University of Illinois Extension, Fulton-Mason-Peoria-Tazewell Unit is pleased to announce Nicole Flowers-Kimmerle, of East Peoria, has joined the team as the new horticulture educator. Her new role will include a wide range of horticulture programs, educational resources, and overseeing the unit Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs.

“Attending the Master Naturalist training last year was one of my favorite educational experiences,” mentioned Nicole. “It is exciting to be working with that program in my new position.”

Before joining Extension, Nicole received her Bachelor of Science in crop science from University of Illinois, Master of Science Agronomy in weed science from University of Wisconsin-Madison and taught high school science at Midwest Central in Manito.

Extension has been a part of Nicole Flowers-Kimmerle’s life ever since she was a  4-H member in Mercer County’s Alexis All Star 4-H Club. As an adult, Nicole continued her Extension connection through the Master Naturalist training and participation in Teacher Tuesdays science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programming.

“One of my many goals is to provide people with the chance to learn about and experience the diversity of this area of Illinois; from the river to wetlands to prairies to sandy soils, this area has a lot to discover,” stated Nicole.

While Nicole’s physical office location is the Fulton County branch office in Lewistown, you will see her throughout the four counties and be able to learn from her via many online options.

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ILRiverHort is a blog that helps people connect to nature and grow.