintenance. This commitment totals 520 hours of volunteer service, valued at more than $15,215 based on the 2025 Kentucky volunteer labor rate of $29.26/hour. This contribution represents not only the dedication of these trained individuals but also the Extension Service’s ongoing impact in cultivating local leaders who improve lives and strengthen communities through horticulture.