The demonstration garden tours, coordinated by class mentors Holly Votaw and Maryellen Farley, have been successfully completed. Members of the Class of 2026 had the opportunity to meet our garden leads, ask questions, and gain valuable insights.
Our sincere thanks to our gracious garden leads—Liz Menis, Sheila O'Dea, Holly Votaw, Paco Candal, Mary Miller, Steve Matadobra, Barker Carter, Betsy Bond, and Rodney Holcomb, who generously shared their knowledge and experience with such an enthusiastic group of trainees. Many participants have already begun contributing their time and energy in the demonstration gardens.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this experience so meaningful and successful!
Beate Schittmann, Beth Kitteringham, Trish Bricker, Kathy Steepy, Darrell Renfroe, JoAnn Northrop, Janice Lane, Tish Whiting, Connie Newman, Anne Lippencott, and Lee Hilliard braved the cold to join us.
Steve Matadobra and Barker Carter explained the concept of a rain garden and shared future plans.
Rodney Holcomb led us through the various ranger station gardens, emphasizing the goal of keeping the beds looking natural to coincide with the surrounding forest.
Betsy Bond shared the history of the Allison Deavor House and the relocation of the EMG garden beds due to the problems of black walnut trees.