Joe certified as a Master Gardener in 1996, over 20 years ago. In that time, he has given his time, energy, and expertise to HCMGA and to the Extension Office. He spent many hours and traveled many miles responding to requests for site visits all over Hays County. He also helped man the phones in the office, answering gardening questions for the community. Joe was part of the group that designed the first demonstration garden at the extension in San Marcos. He designed and cared for the pond and garden areas for years. The pond was rather unique for that period as all the water came from the air conditioner condensation. Joe was also the “go to guy” for maintaining the rainwater harvesting system. As part of a joint research project, Joe helped plant and care for numerous varieties of fig trees at the extension office. When the National Master Gardener Conference was held in San Antonio in 1998, Joe was one of several Hays County Master Gardeners who helped set up venues and man tables.
These days Joe does most of his gardening at home! He grows many vegetables, but peppers are his specialty.