Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, the Christian County Master Gardener Association is recognizing its longtime members — while planning for its annual Garden Expo.
During a March meeting, Association President Mattea Wyatt presented seven Master Garnders with 20-year service award pins: George Byars, Sarah Byars, Dawn Francis, Barbara Gossett, Lynda Lee, Connie McGahee and Jesse McGuire. Additional recognition was given to 5-year, 10-year and 15-year members, who will also receive a special anniversary pin.
Master Gardeners receive initial training by completing a 13-week course and passing an exam, and from there, members are required to log 40 hours of annual community service, while continuing education to maintain Master Gardener status.
Christian County Horticulture Agent Kelly Jackson, who oversees the association, said there are currently 70 Christian County Master Gardeners, with 58 members reporting community service last year. Several “lifetime members,” he said, aren’t required to report annual hours — but still bring other services to the community.
In the past year alone, the association — founded in 2005 — logged more than 3,000 service hours in the community.
While organizing workshops and spearheading community beautification projects, the association has inspired countless residents to cultivate their green thumbs and embrace sustainable gardening practices. Throughout the year, the association also hosts free community education events, such as garden tours and workshops as advertised and promoted on the Facebook page and Hello Garden newsletter.
Meanwhile, the association is hosting its highly-anticipated Garden and Outdoor Living Expo, scheduled for April 11 and 12 at the Christian County Extension office on Pembroke Road. It will feature a variety of informative workshops, expert-led demonstrations and interactive displays, and participants will learn about the latest gardening techniques, pest management and sustainable practices suitable for local climates.
Additionally, local vendors will showcase their products, providing attendees with the opportunity to purchase plants, gardening tools and more. Food trucks, a silent auction, bounce houses and a petting zoo will also be onsite.
It’s running from 4-8 PM that Friday, and from 9 AM until 3 PM that Saturday. Admission is free.
For more information, visit hoptowngardenexpo.com.
