December 2013

“Reaching Out Report” the Greene County Extension Newsletter 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Email: greeneco@missouri.edu * Tel: (417) 881-8909

December 2013 * Vol. 5, Issue 12

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Upcoming events … page 2 Agriculture event … page 3 Master Naturalists … page 4 Pam Duitsman… page 5 Nutrition … pages 6 David Burton … pages 7 Vehicle Donations …

Page 8 Council Committees …

Page 9 4-H Report … page 10 Patrick Byers … pages 11-12 Master Gardeners … pages 13 Updated Friends list … page 14-15 Sponsors & Partners page 16

Extension Program of the Year Online Event Calendar The most up-to-date list of reported upcoming MU Extension programs in Greene County is available online at extension.missouri.edu/greene

Calendar is visible on right side of page.

David Burton, a University of Missouri Extension civic communication specialist and county program director in Greene County, was presented the “Outstanding Program of Year” award from the University of Missouri Extension Association at the employee annual meeting in Columbia during October. The award recognized the overall success (and several Extension firsts) of the “Friends of Greene County Extension Campaign” including campaign publications, development trainings, special events and the vehicle donation program.

University of Missouri Extension provides equal opportunity to all participants in extension programs and activities, and for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Selected Upcoming Extension Events in Greene County Business Development Classes

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy

Regular business classes are held at the Small Business Development and Technology Center, 405 North Jefferson Ave., Springfield. Assorted dates and topics. Register by calling 417-836-5685 or check online www.ws.missouristate.edu/sbdc.

This program is designed to help older adults Improve strength, flexibility and balance which will reduce falls and lead to a healthier, more active lifestyle. These exercises are low-impact/low eight. All needed equipment is provided during the class. Pre-registration by Jan. 29 is required and class size is limited.

East meeting room of Botanical Center, taught by Greene County Extension 881-8909 Age: Adults 50 and up Date: Every Mon.: Feb. 3 - April 14 Time: 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Fee: $40 per person

Garden Inspired Writing Retreat Experience nature and be creatively inspired by the beauty of the gardens. Let David Burton, MU Extension specialist, journalist, and published author, guide your journey into the natural world with creative writing exercises in the gardens. This retreat is for anyone who wants to be more creative whether you like journal writing, poetry, fiction, non-fiction or news writing. Bring your own writing tools. Meet in the Botanical Center Atrium.

Sessions available in 2013: Dec. 5; and sessions in 2014: Feb. 6, March 6, April 3 and May 1 Time: 9 a.m. to noon Fee: $20 per person, per session Registration available online. Age: All ages

Master Gardener Training

February 18 – April, 2014 (six weeks) Evenings, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6-9 pm For more information about becoming a member of the Master Gardener organization, or to be added to the list for the next training, email us with your first and last name, email, and phone number at mg.greenecounty@gmail.com with “Training” in the subject heading.

You will be notified of orientation dates once they are announced in late January. Attendance to Low Cost, No Cost Energy Savers orientation is mandatory in order to register for When: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. training.

Where: OACAC Greene County Neighborhood Center, 560 N You don’t have to Program Calendar Online Stewart Ave, Springfield be an expert gardener Description: Low Cost, No Cost The most up-to-date list of reported to become a member.

Energy Savers helps participants upcoming MU Extension programs in Participants receive 30 identify home weatherization isGreene County is available online at hours of classroom sues and wasteful home energy http://extension.missouri.edu/greene training, and as an inconsumption, while offering inexCalendar visible on right side of page. tern, pledge to contribpensive solutions that they can ute 30 hours of volunpursue immediately. Emphasis is teer service during the placed on determining the aspects that the can have first year. When achieved, you have earned the the greatest impact for the least investment and title of Certified Master Gardener and 20 hours effort. This is a Life Skills program offering for annually are required to maintain member status.

OACAC clients. In this session, MU Extension 2014 MG Training – Greene County is Febhandouts, presentation and demonstrations are ruary 18 – April, 2014 (six weeks), evenings, combined with two video segments from the film Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6-9 pm "Kilowatt Ours" to teach weatherization and home Odd Numbered Years – 2015 MG Training energy conservation.

– Greene County. February – April Registration: Limited to OACAC clients.

Afternoons, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1-4 pm Facilitator: Jeff Barber, 417/881-8909

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Agriculture

Chain Saw Safety Training for City Utilities Employees On Dec. 3 and 5, a total of 34 employees with Springfield City Utilities’ Fulbright and Blackman water treatment plants received training on chain saw safety and tree pruning tips. The two sessions were taught by Bob Schultheis, MU Extension natural resource engineering specialist based in Marshfield.

The training was requested by the City Utilities Human Resources Department, with the goal to keep workers safe both on and off the job, and thus minimize worker compensation insurance claims and lost work days.

The workers learned about where and how most chain saw injuries occur; reaction times; choosing and using appropriate safety gear; noise levels and hearing loss preven- Proper tree felling procedures is one of the points discussed with workers at Blackman Water Treatment Plant in southeast Springfield. tion; preparing, starting, and using a chain saw; causes and prevention of saw kickback, tree felling and limbing procedures, and pruning techniques for standing trees.

Written evaluations showed knowledge levels increased by 20 percent from the one-hour sessions, and 93 percent of participants indicated they would recommend this training to others. Thirteen people cited specific things they will do differently as of result of the safety training they received.

Schultheis demonstrates the correct grip and starting procedure for gasoline-powered chain saws for workers at the Fulbright Water Treatment Plant in north Springfield.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

The reaction times of workers at the Fulbright Water Treatment Plant are tested. In the typical 0.3-second reaction time, 20 feet of chain saw teeth would pass around the bar with the saw at full speed. Wearing ballistic nylon chaps is a good way to avoid tearing injuries from saw cuts.

Page 3

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Business

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Master Naturalists

Workshop in Springfield Helped Small Businesses Learn How Affordable Care Act Impacts Them Greene County Extension hosted the “The Affordable Care Act for Your Business” on Dec. 16 and 10 business owners attended the workshop.

Relevant workshop topics included small business tax credits, FTE calculation, and information on Missouri health insurance marketplace including upcoming deadlines for enrollment.

Presenters for the program are shown in the picture below (left to right): Chrystal Irons, a business development specialist with University of Missouri Extension; Suzanne Stearman, branch manager, Springfield office of the U.S. Small Business Administration; and Small Business Majority’s Health Coverage Guide, Mary Moore.

Organizations and businesses can host a similar MU Extension program for information about the ACA by contacting the local office for arrangements.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

The Missouri Master Naturalist Program results from a partnership created in 2004 between the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and MU Extension (MUE). These two organizations are the sponsors of the program at the state level. The Missouri Master Naturalist Program is recognized as a “named and branded” educational program within MU Extension. The MU School of Natural Resources is the academic home for the Program.

Learn more www.springfieldmasternaturalist.com.

Master Naturalists Class of 2013 Has 30 Graduates Thirty Master Naturalists in training graduated Oct. 29, swelling our Plateau Chapter membership to nearly 100. This Class of 2013 has a full year to complete certification to become Master Naturalists.

These new graduates have a number of capstone projects to pick from with a goal of completing the project in the next 12 months.

Below is a picture of the new class during one of the training sessions.

Page 4

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Nutrition Specialist Chronic Disease Self-Management  Chronic Disease Self-Management classes wrapped up prior to the winter. In 2013, Pam has taught and facilitated classes that have reached 456 participants. The classes build quality of life, success at achieving health goals, and confidence for the participants. The workshop meets once each week for 2.5 hours, and helps participants to maintain “quality of life” when faced with chronic medical conditions.  Subjects covered include: techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance; appropriate use of medications; communicating effectively with health professionals; nutrition; and how to evaluate new treatments.

Stay Strong Stay Healthy 11-week course – During 2013, one-hundred ninety one (191) participated in a class at the Botanical Center. This strength training class focuses on improving strength, flexibility and balance for middle-aged to senior adults. The class has been shown to promote a healthier, more active lifestyle, and increase bone density, reduce falls, improve arthritis symptoms, and increase flexibility in middle-aged and older adults.

Economic Development through Local Food  During 2013, Pam has conducted workshops and given presentations on Food System related issues that have reached six-hundred ninety six (696) Greene County residents  Pam is chairing a committee to support and bring training to producers, systems, retailers, and others involved with food-system issues. In December, grant money and sponsorships have been obtained to fund a workshop that will be held at the Botanical Center in the spring of 2014.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Health Insurance Education Initiative  One hundred twenty four (124) individuals have attended this workshop this fall.

Several more are scheduled for January.  The education that Pam is Duitsman providing helps county residents to make informed health insurance decisions. The training increases knowledge and skills about health insurance, improved healthliteracy, and assists participants in complying with the new law (Affordable Care Act).  A few details of what participants gain from the program:  Awareness – who is eligible for what, how to obtain insurance, etc.  General health insurance literacy information  Unbiased pre-enrollment education for informed health insurance decisionmaking  Education on how to use the plan purchased  Connect Missourians with resources  Pam is working with the SW MO partnership to provide coordinated programing to reach audiences in Greene and surrounding counties.

Other Programming/grant work in December:  MU Extension Program Integration Health Systems core team work to provide Mental Health programming to county constituents.  Training on developing Food Policy Councils  Training to improve community food security  Healthy Lifestyle Initiative, Christian County  MU Extension team to develop on-line courses for senior citizens  AFRI grant work: meetings, including a weeklong meeting in South Dakota to develop curriculum and toolkits for rural communities to increase Food Security.  Training on Community Coaching  One-on-one community contacts and communication in December: Telephone; e-mail; office visits for consultation and advisement: 12

Page 5

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Family Nutrition Education Program Becky Roark December numbers:  128 K and 1st grade students at McGregor Elementary (Springfield)  134 total 3rd and 4th grade students at Fair Grove Elementary  16 clients at Republic WIC  70 families at Central Assembly Food Pantry  100 families at Well of Life Food Pantry

Roark

Hull

Wood

Nevatt

Sherri Hull 





Victory Mission Family Ministries Food Pantry – Display & Discussion about “Food Safety”; 125 Participants Republic WIC Clinic, lessons on “Plan, Shop, Save” 32 clients Completed series of lessons at Westport Elementary K-5th grade – 401 students



Ritter Springs Head Start: Let’s Read About Healthy Eating, 120 children

Jenni Nevatt

Regional Success

I was able to finish up my series of lessons with the preschoolers at Springfield’s Early Childhood center where I taught about 122 students. Unfortunately, this month’s Eating Smart class at Price Cutter was canceled due to inclement weather.

Nutrition educators in southwest Missouri had the most contacts of any MU Extension region in the state for Oct. 1 2012 – Sept. 30 , 2013. A total of 47,266 contacts. The entire regional team of nutrition educators is shown above.

Marty Wood    





Willard WIC: Eating Smart, Being Active—22 adults Willard Food Pantry: Get Moving Display 44 families Pregnancy Care Center: Eating Smart, Being Active, 18 Hand Extended Food Pantry: Eating on A Budget Display, 26 families Crosslines Food Pantry: Whole Grains Display,1644 families Southwest Mo. Indian Center: Discretionary Calories Display, 26 families

Family Nutrition Education Program 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd. Suite F200 Chesterfield Village, Springfield, Mo. Tel: 417-886-2059 Call the office to inquire about nutrition education.

Fossett

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

DeFord

Edmondson

Williams Page 6

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Civic Communication Specialist and County Program Director

BY THE NUMBERS (for the month)  News Service Subscribers: 9,455 weekly  Requests for advisement: 12  Regular weekly news columns: 14  TV/Radio Interviews – 2  Total articles written this month – 37

FIRST PROCEEDS FROM DONATION OF USED VEHICLES TO GREENE COUNTY EXTENSION The first proceeds are COUNTY PROGRAM DIRECTOR DUTIES coming in from an effort  Financial oversight, travel authorizations. rolled out in the Spring of  Park Board and County Commission meetings.

2013 to encourage the do- David Burton  Friends of Greene County Extension. nation of used vehicles Civic communication  Met with campus marketing/media directors burtond@missouri.edu and farm equipment to and council members to discuss possible 2014 Greene County Extension. projects and marketing improvements.

Initially, marketed as “Donate Your Hunk of  See expanded council committee list; this is an Junk,” the program was linked nationally to a effort to expand volunteer help and programs. company known as AutoWranglers. This partner Edited monthly “Reaching Out Report” ship allowed Extension to receive the benefits of  Updates to Greene County extension website donated vehicles without owning them. Follow Working on three grant applications ing a family tragedy that caused the owner of AutoWranglers to close his business it became PROGRAMS necessary to find another partnering business and  Working on details for annual soils and crops develop a locally sustainable program. conference as well as Annie’s Project.

The owner of AutoWranglers used his con Developing a new curriculum for a business tacts to get Greene County Extension set up with writing class that will be offered in 2014.

Copart. This national company just happens to have a location just east of Rogersville along SOCIAL MEDIA REACH (November 2013) Hwy. 60. The company specializes in online aucIndividuals reached during this month via the retions of vehicles, boats and farm equipment. gional extension social media tools: 182,662.

Auctions can be viewed at www.copart.com.

Donors can now contact Greene County ExBOOKS FOR SALE ONLINE tension directly with their name, address and The sale of four books: “History of Rural Schools phone number, along with make, model and year in Greene County,” “Driving Tour of One-Room of the vehicle, mileage and VIN. We can arrange Schools in the Ozarks,” “Using Social Media in for the pickup of the vehicle by CoPart or donors Disaster Recovery” and “Newswriting for the Noncan deliver the vehicle to the Rogersville location Journalist” continue to generate funds. Search by and save Extension the towing fee. Donors sign title on Amazon.com or CreateSpace.com. over the title but can take the sale price of the vehicle as a tax donation.

SELLING PUBLICATION CoPart charges Greene County ExCoPart DOWNLOADS NOW ON tension $145 per item to process the DISTRIBLY.COM 2889 E. U.S. Hwy 60 title and sale. All proceeds over that My most requested program publica- Rogersville, Mo. amount are given to the Greene tions are available for purchase as County Extension Council. During Phone: (417)753-3300 PDF download on Distribly.com. All Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. the month of December, we have proceeds benefit Greene County Ex- Monday through Friday. had three items sold. Pictures and tension. Look for Greene County Exinformation about those donations Sales are held every tension on www.distribly.com or link are on the following page.

Wednesday at noon. directly from our home page.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 7

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Civic Communication Specialist and County Program Director Vehicles donated this month to Greene County Extension as part of our “Donate Your Hunk of Junk” program. A big thanks to our donors. These donations were sold online at www.copart.com.

This farm disc (above and below) was donated by Gladys O’Dell of Fair Grove. It was given in honor of Keith Adams. The disc sold on Dec. 3 for $275.

This 2003 Lincoln (above and below) was donated

by Joe Jenkins of Springfield. This car has 174,000 miles on it and sold on Dec. 18.

This 1995 Ford Taurus was donated by Gene Wallace of Springfield. This car sold on Dec. 18.

If you have a vehicle or farm equipment to donate to Greene County Extension give the office a call or deliver the item to CoPart in Rogersville and let them know it is a donation for Greene County Extension.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 8

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Extension Council Committees for 2013-2014 Public Invited to Serve on County Extension Council Committees The Greene County Extension Council is opening its committees up to members of the public and inviting county residents to volunteer for serve on these committees. Council committees can organize their own meeting times and places, select their own committee chairs, appoint non-council members and give updates at council meetings.

Those wanting to serve should telephone or email the Greene County Extension office with their contact information and the committees on which they wish to serve. Email can be sent to greeneco@missouri.edu.

ELECTION: Work on logistics of council election. Recruit potential candidates. Make sure the ballot is done and legal notice printed.

David Burton

Nancy Williams

Matt Simpson

BUDGET & AUDITS: Review past budgets and prepare budget for new year. Members should keep alerted to fiscal matters of the council. Conduct council audit and review 4-H and Master Gardener audits.

Carl Allison Harold Bengsch Dustin DeVore Dewayne Long

Johnny Davis George Deatz

PERSONNEL: Assist in the review of the policies and working rules for Greene County Extension, conduct a yearly review of council staff, hire new council staff and have input on hiring of new specialists.

David Burton Parish Witt Lisa Bakerink

Dustin DeVore

4-H ACTION (New in 2013): This committee is works closely with 4-H volunteers in the county to work out 4-H concerns related to fees, mileage for specialists, support for the program and future funding.

David Burton Carl Allison

Dewayne Long Barb Ernst Mary Sue Joplin George Deatz

MEDIA & MARKETING (New in 2014): This committee works with the communication specialist in the office to evaluate and improve local media and marketing efforts. Great area for an intern. There is potential here for volunteer labor on media releases, the Reaching Out Report and other documents.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

ACTION COMMITTEE (New in 2012): Assist in coordinating and implementing action steps with the Commission and others to improve county funding (including passage of districting option). This committee also considers various fundraising or efforts that would create support for Extension in Greene County and works to implement the existing council business plan.

David Burton Carl Allison Jan Wooten Harold Bender Crystal Quade George Deatz Dewayne Long Susie Joplin Lisa Bakerink AGRICULTURE (New in 2013): In the absence of an agronomy specialist in the county, this committee will make decisions regarding agriculture programs in the county and funding for farm visits in the county. Programs for this committee include soils and crops, women in ag, Annie’s Project and other ag types of events.

Barb Ernst David Burton

Patrick Byers

Johnny Davis

HISTORIC SCHOOLS (New in 2014): This committee will need to draw heavily on community volunteers and may also provide an opportunity for interns. This committee is responsible for developing the Missouri Historic Schools Alliance program for Greene County Extension. Including in this is a local tour of historic schools and a statewide “Century Schools” recognition program that has the potential to generate funds for our office.

Those who have volunteered to serve starting in 2014 include: Bonnie Roggensees Mike Collins Frank Bridges Phoebe Quinn

Page 9

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

4-H Report for Greene County

Learning anything their hearts desire Local 4-H clubs teach children valuable life skills Written by Daniel Snyder, Community Free Press, Nov. 13, 2013 Often when people hear the term 4-H, farming and agriculture come to mind. But 4-H—which stands for head, heart, hands and health—allows youths 5-18 years-old the opportunity to pursue any activity they are interested in.

“4-H is an organization for youth and families that allows youth to develop mastery in their interest area and also develop leadership and community along the way,” said Jeremy Elliott-Engel, a University of Missouri Extension 4-H youth development specialist. “4-H covers essentially any area that someone would want to have an interest in. If you want to do it, there is a way to do it.” The club offers programs in robotics, sciences, farming and more.

The deadline to sign up to be a full member of 4-H is Dec. 1. Full members can participate in all shows and events, while those who register after Dec. 1 are only allowed to take part in certain events.

“We did start in agriculture, but now we cover four general areas, which are science—which includes rocketry and robotics—leadership, citizenship and healthy living,” Elliott-Engel said. If a child is interested in an activity that is not offered by their area 4-H Club, the club director will usually try to remedy the situation.

The club teaches children about a variety of life-skills including leadership, commitment, critical thinking, teamwork and countless others.

“I think the best thing about 4-H is that Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

More About 4-H As the largest out-of-school youth organization in the world, 4-H is open to all boys and girls, ages 5 to18. Children who are five to seven years old are eligible for 4-H Clover Kids, an introductory program. Youths who are 8 to 18 years of age can select from a variety of 4-H projects and activities that stress social and life skills in areas such as decision making, communication, social interaction, civic responsibility and physical skills. Children do not have to live on a farm to join 4-H. Project opportunities include computers, robotics, foods and nutrition, horticulture, large and small animals and more. Missouri 4-H is University of Missouri Extension's youth development program. Learn more online.

it is a family activity and while children are learning about all of these things, they’re learning very important life skills that they are going to use for the rest of their lives,” said Karla Deaver, a MU Extension 4-H youth development specialist who works with Greene County clubs.

Last year there were 225 members and 100 volunteers associated with Greene County clubs and Deaver says she expects that number to grow.

Greene County also has two teams that will be competing at a national horse contest in Louisville, Ky. There is also a robotics 4-H group that holds an annual fair at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. The next one will be at the end of June.

Children ages 5-7 can join Clover Kids, a noncompetitive 4-H group where they learn about the club and take part in projects. From ages 8-18, 4-H members can participate in events and fairs.

“4-H membership starts at age 8 and youths can be [involved up] to age 18 and they can be on the same project every year, so they are continuing to build on those skills,” Elliott-Engel said.

Springfield 4-H Clubs 4-H Beach Club; Neon 4-H Club; Springfield Aggies 4-H Club For a complete list of 4-H groups in the area, visit www.extension.missouri.edu/greene/4h.aspx

Page 10

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Horticulture Specialist Community Contact: TV and Radio  1 live interviews with KOLR10’s Chris Smith  4 radio interviews with Morris Westfall’s “Farm Page of the Air” Print media  Contributed to several articles and interviews Requests for information  Telephone contacts – 30 for advisement  Email contacts – 26 contacts  Office visits, professional contacts – 2 for consultation and advisement  Farm site visits – 1 for consultation and advisement

Programs Presented: 

 

“Fireblight,” guest lecture for upper level undergraduate MSU Plant Pathology class, Springfield (11/26/13) “Introduction to Turf Science,” Pennington turf workshop series, Greenfield (12/5/13) “Writing A Farm Food Safety Plan,” Regional Food Safety on the Farm Conference (with Shon Bishop (LU)), Springfield (12/18/13)



Upcoming programs 





 



Coordinated:   



Master Gardeners of Greene County board meeting (12/2/13) Master Gardeners of Greene County chapter meeting (12/10/13) Farm Safety Workshop, FMO/KRAFT Professional Development Series, Springfield (12/18/13) Horticulture soil test reports - recommendations and distribution for SW region – 26 reports during reporting period

Participated in:     

Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District board meeting, Springfield (12/3/13) MU Viticulture Extension teleconference, Springfield (12/9/13) Lincoln University Busby Farm advisory board meeting, Jefferson City (12/11/13) USDA Sentinel Plant Network training conference, Kansas City (12/11-12/13) SW Regional Faculty and Staff monthly

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

meeting, Springfield (12/17/13) FMO board meeting, Springfield (12/18/13)

 



“Irrigation System Maintenance,” Great Plains Growers Con- Patrick Byers ference, St Joseph Horticulture (1/9/14) byerspl@missouri.edu Spotted Wing Drosophila clinic, Great Plains Growers Conference, St Joseph (1/10/13) “Updates with the Midwest Small Fruit Spray Guide,” Great Plains Growers Conference, St Joseph (1/11/14) “Table Grape Cultivars,” Great Plains Growers Conference, St Joseph (1/11/13) “Advanced Social Media for Farmers,” FMO/KRAFT professional development for farmers series, Springfield (1/15/14) “Elderberry: Production, Research Potential, and Challenges,” Upper Midwest Regional Fruit & Vegetable Growers Conference & Trade Show, St. Cloud, MN (11/16/13) Food Safety for Farmers Markets workshop, West Plains (1/22/13) “Berry Opportunities for Produce Auctions,” Jamesport Produce Auction annual meeting, Jamesport (1/25/13) 2014 Master Gardener core training orientations, Springfield (1/28/14, 1/30/14)

Human interest: Attendance at USDA Plant Sentinel Network Annual Training Conference Kelly McGowan and Patrick Byers, along with Greene County Master Gardener Hotline coordinator Pat Ware, attended the USDA Plant Sentinel Network annual training conference on December 10-12 in Kansas City. Funded through the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), the Sentinel Plant Network (SPN) is a collaboration between the American

Page 11

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Horticulture Specialist Public Gardens Association (APGA) and the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN). The Sentinel Plant Network contributes to plant conservation by engaging public garden professionals, volunteers, and visitors in the detection and diagnosis of high consequence pests and pathogens. The Master Gardener Hotline represents the Springfield/Greene County Botanical Center on SPN. The conference was hosted by Powell Gardens, and brought together over 45 representatives from public gardens and agencies across the upper Midwest and the West. Patrick, Kelly, and Pat heard presentations on a range of pests that will have serious consequences when they arrive in southwest Missouri. Several of these pests, such as brown marmorated stink bug, thousand cankers disease of walnut, and emerald ash borer, are poised to enter our region. We learned through hands-on exercises how to identify these pests and develop recommendations. As a result

of attending the conference, we now plan to institute a SPN training program called “First Detectors” for Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, and other volunteers in Greene County. By doing this we hope to develop a network of trained individuals to assist with identification of these and other high consequence pests.

Patrick, Kelly, and Pat discussing identification techniques for emerald ash borer at the SPN conference.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 12

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Master Gardeners of Greene County Testimonial from a Master Gardener This provides an example of what Master Gardener training could help some people accomplish.

The value of the training shows in what they have been able to tackle and accomplish with Master Gardener Core Training.

The Master Gardener Program is a popular and successful statewide volunteer community-service organization administered through University of Missouri Extension. The organization’s goal is to train gardeners who are willing to share their knowledge with others. Master Gardeners become volunteers of University of Missouri Extension and donate hours for community educational projects in horticulture. Volunteer activities include working with non-profit organizations, maintaining community gardens, conducting workshops, participating in a Master Gardener speakers’ bureau and staffing the Master Gardener “Hotline.” The Master Gardeners of Greene County can boast of over 300 members. For more information visit the chapters website at http://www.mggreene.org.

“We have been busy helping our friend on his farm. This past summer, we planted several varieties of squash and beans, tomatoes, and cucumbers, corn, okra, eggplant, and sunflowers. We also planted purslane, and some beautiful golden amaranth. This fall we planted clover, garlic, turnips, collards, lettuce, arugula, cabbage, and beets. We put together a small green house and some cold frames for this winter season. We also constructed a garden tower for the inside of the green house and another garden tower which we set up and planted fall greens: collards, Kale, and beets, at a long term care facility in town.

We have also started an apiary project and the bees got off to a slow start, but once the nectar flow began, there was no stopping them. We remember this past spring when we met you at the Master Gardener classes and we shared with you our plans for the year and that all of it was new to us, and you said, something like "you guys are jumping head first off a cliff."

It turned out to be lots of hard work with mistakes made and some lessons learned. But you know what, we have enjoyed every bit of it. We are very thankful for the opportunity to be part of Master Gardeners of Greene County and you all have been an encouragement to us in our work.”

Guy and Johanna, New Master Gardeners, Class of 2013

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 13

Donation period runs from October 1 to Sept. 30

2014 Contributors to “Friends of Greene County Extension” Corporate Level

Steve & Marlu McElhany Lee & Julie Viorel

Benefactor Level

Associate Level

Patron Level William & Virginia Darr George Deatz Friends of the Garden Joe Jenkins Ann Hall

Sponsor Level Greater Ozarks Hosta Society Jim & Nancy Tucker

Contributor Level Carl Allison David & Stacey Burton Ramona Burton Dr. Greenthumb/Greg Peterson Family Gaylen & Dedra Jones Jack Kaiser Ryan Lawn & Tree Jody & Barbara Norman Randall & Linda Sheridan Springfield Watergarden Society Gene Wallace

Friends Level Glenn & Beverly Blake Shelby Bradley Alice Counts Bob Cirtin Billie Sue Fuller Mary Gallagher James Garton Douglas Green Avis Holloway Richard & Yvonne Jarvis Jeff Jones

Jodie Adams Cindy Arrowood Mr./Mrs. David Bailey Robert & Jana Belk Mardell Bontrager Kim Chaffin Steven Counts Kathleen Goff Fred & Elaine Hamburg Harrison Farm Dulcinea Fisher-Smith William Hosman Rita Johnson Bob & Barbara Kipfer Dorothy Miller Frieda Morris Edie Nelson Albert Niewald Gladys O’Dell Minuen Odom Cathy & Alex Primm Crystal Quade H. James Roper Second Wind Companies Stewart Farm Elizabeth & Paul Taylor Randy Underwood

There is still time to make 2013 tax year contribution!

Checks can be mailed to the local office or donations can also be made online. See the county website or use this direct link to make donations online.

Shown here are council members Carl Allison (far left) and George Deatz (far right) accepting a gift from the Springfield Watergarden Society represented by Pat Ware, President.

Shown here are council members Carl Allison (left) and George Deatz (right) accepting a gift to the Friends of Greene County Extension campaign from the Greater Ozarks Hosta Society represented by Tom Lakowske (chapter president) and J.J. Averett (chapter treasurer).

Total Cash Contributed: $11,564

Donation period for our “annual fund” year runs from October 1 to Sept. 30.

2013 Contributors to “Friends of Greene County Extension” Corporate Level Sanford & Assoc. CPA

Friends Level

Carl Allison Clydette Alsup Egbers Master Gardeners of Judy Averett Greene County Lisa & John Bakerink The Beauty Shop Meyer Mark & Renae Communications— Bernskoetter KWTO and KTXR Judith Bradley American Business Ramona Burton Systems Donna Carney Carr Stock Farms, LLC Sunshine Valley Farm Bob Childress — Jan and Robert & Brenda Cirtin Michael Wooten Debbie & Stephen Benefactor Level Collins Greene County Soil & Charles Edmonson Water ConservaBillie Sue Fuller tion District Board James Garton Dr. Greenthumb of Patron Level Springfield LLC Harold Bender David Hall Major and Marthe Marjorie Harris Close Debi Hunget Jack Crabb Richard Jarvis George Deatz Joe Jenkins Sharon DeRubis Jeffrey Jones Gaylen and Deborah Sponsor Level Jones Anonymous Dr. Douglas Jones David & Stacey Burton Mary Joplin David & Nancy Ann Kynion Chambers Peter Longley Home Pride Inc. Darlene Nave Jack Kaiser Dellene Nelson Old Missouri Bank / Larry Nelson Billy Claiborn Nosegay Garden Club — Yvette Platz Contributor Level Larry & Nancy O'Reilly Harold Bengsch Barbara Parker Joyce Brown Ryan & Kelly Patterson Marla Calico Carolyn Schirmer Linda Deatz Howard Schwartz Dalen & Pam Duitsman Sheryl Shaefer Ann Hall Jim Shelledy Main Street Feeds Mike Sidebottom Darrell & Danette Paula Vinson Proctor David & Glenda Welde Race Brothers Farm Leslie Wilde Supply Gail Wright

Partner Level Anonymous Dan Cardwell Robert Crankshaw Mr. and Mrs. Rex Conway Fraley Dayle Enderson Rae Ann Feemster Barbara Kipfer James Mauldin Frieda Morris Albert & Nancy Niewald Betty Shook Patsy Spindler Mr. & Mrs. Randy Underwood Paula Vinson Rebecca Willis Wannagetta Pizza

Associate Level Doris Adams Marilyn Anderson Ted Anderson Cynthia Arrowood Jennifer Baldwin Diann Barth Julia Boyce Malia Bucher Pat Buton Wanda Bumgarner Sherry Clifton Steven Counts/DPI Printing Oscar Cross Barbara Dickensheet George Freeman Patsy Fry Rob & Brenda Funkhouser Cindy Garner James Garton Don & Sandy Garoutte Dorothy Hilton Avis Holloway

Roberta Jones Kenny Knauer Sandra Letson Dewayne Long Karen McDonald Fred & Dorothy Miller Lisa Munkatchy Edie Nelson Ruth PenaherreraNorton Stephen & Tana Pulles Crystal Ramos Kathryn Redman Reva Roberson Wanda Simpkins Mike & Dianne Six Jeanie Skibiski Kathryn Steinhoff Carol Stephenson Paul Taylor Gene Thomas Patricia Tursi Charles Wallace Alan & Pat Ware John & Lorri Winters A. Lee Worman Circle B Ranch Echigo Farm Fassnight Creek Farm Farm Road 168 Happy Mouth Foods Katiemade Breads Landers Meats Mockingbird Gardens Ozark Natural Foods Quickley Produce Farm Sunny Lane Farms Sassie Sharons Terrell Creek Farm Urban Roots Farm Yang Family Farm Williams Creek Winery Mother's Brewery

An equal opportunity/ADA institution

Total Cash Raised: $27,662 * Total In-Kind Raised: $11,576

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated December 18, 2013

Corporate Sponsors      

Sanford and Associates, CPA, Springfield, Mo.: (417) 886-2220, Master Gardeners of Greene County: http://www.mggreene.org Meyer Communications, KWTO 560 AM / KTXR 101.3 FM: (417) 862-3751, American Business Systems, Springfield, Mo.: (417) 866-5083, www.ambussys.com Sunshine Valley Farm, 8125 E State Highway AD, Rogersville, ph (417) 753-2698 Springfield-Greene County Park Board, Ph 417-864-1049, www.parkboard.org

Extension Partner Meetings

County Commission meetings: 1st and 3rd Mondays of month; confirm agenda and meeting at http://www.greenecountymo.org/commission.

Commission building, Springfield, at 9:30 a.m.

Park Board Meetings: Second Friday of each month at 8:30 a.m., at Parks offices, 1923 N. Weller, Springfield. Call 864-1049 to confirm.

4-H Leader’s Council Meetings: 3rd Thursday of each month (except July) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2852 S Dayton Ave, Springfield.

Greene County Extension Office located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Tel: (417) 881-8909 Fax (417) 823-4818 Office hours: Monday - Friday * 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Master Gardeners of Greene County— board meeting: First Monday of each month at 4:00 p.m. at the Botanical Center.

Master Naturalists Board Meetings: The board meets at 5:30pm at the MDC regional office, on the second Wednesday of the month.

Master Gardeners of Greene County-membership meeting: Second Tuesday each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Botanical Center.

Greene County Farm Bureau — Second Monday of the month at Farm Bureau 2530 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, near Lawrence Photo.

Starts at 7:30 p.m.

Can I Help?

Lorri can help customers with material needs, soil tests or program registrations. Contact her at the Greene County Extension Center, (417) 881-8909.

Lorri Winters joined Extension in 2005.

Lorri Winters Office Manager

Videos on YouTube Learn more about MU Extension programs by watching the videos posted to our channel at www.youtube.com/MUExtension417.

On Facebook Become a fan of MUExtension417 and get regular updates about programs and news from MU Extension in southwest Missouri. Find us at facebook.com/MUExtension417.

Each “Reaching Out Report” is used by Greene County Extension specialists to concisely communicate activities, contacts and events to members of the Greene County Extension Council and Greene County Commission. For more about this report contact the editor, David Burton, at (417) 881-8909.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene