06/23/2026
Our very own Judy shares what being an OSU Master Gardener means to her.
For Judy, being an Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener volunteer has been a way to keep learning, keep serving and keep growing — even after earning a PhD in Botany and Plant Pathology and volunteering for 25 years in two different states.
After moving from Mississippi to Bend, Judy retook the Master Gardener training and discovered how much there was to learn about gardening in Central Oregon’s dry climate. She especially values the program’s connection to the community through plant clinics, demonstration gardens and public education.
“It was and still is a great learning experience as you serve the community and help them with their questions, and in so doing learn yourself,” she said.
Judy has volunteered in the Hollinshead and Alpenglow gardens, written educational articles for fellow volunteers and is now helping develop a public plant database for Deschutes County gardens and landscapes.
“I like to think I have helped beautify the community I live in,” she said.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the OSU Extension Master Gardener Program. We’re collecting and sharing stories from volunteers across Oregon. If you are a Master Gardener volunteer — or ever have been — we would love to hear from you. Share your story with us!
beav.es/mgstory
