Since 2012, the Kentucky Extension Master Gardener Programhas held annual state conferences.  Conference locations move around the state andhave included Lexington, Alexandria, Shepherdsville, Owensboro, Pikeville andmost recently, Georgetown. Conferences involve educational sessions, workshops,tours, a creative contest, a banquet, and opportunities for Master Gardeners toshare information about projects. The 2018 conference is scheduled for Octoberin Paducah and will include a first-ever state awards recognition. Awards willbe given in three categories: Outstanding Individual Master Gardener,Outstanding Master Gardener Group, and up to two awards in the KentuckyExtension Master Gardener Search for Excellence which recognizes outstandingMaster Gardener projects. Master Gardeners may also enter their projects in theInternational Search for Excellence competition that occurs in conjunction withthe International Master Gardener Conference held in odd-numbered years.