2009 Annual Report

Master Gardeners continue to reach greater audiences in Texas

The Master Gardener program trained 1,208 individuals increasing the number of volunteers to 6,393 Master Gardeners throughout the state. They have provided 520,144 hours of volunteer service which equates to 260 full time employees. This represents a $10 million dollar impact on the state of Texas.

Master Gardeners answered 32,557 phone calls from citizens of their local communities. They have increased the number of youth gardens they directly support to 273 gardens, a 23 percent increase over 2008. They have maintained 212 demonstration gardens and they continue to reach internet audiences with 50 county websites.

One of the main goals of the Master Gardener program is to train individuals to teach citizens in their local and surrounding communities about horticultural topics. The Master Gardeners gave 2,614 presentations which have reached 153,847 individuals. The total of number of people receiving researched based information has continuously grown.

Master Gardeners are highly trained, passionate gardeners who serve their county and state to their fullest. It is because of their work and dedication that Texas AgriLife Extension can continue to reach greater audiences and expand their capabilities.