July 31, 2007
New Openings in Master School Gardener Program
Our Master School Gardener Program is entering its second year and we are ready to expand the program to include four or five new members. Our present cardre of Master School gardeners are: Kathy Bernrreuter, Carol Gittler, LynnHyndman, Bobbie Jordan, Linda Khalouf, Clare Mostek, Susan Perdomo, MaryAnne Spinner and Marilyn Witney.
What is the Master School Gardener Program?
As Master Gardeners we have joined Green Teacher Network, the partnership of Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Chicago Botanic Garden and Openlands. Green Teacher Network holds quarterly hands-on gardening training for member Chicago Public School teachers who want to pursuea garden project in their own school. These projects range from a plant on the window sill, to a raised bed, to a full garden. Every school is unique.
What is the Master School Gardener role?
When a Master School Gardener is matched with a Green Teacher Network school, the role is to act as a horticultural and resource advisor. We want to change the model of how we assist schools from the "hands on, take charge" expert to that of someone who has knowledge, and resources to share for building a sustainable program in that particular school.
How can you become a Master School Gardener?
1. Send a short paragraph describing your interest in the program to Horticulture Educator Matt Kostelnick at mkosteln@uiuc.edu.
2. Commit to a one day training session on Saturday, August 25,to be held at the U of I Extension Office at 300 North Elizabeth Street in Chicago.
3. Be available to spend 2-4 hours a month in a collaborative relationship with your assigned school.
4. Master School Gardeners meet quarterly to exchange ideas and for further training, usually on Monday evenings, 6:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. at the Elizabeth office.
If this is the right volunteer opportunity for you, send your request to:
Matt Kostelnick mkosteln@uiuc.eduand copy to Elizabeth Bruhns at ebruhns@uiuc.edu
For more information: The program will be outlined briefly at the July 31 Master Gardener meeting at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Elizabeth
Chicago Master Gardener Blog
http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/blogs/eb6/index.html
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:52 AM | Permalink |
July 31, 2007
Jackie Paine: Master Gardener Success Story
When I applied for the 2003 U of I Extension Master Gardener program, I was interviewed by Laurie Lewis. During the interview, one of Laurie's comments really made an impression on me. He said that becoming a Master Gardener would dramatically change some MG's lives. At the time I had no idea that I would be one of those people.
I thoroughly enjoyed the MG classes and the opportunities to volunteer for many interesting projects all over the Chicago area... I was also fascinated by the diverse backgrounds of the Master Gardeners I started meeting.
In 2004, Sydney Barton, the volunteer coordinator for the MG Plant Clinic at Garfield Park Conservatory was ready to move on, I volunteered to take over from her, and have been doing the Plant Clinic scheduling for almost 3 years now. I have really enjoyed getting to know the many MG's who volunteer at Garfield Park. I was also very surprised to learn about all the variety of full- and part time positions that were available to Master Gardeners. Early this year I decided it was time to make a career change, and shortly after that, I received the email from Elizabeth Bruhns about a position as Executive Director of the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. I applied immediately, and, much to my delight, the position was offered to me. I started my new job at FOPCON mid-July and still am dazed at how quickly my life has changed.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:08 AM | Permalink |
July 30, 2007
Master Gardener Reports on Monarch Butterflies
Master Gardener Catherine Murphy reports on Monarch Butterflies in downtown Chicago:
Just wanted to let you all know that there are a zillion monarch butterfly chrysalis on State Street downtown! They are at State and Lake in the little garden in front of that TV station. If you look on the palm that looks like a purple yucca you can see a lot of little green chysali.Then once you see them you can see a whole lot more. There are some clinging to the grasses too - with a lot of spent chyrsali also and probably some newly emerged monarchs. We just came back from there and saw 3-4 newly emerged monarchs and some caterpillars along with the chrysali. When they first emerge they have to stretch and rest so you can get a great view of our usually restless friends. I cut some leaves yesterday that were close to the walkway for my kids in After School Matters class and to protect them from little interested plucking fingers but the ones on the street side are still there. I found one chyrsalis on a very short stem lying on the ground. I took that home and suspended the stick on the neck of a syrup jar (as the stick was so short and it was the only way to suspend the chysalis) and this morning we had a monarch stuck in the bottom of a jar! Jan cut the top of the jar though and now he is warming his wings on the curry plant in on our back porch - he'll fly tonight. The chrysalis turn dark before they open and they like to emerge in the morning and the evening. I hope everyone can get a chance to see them.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:47 PM | Permalink |
July 29, 2007
Online Courses and Workshops from Illinois Department of Natural Resources
1. Fall Semester Online Courses for Graduate or CPDU Credit
The IDNR's Division of Education and the University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS) are offering online courses for graduate credit (4 hours) or Continuing Professional Development Units (60 CPDUs) during Fall Semester 2007 through the UIS Master of Teacher Leadership program.
EDL 560 Introduction to Illinois' Natural Resources for Teachers will include the examination, research and practical application of Illinois natural resources information with the goals of understanding location, composition, utilization, conservation and issues.
EDL 587 Introduction to Illinois' Woodland Ecology for Teachers will include the examination, research and practical application of Illinois' woodland resources information with the goals of understanding location, composition, utilization, conservation and issues.
To be eligible to register, students must first contact UIS admissions at 1 888 977 4847. Once students have been admitted to UIS, they may contact Raelynne Kynion at 1 217 206 7516 or rkyni1@uis.edu to receive permission to register for the classes.
2. Illinois' Natural Resources Trading Cards Set #2
Sixty three Illinois species are highlighted on the second set of Illinois' Natural Resources Trading Cards and their accompanying poster from the IDNR Division of Education. The two-sided poster depicts the entire set of cards on the front, while the reverse side contains suggestions for using the cards to support teaching of the Illinois Learning Standards. One set of cards and one poster per teacher may be requested in writing on school letterhead. Send requests to: IDNR Education, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702 1271. No phone, fax or email requests will be accepted. If you don't have Illinois' Natural Resources Trading Cards Set #1 and poster, be sure to request them as well. Please indicate which set of cards you are requesting.
3. Register Now for Upcoming ENTICE Professional Development Workshops
Join us for an enlightening ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) teacher workshop from the IDNR! ENTICE workshops provide background information, lessons, supplemental resources and Continuing Professional Development Units. To see complete workshop descriptions and/or to register, visit http://www.ilcf.org/Workshop/Courses.asp.
Upcoming workshops include the following titles:
Illinois' Insects, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, Batavia, September 8, 2007
Illinois' Spiders, Giant City State Park, Makanda, September 14, 2007
Illinois River Fishes, Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton, September 14, 2007
Illinois' Spiders, Douglas-Hart Nature Center, Mattoon, September 21, 2007
Illinois' Butterflies, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago, September 22, 2007
Posted by Ron Wolford at 6:16 PM | Permalink |
July 29, 2007
Insect and Spider Resources
1. New Posters from the IDNR Division of Education
Habitats are Homes and Illinois' Threatened and Endangered Species are the latest additions to the flora and fauna poster series from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' Division of Education. Each 24" x 36" poster is two-sided. The front of the Habitats are Homes poster depicts animals found in the four main habitats in the state. The back side provides information about the value of wildlife habitat, how habitats change, what you can do to enhance/develop/maintain wildlife habitat, resources to access and grant programs available. Thirty species currently listed as endangered in Illinois are depicted on the Illinois' Threatened and Endangered Species poster. Information about these species is provided along with why species are listed as endangered or threatened, what students and the general public can do to help endangered/threatened species and more. These posters were made possible in part by a grant from the Illinois Wildlife Preservation Fund. To order, visit the online order form at http://www.idnrteachkids.com.
2. Teachers and Students: Help Us Learn About Spiders in Illinois
Join teachers and students from throughout Illinois as they take to the outdoors (and indoors) to collect data about spiders! A cooperative project between the IDNR Division of Education, Northwestern University, the Field Museum and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, the IDNR Illinois Biodiversity Spider Study will be conducted through Northwestern University's online Collaboratory Project.
Teachers and their students will learn about spiders in the state and undertake a year-long data collection study about two species commonly found in and around schools. All information is accessed through and posted to the Collaboratory Project. Scientists from the IDNR will monitor data collections and utilize the results in their research. There is no cost to participate, and classes will be able to communicate with students/teachers at other schools to compare results and discuss their experiences.
Teachers who participate in the workshop will be able to share experiences and best practices. Fifteen Continuing Professional Development Units are available as well. To enroll in the IDNR Illinois Biodiversity Spider Study, interested teachers should email the following information to Valerie Keener at valerie.keener@illinois.gov: your name; school email address; school name; school city; school phone number; and the grade(s) that you teach.
3. Illinois' Insects and Spiders Resources Trunks Now Available for Loan
Students are fascinated by insects and spiders. Help them learn more about these creatures by borrowing one of the new Illinois' Insects and Spiders resources trunks produced by the IDNR Division of Education. Each trunk contains books, field guides, equipment, posters, CD-ROMs, life cycle models, observation containers and much more. There's also an Illinois-specific "Crime-Solving Insects" forensic activity. Targeted to grades K-6, the trunks can be borrowed from 30 locations throughout Illinois. For a list of lending locations, visit http://dnr.state.il.us then click on the "Education" button in the right side bar. On the next page, select the link to "Items for Loan."
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:23 AM | Permalink |
July 26, 2007
New Horticulture and Design Course Offerrings in Chicago Area
Registrations for Fall Courses are open and Horticulture and Design courses are available for you!
The University of Illinois has started a new degree completion program in Horticulture in the Chicagoland market.
Starting just a year ago, Greg Pierceall, a Professor of Landscape Architecture, joined the University of Illinois faculty to assist in launching this new degree completion program.
The program is housed in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES). The Chicago area teaching facilities are in Oakbrook, Illinois, with academic partners at the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Morton Arboretum.
Interested individuals can sign up for classes now, for personal and professional development or as a degree-seeking individual.
The program is based on building the pathway from a community or junior college, to a four year degree in Horticulture. Graduate course credits are also available, should you have an undergraduate degree already.
The program is designed for interested and place-bound persons wanting a four year degree, without going to Urbana, the main campus to complete this effort.
Fall courses to be offered are Landscape Design, meeting Thursday nights in Oakbrook; Woody Landscape Plants, meeting Tuesday nights at the Morton Arboretum; and Herbaceous Plant materials meeting Monday nights in Oakbrook. Courses start the week of August 20, 2007.
For more information about the program visit http://www.nres.uiuc.edu/Dynamic.aspx?PageId=145 or to register please visit www.outreach.uiuc.edu. Interested students may also contact Piper Hodson, NRES Student Services Coordinator at 217-244-5761 or phodson@uiuc.edu or Heather Miller, Outreach Program Coordinator, at hmiller1@uiuc.edu or 217-265-6568.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:30 PM | Permalink |
July 26, 2007
Volunteer at North-Grand High School
Hello Master Gardeners,
Students at North-Grand High School in Chicago are working with After School Matters and the Cob Connection to expand the school garden and build a gazebo from cob, a mixture of clay, sand and straw.
The COB Connection has requested the help of interested Master Gardeners. This is really cool experience. We made a COB table in our garden last fall. What FUN!~Nancy
For more details on what you may get into visit the blog at ngcobconnection.blogspot.com
When: Monday, August 6, 2007 - Workday for MGs
Where: North-Grand High School- 4338 West Wabasnia
Time: 8 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
Contact: Chad Bliss <chadwildwindwolf@hotmail.com>
General Workdays: Everyday from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Please contact Chad before coming.
Thank you.
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th St.
Chicago, IL. 60655
p 773.233.0476
f773.233.0910
c 708.567.6101
Please email me at nkreith@gmail.com
Posted by Ron Wolford at 10:07 PM | Permalink |
July 24, 2007
Master School Gardener Training
Master School Gardeners,
I hope your summer is going well and things are growing great. At the last MSG meeting, some of you stated you would like to learn more about growing cool season crops. I would like to conduct training for this, perhaps some time in August. I know a lot of people might be on vacation, but we should do it before the school year starts. For those of you interested in a training like this, please email me a list of dates that will work for you (let's have the training in the evening at 6 p.m. so those working can attend). If it's easier, you can send me dates that won't work. This is not a mandatory quarterly meeting, but a meeting you should plan on attending if you plan to work with cool season crops. Please let me know your availability and we will get something scheduled. Also let me know if there are other topics you would like to learn more about and we might fit those in as well.
Matt Kostelnick
University of Illinois Extension
Horticulture Educator
Cook County, District Four
300 N. Elizabeth, Suite 310-C
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 752-4692
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:54 PM | Permalink |
July 24, 2007
Volunteer for Meet the Bees
Volunteers are still needed for this Saturday's Meet the Bees July 28th
Hi Everyone,
We are still in need of volunteers to help facilitate the family activities, staff the welcome table, help the bands set up, and celebrate our first honey harvest this year. See below for more information about the activities for the Meet the Bees.
There are two volunteer shifts:
Morning Shift: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Afternoon Shift: 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Please email me at hpicciuca@garfieldpark.org with your shift preference if you would like to help out this Saturday.
Thanks so much,
Harmony Picciuca
Garden and Volunteer Programs Coordinator
Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance
300 N. Central Park Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60624
773.638.1766 x 24
Special Family Event: Meet the Bees!
Saturday July 28th, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., free
Come on out to the Garfield Park Conservatory's Demonstration Garden for a day of bee fun! Our summer honey is coming off the hives and it's time to celebrate.Our volunteer bee keepers will be posted at education stations throughout the garden, ready to answer your questions about our hard-working insect friends. Kid and family activities include designing your own bee goggles, crafting a nectar cup, learning a groovy bee hive dance, and exploring the growing ingredients of a special flower scavenger hunt. Plus you will be able to purchase honey made right here by our Conservatory bees, listen to live music, and last but not least – get a good taste of honey! Please, come join in the buzz.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:38 PM | Permalink |
July 21, 2007
Attend Dawes School Edible Garden Celebration
Dawes School Edible Garden Celebration
Hosted by: Slow Food Chicago & the Dawes School Garden Committee
Where: Dawes School
440 Dodge, Evanston, IL
(at Dodge & Oakton)
Garden is located behind the school on Oakton.
When: August 9th, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Weather Permitting
Please bring a potluck dish to share. This is an opportunity to network and to view the Dawes School Edible Garden that serves the whole school.
How we eat is as important as what we eat. Come eat with pleasure in the Dawes Garden of Eatin'
RSVP to: Lynn Hyndman
Lhynd@sbcglobal.net
Seating Limited. Please indicate how many people will attend in your party.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 10:09 AM | Permalink |
July 20, 2007
Help at Ag School Plant Clinic
Master Gardeners,
It is the height of the growing season and the phone is ringing off the hook at the Extension office at the Chicago Ag High School, 3807 W. 111th Street.
Nancy Kreith needs Master Gardeners there every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. This office has a good reference library and easyaccess to the Internet.
This fulfills a volunteer "Plant Clinic" requirement. Remember to remain an active Master Gardener you must do one session at a Plant Clinic per year. If you are an intern you must do two.
Choose a date that you can volunteer and contact:
Nancy Kreith
773-233-0476
Thanks,
Elizabeth
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:07 PM | Permalink |
July 20, 2007
Help at Eli's Cheesecake Farmers' Market
This Thursday, July 26, I will be at the Ask A Master Gardener table at the Farmers Market at Eli's Cheese Cake World at 6701 W. Forest Preserve Drive from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
I would really like to have another Master Gardener accompany me. Contact me if your can.
On July 26 the Tribune is coming to visit the Farmers' Market, so a Master Gardener presence is important. The Hungry Hound from Channel 7 will be featuring this Farmers Market on the 10:00 p.m. news, Wednesday, July 25.
Beyond this Thursday:
We want to have Master Gardener representation on as many Thursday market days as possible through October. Contact me at ebruhns@uiuc.edu if you can be available any other Thursday.
This is a very pleasant place to volunteer. We have our materials stored there so there is nothing to carry. And, it is in the parking lot of Eli's Cheesecake Company.(Easy access to the store and free samples!)
Thanks to Pam Rock who has volunteered twice in July and to Susan O'Dell who has a date in August.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:48 PM | Permalink |
July 19, 2007
Volunteer at Plant Clinic
Master Gardeners: Please don't forget that to keep your active Master Gardener status you must complete at least one session at a Plant Clinic or "As a Master Gardener " table at a garden walk or farmers' market.
Here are open opportunities at the Plant Clinic at Garfield Park. Please respond directly to Jackie Paine at msjlpaine@aol.com
Thanks,
Elizabeth
Msjlpaine@aol.com wrote:
Elizabeth,
I need volunteers as follows:
July: 28, 29
August:5, 11, 18, 25, 26
Please respond to:Jackie Paine at msjlpaine@aol.com
Name:
Telephone#:
1st choice of date:
2nd choice of date:
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:34 AM | Permalink |
July 19, 2007
Rain Garden Volunteer Opportunity
Master Gardeners: This is a good opportunity to learn about plants for rain gardens and earn volunteer hour credits.
Elizabeth
katie.rehrauer@cityofchicago
Hi Elizabeth,
Sue Cubberly, Aaron Durnbaugh and I are hosting a rain garden plant distribution for participants from the City's workshop this summer.
Do you have any master gardeners that might be interested in some volunteer hours on the following dates?
Friday, July 27 from 1-4 p.m.
Organizing native/rain garden plants into individual garden orders
Saturday, July 28 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Distributing plants to workshop participants and talking about the plants a bit
Tuesday, July 31 from 4-7 p.m.
Distributing plants to workshop participants and talking about the plants a bit
Feel free to send along as you see fit--anyone can contact me directly if interested! I would say that the dates listed are in order of priority for volunteer assistance.
Thanks so much!
Katie Rehrauer
Chicago Department of Environment
Chicago Center for Green Technology
445 N. Sacramento Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: 312.746.9609
Fax: 312.746.9192
katie.rehrauer@cityofchicago
www.cityofchicago.org/Environme
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:17 AM | Permalink |
July 19, 2007
Master Gardener Conference Registration Reminder
Just a reminder! For Master Gardeners and guests attending only the awards banquet- not the full conference- they must use the correct form online.
There is a separate form for registering for the awards banquet- please advise your volunteers to use that form.
If they use the form for full conference registration- their banquet reservation WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED and they will not be registered.
For the State Master Gardener Conference registration: http://www.extension.uiuc.edu/mg/
Thanks for your help,
Monica
Monica David
Illinois Master Gardener Coordinator
1007 Plant Sciences Lab
1201 Dorner Drive
Urbana, IL. 61801
217-265-5256
Fax- 217-244-3469
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:11 AM | Permalink |
July 18, 2007
July 31 Monthly Meeting
We have a special treat for our July 31 Monthly Meeting, a trip to the zoo and a visit to the Edible Garden at the Farm in the Zoo.
We have a new partnership with Lincoln Park Zoo, and the much enlarged Edible Garden. Fellow Master Gardeners have been volunteering there all spring and summer. Come and see the results of their work.
Master Gardener Monthly Meeting
Date and time:Tuesday, July 31, 2007
6:30 p.m. - Pot luck dinner
Where: Farm House at the Farm-in-the-Zoo
Tour of the Garden
Program- Extending the Season- Jeanne Pinsof, Edible Garden manager
Opportunities at the Zoo- Steven Soloman, LP Zoo, Education Department
Did you know that the Edible Garden will be open through December? Learn some of these season extending techniques for you own vegetable garden.
Of course, Master Gardeners are still active with the Flower Gardens at LPZoo. Why not come out early to visit the zoo and admire the gardens? How about a walk through the newly restored Lilly Pool area? Zoo buildings close at 5:00 p.m. and the grounds at 6:00 p.m. Our pot luck dinner is at 6:30 p.m.
RSVP FOR FREE PARKING- The zoo will provide free parking for Master Gardeners, but we need to know how many, so please RSVP to Elizabeth ebruhns@uiuc.edu to reserve parking.
DIRECTIONS FOR PARKING -Enter the zoo parking lot at Fullerton and Cannon. Drive past the main entrance to the area near that posted for buses. There is a sidewalk there that runs through Lincoln Park to the Farm-in-the-Zoo. It is on the south edge of the zoo fence. You will receive a "chaser card" for exit at the meeting.
See you at the zoo.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
3807 West 111th Street
Chicago, IL 60655
773-233-0476 -Fax 773-233-0910
url http://cook.extension.uiuc.edu
MASTER GARDENER BLOG-
http://web.extension.uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 5:31 PM | Permalink |
July 15, 2007
Pots from Cow Poo
Have you heard about the cow pots that are made from composted cow manure. I was watching the Larry King Show yesterday and they had a gentleman on who hosts a Discovery Channel show called "Dirty Jobs". One of the jobs featured on the show was the story about the two brothers who are dairy farmers in Connecticut and came up with the idea of making the biodegradable pots to start seedlings in from their cow poo.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:36 PM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Have Plant Problems Diagnosed at Plant Clinic
Need to have a plant problem diagnosed? The University of Illinois Plant Clinic at Urbana is now open for the 32nd year to diagnose field crop and horticultural plant problems.
The Plant Clinic, open through September 15, specializes in identifying disease problems, nematodes, insects and insect injury, and weeds. Chemical residue testing is not available.
The lab can culture plant parts to test for fungal and bacterial pathogens. Depending upon the organism, this may take anywhere from 24 hours to 10 days. The Plant Clinic offers nematode assays on roots and soil.
Insect and weed identification is a fairly quick process so the turnaround time is normally short. Herbicide injury diagnoses are based on samples, symptoms, and the facts presented. The Plant Clinic is not equipped to assay soil or plants for chemical residues.
The Plant Clinic web site, plantclinic.cropsci.uiuc.edu, provides information on how to submit a sample, sample fees, sample forms (to accompany samples), clinic services, and links to other sites. Responses and how to manage the problem will be returned to clients by US mail and electronically. Most standard testing is $12.50 per sample. Specialty tests require more time and equipment, and thus the charge is higher. Payment must accompany the sample.
The clinic can also diagnose and monitor sudden oak death, soybean rust, legume viruses, Emerald ash borer, giant hogweed, and other plant pathogens and pests that might be exotic invasive concerns in Illinois.
The mailing address is Plant Clinic, 1401 West St. Mary's Road, Urbana, IL 61802. The phone number is 815-333-0519. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 Noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m..
For more information contact the University of Illinois Extension office at (773) 233-0476.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 4:48 PM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
National Children and Youth Garden Symposium
Sidetracked by the distractions and demands of the digital age, American children are spending less time outdoors, leading to what Richard Louv, author of Last Child In The Woods, has dubbed "nature-deficit disorder." Several recent studies have linked this diminishing exposure to the natural world during youth to everything from health issues to learning problems, which has helped to fuel a growing national movement to bridge this disconnect.
One key resource for finding solutions is the American Horticultural Society's National Children & Youth Garden Symposium (NCYGS). Recognizing the need to expose young people to nature-and plants specifically-the American Horticultural Society (AHS) started this groundbreaking educational program 15 years ago. Since then, hundreds of civic leaders, children's advocates, teachers, parents, gardeners, and others have gathered once a year to share ideas and success stories as well as gain inspiration for new ways to engage youth in gardening.
"When the first symposium took place in 1993, there was not an organized national effort in the children's gardening arena," explains Stephanie Jutila, the AHS's education programs manager. "The symposium provides a forum for everyone to get together to share ideas and experiences for tailoring gardening and plant-based educational programs to youth in a meaningful way."
Maureen Heffernan, the AHS's education coordinator at the time, provided the original vision to develop the inaugural symposium. "The idea was to inspire educators and other adults to create children's gardens and programs about plants, gardening, and nature," says Heffernan. "We also wanted these gardens and programs to plant the seed in children to become environmental stewards when they grew up. From all of the feedback I've received over the years, the symposium continues to accomplish these goals and has significantly raised awareness about the many benefits of children's gardening programs."
"There has been a dramatic increase in gardening programs for children at public garden sites," agrees Jane L. Taylor, founding curator of the Michigan 4-H Children's Garden and a member of the NCYGS advisory panel. "The symposium has helped to influence this current trend and without support from the American Horticultural Society, I'm sure this surge would not have happened."
Taylor was a keynote speaker at the very first symposium as well as several subsequent ones. Keynote speakers have also included ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin, author Sharon Lovejoy, landscape architect Robin Moore, author and futurist Richard Louv, and many other experts on the forefront of children's gardening efforts.
"By attending the NCYGS," Taylor says, "with the many workshop sessions, off-site garden visitations, the power of the keynote speakers, and networking with like-minded folks from all over the world, participants return to their own communities energized to make a change." One such example is the Camden City Garden Club in New Jersey, which found the inspiration to create the Camden Children's Garden after attending the inaugural symposium.
"We heard Jane Taylor speak about her children's garden in Michigan and we had an 'aha' moment," remembers Mike Devlin, executive director of the four-acre Camden Children's Garden. As the garden club embarked on their project to build a new children's garden, Taylor provided the group with valuable guidance and advice as the idea developed over the years. The garden opened in 1999, and today, in one of the poorest and most dangerous cities in the nation, it "provides a safe place for kids to come and get introduced to plants," says Devlin.
Allan Werthan of Evergreen, Colorado, had a similar experience when he attended the symposium for the first time in 2004. "I was astounded to learn that such a strong youth garden movement existed and the influence on me was profound," Werthan says. "I was amazed by the diversity of developing programs and the resources available to me." Werthan has since launched Global Children's Gardens, a nonprofit organization that works to create a network of community-based, youth directed greenhouses and gardening programs.
Indeed, over the years, symposium attendees have discovered countless ways to use plants and gardening to enhance teaching methods, encourage community involvement, and get children and youth excited about the outdoors. Building on that spirit of endless possibilities, this year's 15th annual symposium's theme, "Widening the Circle," references the idea of tapping into a diverse group of practitioners from related fields to create fresh approaches and expanded audiences for children's and youth gardening programs.
As more and more individuals and organizations become aware of the myriad benefits of getting young people interested in nature, challenges such as securing funding, recruiting committed volunteers, and convincing skeptical administrations will become easier to overcome. And the children themselves will have a greener future because as Taylor concludes, "Gardens grow kids!"
Sidebar:
The 2007 AHS National Children & Youth Garden Symposium will be held July 19-21 in Chaska, Minnesota, hosted by the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Public Policy Programs. Keynote speakers will be Eric Jolly, president of the Science Museum of Minnesota; Sherry Norfolk, professional storyteller and educator; and Albe Zakes, eco-revolutionary entrepreneur.
In addition to the keynote presentations, the Symposium will include more than 30 educational sessions on topics ranging from innovative ideas for non-traditional classrooms and interdisciplinary studies to new strategies for making a difference beyond the confines of the classroom. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore various area gardens and educational facilities such as the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park, Gale Woods Farm, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Marion Andrus Learning Center.
During the Symposium, the 2007 "Growing Good Kids-Excellence in Children's Literature Awards" will also be unveiled. Presented jointly by the National Junior Master Gardener Program and the American Horticultural Society, these awards honor engaging and inspiring works of plant-, garden-, and ecology-themed children's literature.
Next year's symposium will be held July 24 to 26, 2008 in the Greater Philadelphia Area, hosted by Camden Children's Garden, Longwood Gardens, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and Winterthur Museum & Country Estate.
For more information, visit www.ahs.org or call 703-768-5700.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:39 PM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Willene Buffett: Thank You!
Dear Master Gardeners,
Thank you very much for your participation in the Taste of Chicago's Goin' Green area. I received positive feedback all throughout the Taste about the great information that was being shared, and the positive atmosphere all around our tent and displays. I especially appreciate your willingness to learn about our other Extension programs and to engage people in our mission.
As we continue to grow, and to reach more people in Cook County, I am pleased to know you are out in our communities representing Extension.
Thank you.
Willene Buffett
Cook County Director
Posted by Ron Wolford at 10:48 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Volunteer at Garfield Park
I hope everyone is having a great summer and you are staying cool this week. Here at Garfield Park Conservatory we have a very special event this month, as well as some regular volunteer opportunities now and coming up this fall. If you are interested in any of the opportunities please email me at hpicciuca@garfieldpark.org with your interest and availability.
Volunteers are needed:
Special Family Event: Meet the Bees!
Saturday July 28th, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., free
Come on out to the Garfield Park Conservatory's Demonstration Garden for a day of bee fun! Our summer honey is coming off the hives and it's time to celebrate.Our volunteer bee keepers will be posted at education stations throughout the garden, ready to answer your questions about our hard-working insect friends. Kid and family activities include designing your own bee goggles, crafting a nectar cup, learning a groovy bee hive dance, and exploring the growing ingredients of a special flower scavenger hunt. Plus you will be able to purchase honey made right here by our Conservatory bees, listen to live music, and last but not least – get a good taste of honey! Please, come join in the buzz.
We will need volunteers to help with facilitating activities, giving out information, honey tasting, setting up and tearing down. Mostly to help celebrate our first honey harvest this year. There will be two volunteer shifts:
Morning Shift: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Afternoon Shift 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Gardeners at Work
Thursday nights 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. (thru August 31st)
Saturday mornings 10:00 am-12:30 p.m. (thru October 27th)
Volunteers are needed to work in garden, talk with public, give out resources and advice about weekly gardening topics to visitors during this programming time. Check out the website for weekly topics. If interested please email me with the day and time you would like to come and the day you would be able to start.
http://www.garfield-conservator
Horticulture Class Assistant for Koch Unni's Columbia College
September 6th thru December 14th 2007
Thursdays 3:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. in the Classroom
Koch is looking for a dedicated volunteer to help facilitate his horticulture class this fall. He teaches to Columbia College students a beginning horticulture class every fall and spring session here at Garfield Park Conservatory. It is a great opportunity for someone who wants to learn more about horticulture in a classroom setting, Koch has wealth of knowledge about growing techniques and horticulture, and he is a foreman here at the Garfield Park Conservatory. The assistant helps in setting up the room, handing out materials, and general classroom support. He will need one volunteer to commit to the entire duration of the class. This is a great opportunity for a Master Gardener intern that needs a regular volunteer assignment to get all their hours in. If you are interest please contact me with the best way to get in contact with you and I will put you in contact.
Save the Date GPCA Volunteers
***County Fair September 15th***
Thanks for your time and all your continued support!
Harmony Picciuca
Garden and Volunteer Programs Coordinator
Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance
300 N. Central Park Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60624
773.638.1766 x 24
Posted by Ron Wolford at 4:10 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Volunteer at the Sheffield Garden Walk
We need 2-4 volunteers to staff the Ask a Master Gardener desk at the Sheffield Garden Walk, July 21 and 22, from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. both days, that is 1 or 2 volunteers
each day.
Master Gardeners should bring their Master Gardener manuals. The volunteers will receive free drink and food coupons as well as have the opportunity to listen to a lot of great music. It is the best volunteer opportunity of the summer.
Please contact either:
Laury Lewis
773-327-8111 or e-mail at LBL1948@YAHOO.COM
Crissy Lucado
773-327-8486 or e-mail at clucado31@hotmail.com
Posted by Ron Wolford at 4:00 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Volunteer at the Lincoln Square Garden Walk
Boy could we use some help again! It's MG Nancy Benjamin ('07) of the Lincoln Square Garden Walk.
On Saturday, August, 4th, from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (rain or shine!) we will once again be holding the Lincoln Square Garden Walk and Green Fair. Some of you were gracious enough to help us with this wonderful event last time. It features more than 20 gardens, more than 10 environmental groups and attracts more than 300 people to our charming, thriving neighborhood. This year the folks publicizing our event include NBC, ABC and Metromix. Volunteer helpers are needed to hang out beneath the boughs of the leafy trees of Giddings Plaza (with the fascinating environmental groups) and:
1) Collect donations from garden walk participants ($5 that benefits the Greening of Ravenswood) and give them programs and maps
2) Demonstrate composting with a compost bin
3) Answer gardening questions as a Master Gardener
This means ideally speaking we could use 3 people in 3 shifts throughout the day: 10 a.m-12:30 p.m., 12:30 p.m.-3 p.m, 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m.
Please let me know if you can help! We have a great party afterward (at 5:30 p.m.) in my garden (on Leland) and lots of fun all day! Please let me know by July 15th, if you can.
Thank you, thank you!
The ever grateful Nancy Benjamin
Lincoln Square Garden Walk and Green Fair
PO Box 180050
Chicago, IL 60618
312-286-0956
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:48 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Master Food Preserver Training
The University of Illinois Extension is hosting the Master Food Preserver Training. There will be a fee to cover the cost of materials. That fee has yet to be determined. Participants must complete a minimum of 30 volunteer hours to become certified. Details below:
Where: Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences – 3807 West 111th Street
When: Monday, August 13 – Friday, August 17, 2007
Time: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Call or email Nancy Kreith for an application.
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th St.
Chicago, IL. 60655
p 773.233.0476
f773.233.0910
c 708.567.6101
Please email me at nkreith@gmail.com
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:41 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Earth Machine Compost Bin Sale
The Earth Machine Compost Bin Sale is Here! For the past two years the City of Chicago has collaborated with the University of Illinois Extension and Garfield Park Conservatory to offer subsidized compost bins to Chicago residents. The offer has returned. The City will now host the compost bin sale ($30.00 each)at the Chicago Center for Green Technology. Rain barrels will also be available for $40.00. If you are interested please read the details below.
What: Chicago - Compost Bin Sale
When: Saturday -July 14, 2007
Time: 10 a.m. - 12 noon
Where: Chicago Center for Green Technology - 445 North Sacrament Blvd.
Cost: $30 PER COMPOST BIN
Things to remember:
Please bring proof of Chicago residency, such as, a State ID. or Driver's License.
Check or Money Order ONLY - Made out to "City of Chicago"
Limit ONE bin per household
For more information visit:
www.cityofchicago.org/Environment
Thank you for your interest. Keep on Composting!
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th St.
Chicago, IL. 60655
p 773.233.0476
f773.233.0910
c 708.567.6101
Please email me at nkreith@gmail.com
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:40 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Attend the Mid-America Bonsai Exhibition
The Midwest Bonsai Society invites you to the30th annual Mid-America Bonsai Exhibition
August 17, 18, 19, 2007
Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Road.
Glencoe, Illinoiis
Come and See; Flowering trees, non-flowering trees, Suiseke.
Attend: Adult or children's' classes, demonstrations.
Purchase: Trees, tools, pots, stand and other bonsai materials.
There will be raffles during the show.
There will be a banquet on Saturday night
For more information go to www.midwestbonsai.org
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:37 AM | Permalink |
July 11, 2007
Volunteer for Family Programs at Garfield Park
Are you artistic or would you like to be? Do you like working with kids? Would you like to learn more about plants or show off your plant knowledge?
Then become a volunteer for Family Programs at the Conservatory! The Garfield Park Conservatory is looking for volunteers to help out on Saturdays and Sundays from 12-3:30 p.m. Volunteers would help facilitate our Niki in the Garden related family programs. This includes our special Family Make-and-Take session where kids get the chance to make a take home project. You'll learn about the Niki sculptures and have a lot of fun!
If this is your first time volunteering, we'd like you to commit to 2-4 p.m. Saturdays or Sundays in a row, as this will help get your trained. If you've volunteered with us before, it is your choice how much you would like to volunteer. For example, you can pick one day a month, you can volunteer every Saturday for a month, or just do one day once in awhile. But let us warn you, it can get addicting working here!
If you are interested, or know somebody that may be interested, please respond to myself at kkatzmann@garfieldpark.org. I look forward to working with you soon.
Thank you!
Kelly Katzmann
Family Programs Facilitator
Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance
300 N. Central Park Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624-1945
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:34 AM | Permalink |
