@Bubbles were you at the state conference in Belton last weekend?
Felder Rushing was one of the speakers.
@drdawg I think that he started the MG program in your state.
I originally got into MG program for selfish reasons. Mainly to learn aspects of horticulture that I did not learn growing up. And after completing the MG certification, I continued for selfish reasons and have completed the specialist programs for things that I wanted to do in my own yard (plant propagation, greenhouse management, irrigation efficiency, landscape design, composting, and home fruit specialist programs). Through the last 7 years I have began and change my landscape three times, finally settling on Edible Landscaping. That is how I met Dave and Trish at one of their talks on the subject. Even though I live on 1/2 acre I am also incorporating some of the Permaculture ideas.
Master Gardeners is as I have been trained a volunteer organization to assist the Ag Extension Service in our communities. Like all other "groups" I have been involved with over the years, whether it is a Baptist Church, Lions Club, School Board and others, you get out of it what you put into it. Yes, there are those who want to control everything, there are those who want to be involved but do nothing and a lot of good folks in-between. It doesn't work for everyone, but the ones I have seen and the MGs I know from other states, I have to say that I am proud to be in the program.
Sorry it doesn't fit for some of you and sorry some of you have had bad experiences.
Oh, and much to my wife's dismay I now have joined the local Herb Society mainly to gain more knowledge in growing herbs which a key to my edible landscaping.
@drdawg you need to come see us in Texas!!
Oh and those of you close around, Walker Co MG is putting on an all day event Oct 16. Pollinators - a Gardening Symposium. Felder Rushing will be our keynote speaker, we will also have Henry Flowers (herbs), Chris Moore (state beekeepers) and Dotty Woodson (water conservation). And on the 17th we will have our annual Butterly Festival and do a tag and release of Monarch butterflies. (We are a Monarch whaystation) Save the Date!!
