I received my 15 year Master Gardener pin last year. I have been a student of horticulture for over twenty years taking courses from a local college, Longwood Gardens Certificate Courses, graduate courses from Florida U. and am learning every day. To give back to the community isn't hard because there are so many ways to do your volunteer hours. I've taught in the local prisons, girl and boy scouts and did gardening courses at the local university. If I'm asked a question I have no knowledge of I say so and refer them to the home office where we at least have the info on file. I've made some great friends and met some stinkers. That's life. When I was asked to collect specimens of butterflies for display I refused because I will not kill anything. When I'm asked what kind of chemical to use to kill an insect I tell them this story. I was in a class room with 33 third graders. I told them tonight we will have a party. I'm jealous of Wilma, my friend with me, because she has a nicer garden. So I'm going to poison the punch. They could drink it because I liked them but it would take care of Wilma for me. I had 15 hands go up to tell me the punch would hurt them all. I debated them for a few minutes and they were very thoughtful when I told them using chemicals to kill one insect or problem usually means death to many others. EVEN third graders knew that so when someone tell me they have to use chemicals I refer them to the home office. If your a Master Gardener you aren't obligated to go against your beliefs.
