Grant-Adams Master Gardener Program regroups
Although there was some question late last year about the viability of the WSU Grant-Adams Master Gardener Program, master gardeners in Grant-Adams Counties report that it is as vital and vibrant as it was before. It will continue to operate using the science-based principles and practices that make it a credible program, providing the public with recommendations for sustainable gardening as well as good training for master gardener volunteers.
The program will continue to depend on the Washington State University Extension for oversight with assistance from support staff at the Moses Lake WSU Extension office.
The primary change is that the WSU-supported Master Gardener coordinator position is no longer a paid position due to budget cuts. As is not unusual throughout the state, master gardeners volunteers have assumed the duties of master gardener coordinator. Master Gardeners Duane Pitts, Terry Rice and Mark Amara are now serving as volunteer co-coordinators.
The public may continue to bring samples to the office at 1525 E. Wheeler Road in Moses Lake, call in their questions at 509-754-2011 x 4313, or request assistance through the online clinic (ga.mgvolunteers@ad.wsu.edu). Plant clinics will operate through the growing season on most Saturdays in Moses Lake, Ephrata and occasionally in Othello.
Fourth Annual Columbia Basin Eco-Gardening Symposium Taking Signups
A half-day gardening workshop will be held in Moses Lake on Saturday, April 21, 2018 from 9-1 PM at the Columbia Basin Technical Skills Center, 900 E. Yonezawa Blvd. The event is organized jointly by the Grant-Adams Master Gardeners and Grant County Conservation District.
The theme for the 2018 event is Swing into Spring. A trio of accomplished speakers is scheduled. Allan Felsot will discuss pesticides in the garden. Felsot’s talk will be followed by Karen Lewis who will speak about managing home orchards. Linda Chalker-Scott will close the program out with a fascinating talk on dispelling common garden myths.
The event will be accompanied by door prizes, a vendor marketplace and refreshments provided free of charge. Space is limited, so applicants are encouraged to pre-register as soon as possible through Grant County Conservation District by calling 509-765-9618, by signing up in person or through the mail at the Conservation District office at 1107 S. Juniper Drive, Moses Lake, or by registering online at: www.columbiabasincds.org.