As we move into a new year, the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is excited to share the many ways our volunteers continue to strengthen communities across Washington. One of the first major events of the season is the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival, where many of the educational seminars are aligned with the research‑based training our volunteers receive. These sessions cover everything from sustainable landscaping and vegetable production to pruning, plant science, and garden design—topics that help our volunteers bring the latest, most reliable horticulture knowledge back to their communities.
Behind the scenes, we’re also in the midst of our annual statewide reporting effort. Last year, we set ambitious goals for county participation and survey responses, and we’re proud to share that counties across Washington stepped up in a big way. While we collected about half of the responses we aimed for, the information gathered is incredibly meaningful. These surveys help us understand how Master Gardener volunteers are improving environmental stewardship, supporting local food production, and empowering residents with practical, research‑based gardening education. This data strengthens our funding proposals, guides program decisions, and helps us tell a clear, compelling story about the difference our volunteers make.
Later this year, we’ll release the 2025 WSU Master Gardener Program Impact Report—a powerful reflection of the dedication, expertise, and compassion our volunteers bring to their work. Their efforts reach tens of thousands of Washingtonians each year through classes, demonstration gardens, plant clinics, youth programs, and community partnerships.