Master Gardeners earn certifications

Courtesy photo Receiving various degrees of Master Gardener certification in a recent ceremony at the Putnam County Fairgrounds are (front, from left) Judith Cloe, Vickie Whicker, Linda Clute, Brenda Freeman and Jamie Jones, along with (back, from left) Mary Jane Toney, Kristi Nelson, John Garner, Howard Shrader, Randy Bee and Damaris Zehner.

Purdue University Master Gardener volunteers contribute significantly to the lives of Indiana residents and local communities each year.

In 2016, the Putnam County Master Gardeners volunteered more than 1,400 hours locally by hosting horticulture related events, working at the Putnam County Fair and working with local schools to help a high school senior receive a scholarship from the organization.

During the December Putnam County Master Gardener Association meeting, several local residents received a new Master Gardener certification. To earn Purdue Master Gardener certification, volunteers must complete horticultural training conducted by Purdue Extension county offices and engage in volunteer service that has been approved by Master Gardener county coordinators and performed in Indiana communities.

Those receiving their Advanced Master Gardener certification -- with 60 cumulative volunteer hours and 45 cumulative education hours -- include: Dave Burgess, Denise Burgess, David Carter, Linda Clute, Brenda Freeman, John Garner, Karen Hunter, Jamie Jones, Stacy Lowe and Damaris Zehner.

Those receiving their Advanced Bronze Master Gardener certification -- with 200 cumulative volunteer hours an 60 cumulative education hours -- include: Randy Bee, Kristi Nelson, Howard Shrader, Mary Jane Toney and Vickie Whicker.

Receiving her Advanced Silver Master Gardener certification with 500 cumulative volunteer hours and 75 cumulative education hours was Judith Cloe.

Anyone who would like to know more about the Purdue Master Gardener program may contact the Putnam County Extension Office at 653-8411.