Barren, Metcalfe, and Monroe Counties are home to a combined population of over 60,000 residents. Discussions with homeowners, program councils, and current Extension Master Gardener volunteers indicated a growing interest in home & consumer horticulture.

Barren, Metcalfe, and Monroe County Cooperative Extension Services collaborated to host an Extension Master Gardener program. The volunteer training class consisted of 14 sessions during the fall of 2018. Agents and University of Kentucky Specialists conducted classroom and hands-on activities. The Kentucky Extension Master Gardener manual was utilized throughout the class.

Participants included homeowners and small horticulture producers. Participants were interviewed to determine their interest in horticulture topics, and an emphasis was placed on their willingness to volunteer and share what they learned with others. A comprehensive exam was given at the conclusion of the program. A total of 17 people took the final exam and completed the program.

The Barren River Area Extension Master Gardener Association members assisted the agents in many aspects throughout the course. They volunteered to grade homework, hand out materials, setup the snack break, and score the exams.

Participants completed a written survey about the strengths and weaknesses of the program, as well as what they learned. One participant stated, “I believe I will have a better yard and have a better garden. I also feel more comfortable with sprays. Rather than spraying everything with Sevin, I’ll have knowledge of alternatives.” Another referenced, “The importance of getting a soil test and reading the label.” Finally, one stated, “I learned how relevant and important extension service programs and information are to all areas of agriculture and natural resources.”