Master Gardeners recognized with new certifications

Putnam County Master Gardeners who recently received new certifications in 2023 include (front, from left) John Craney, Vickie Whicker, Susie McMains, Terri Maher, Becky Samsel, (back) Janice White, Yvonne Clifford, John Mace, (not pictured) Judi Bundza and Linda Hunter.

Courtesy photo

During the Putnam County Master Gardener Association’s December meeting, several local residents received a new Master Gardener certification.

During the meeting, John Mace and Susie McMains received their Master Gardener certification (40 cumulative volunteer hours and 40 cumulative education hours).

Those receiving their Advanced Extension Master Gardener certification (65 cumulative volunteer hours and 50 cumulative education hours) included Linda Hunter, Terri Maher and Janice White.

Those receiving their Advanced Extension Master Gardener Bronze certification (200 cumulative volunteer hours and 60 cumulative education hours) included Judi Bundza, Yvonne Clifford, John Craney and Becky Samsel.

Meanwhile, Vickie Whicker was presented her Advanced Extension Master Gardener Gold 1,000 certification. To earn this certification, Whicker had to accumulate 1,000 volunteer hours and 100 education hours.

In 2023, Purdue Extension Master Gardeners volunteered more than 1,800 hours in Putnam County by hosting horticulture-related events, working at the Putnam County Fair and raising funds for future horticulture and agricultural scholarships.

To earn Purdue Master Gardener certifications, 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 would like to know more about the Purdue Extension Master Gardener program may contact the Putnam County Extension office at 653-8411.