Extension Master Gardener Program Graduates Fourteen

Fourteen people participated in the Extension Master Gardener (EMG) training program this past spring in McDowell County.  The students met one time a week for 13 weeks.  Different horticultural topics were covered including:  plant propagation, botany, landscape design, lawn care, woody ornamentals, and vegetables.  The Extension Master Gardener graduates as pictured from left to right are:  Betty Reaves, Laurie Gavle, Anna Flory, Donna Poteat, Beth Anderson, Janda Hefner, Amy Moomaw, Phyllis Howell, Teresa Carley, Sharon Morrison with  County Extension Director and EMG program coordinator, Molly Sandfoss.  Not pictured are Anne Allen, Cathy Pyatt, and Skip Queen. 


The Extension Master Gardener program is an educational program designed to enhance public education in consumer horticulture.  It provides educational assistance to the citizens of McDowell County concerning lawns, fruits, vegetables, trees, and ornamentals.

Participants in the program must complete the training program, pass an examination, and volunteer a minimum of 40 hours per year (20 hours in subsequent years) through the McDowell County Center.


The Extension Master Gardener program allows the McDowell County Center to extend education to an ever increasing gardening audience.  It also provides the local center with a highly visible way to meet the public demand for information and to develop a strong clientele support group.

Volunteer programs throughout the county include:  community garden construction and demonstration garden, school beautification projects, school-age education, adopt-a-spot, and plant clinics.  If you are interested in the Extension Master Gardener program, we are always accepting applications.  Call the Extension office at 828-652-8104 to apply.