Success StoryMaster Gardener State Conference



Master Gardener State Conference

Author: Jessica Hopkins

Planning Unit: Harrison County CES

Major Program: Master Gardener

Plan of Work: Community Engagement and Economic Development

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Master Gardeners are individuals who have earned and maintained certification through training conducted by Kentucky Extension specialists and agents.  They serve their communities by conducting educational programs for youth and adults and community service projects.  Continuing education and leadership development are important components of the Master Gardener Program to maintain their certification.

In 2017, the Horticulture Agents of District Four (Central Kentucky) hosted the Kentucky Master Gardener Conference. The two-day event offered educational programs and tours. Master Gardener groups presented programs on best practices and innovative programs that were successful in their counties.

Those completing the evaluation survey expressed appreciation of the:

- wide variety of programs offered, including a national award winning garden designer, Jon Carloftis, entomology, permaculture, cover crops, and genetically modified organisms

- tours of farms, a community supported agriculture operation, agritourism operations and a Japanese garden 

- and networking

All of the participants expressed plans to adopt one or more practices learned during the conference such a use of cover crops, planting for pollinators, adding cut flower gardens, and weed control and soil conservation practices.

One individual suggested creating a Master Gardener scholarship program.






Stories by Jessica Hopkins


Let's Grow a Container Garden!

Let's Grow a Container Garden!

about 1 years ago by Jessica Hopkins

Based upon the need for healthier eating, at home, the Harrison County SNAP-Ed Assistant approached ... Read More


BARN: Farm Dinner Theater

BARN: Farm Dinner Theater

about 1 years ago by Jessica Hopkins

Farmers and farmworkers consistently report high levels of stress associated with commodity producti... Read More


Stories by Harrison County CES


Let's Grow a Container Garden!

Let's Grow a Container Garden!

about 1 years ago by Jessica Hopkins

Based upon the need for healthier eating, at home, the Harrison County SNAP-Ed Assistant approached ... Read More


Monthly Walking Challenges through Urban Hikes

Monthly Walking Challenges through Urban Hikes

about 1 years ago by Shelley Meyer

The problem Downtown Cynthiana, KY is an up-and-coming rural community with flourishing tourism,... Read More