Success StoryConnecting Gardeners to Local Resources



Connecting Gardeners to Local Resources

Author: Kelly Jackson

Planning Unit: Christian County CES

Major Program: Home & Consumer Horticulture

Plan of Work: To add value to the life and well being of citizens through actions that produce tangible benefits.

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The Christian County 2020 Vision Plan, prepared by the local Chamber of Commerce, is a plan to guide improvements in the community and bring together multiple community partners in a unified approach to achieve progress. One goal of the vision plan seeks economic growth through more retail opportunities. Another goal is to enhance recreational opportunities that bear a low user cost to the average citizen. Utilizing Master Gardener volunteers, the Cooperative Extension Service in Christian County developed and hosted a Garden and Outdoor Living EXPO in April 2019 to provide more retail opportunities to local and regional horticulture product and service providers in a free, family-friendly atmosphere. Short educational classes were offered on the second day. Over 800 local residents interacted with 46 vendors during the 2-day EXPO. A survey of vendors (n=41), indicated sales totaling nearly $14,000 during the event. Prospective sales estimates by vendors totaled $23,000. Vendors said the EXPO was a valuable tool to help reach their customers. Exit surveys of 72 EXPO attendees, indicated they spent a collective total of $1,880 and comments included “We enjoyed the speakers and Q and A times” and they indicated they “loved the variety of vendors”.






Stories by Kelly Jackson


Vegetable Education Outreach

about 4 months ago by Kelly Jackson

Interest in vegetable gardening, especially among younger generations, has seen a resurgence in rece... Read More


Connecting Gardeners to Local Resources

about 4 months ago by Kelly Jackson

The Christian County 2030 Vision Plan, prepared by the local Chamber of Commerce, is a plan to guide... Read More


Stories by Christian County CES


How We Touch the Water

How We Touch the Water

about 4 months ago by Matthew Futrell

Water quality has a deep impact on everyone it touches. In our day-to-day lives we dont give much th... Read More


A Renewed Confidence

A Renewed Confidence

about 4 months ago by Matthew Futrell

Community Gardens are a two fold approach to supporting our local community. From first look, a gard... Read More