During a ceremony on Friday November 18, 2009 Judge Byron Ryder joined Tommy Neyland County Extension Agent in honoring a new group of Master Gardener Interns for the completion of their 50hr training course. This new crop of local community leaders has an active interest in their lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers and gardens. They are enthusiastic, willing to learn and to help others, and able to communicate with diverse groups of people. What really sets Master Gardeners apart from other home gardeners is their special training in horticulture. In exchange for their training, persons who become Master Gardeners contribute time as volunteers, working through our Extension office to provide horticultural-related information to our communities. In exchange for training, participants are asked to volunteer time to our County Extension program. At least 50 hours of volunteer service within one year following the training is required to earn the title of "Texas Master Gardener." The type of service done by Master Gardeners varies according to community needs, and the abilities and interests of the Master Gardeners. Some Master Gardeners answer telephone requests for information related to gardening. Others staff plant clinics or displays in shopping malls or community centers. Master Gardeners may speak to local groups and conduct workshops. They may help establish community garden projects, work with 4-H youth, or assist their agent with news or radio releases related to gardening. Master Gardeners are representatives of Texas Agrilife Extension, and The Texas A&M University System. In all volunteer work related to the program, Master Gardeners follow the research-based recommendations of Texas Agrilife Extension. Participants become certified Master Gardeners after they have completed the training course and fulfilled their volunteer commitment.
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Texas Agrilife Extension Service Master Gardener Interns, Clara Jones, Marianne Gage, Judy Johnson, Cherlynn MacGregor, Mary Cofield, Ron Hale, Pastor Joy Richards, Cozy Taylor and CEA Tommy Neyland and Judge Byron Ryder.
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