PONTIAC, Ill. - University of Illinois Extension would like to congratulate the Livingston County Master Gardeners on receiving a state award from the Illinois Master Gardener program. They were recognized at an online conference and awards ceremony on September 10. 

The Flanagan Elementary School Garden/Junior Master Gardener project received the Master Gardener Teamwork Award, which was established to honor projects which have made a difference in the community. The group of Master Gardeners had to show a focused team approach to a project, innovation, and improving an existing project to serve their community better. Livingston County Master Gardeners part of this team are Cathy Montgomery, Sandy Knight, Diane McGuckin, Vic Wiechmann, Dee Woodburn, Paula Trainor-Rosenbaum, RaeJean Kuntz, Joan Smeltzer, Linda Corban, Carol Gardner, Jean Dunning, Connie Kostelc, Jan Nussbaum, and Cindy Kinate. 

The project seeks to enhance gardening experiences and education through hands-on learning with teachers and students. Master Gardeners engage with primary through high school age students on a variety of statewide gardening initiatives including food access and pollinator education.

Congratulations and great job to all of the recipients! If you see the Livingston County Master Gardeners teaching or out working in the community, thank them for their outstanding efforts in improving the community and helping others learn to grow.

For more information about the Livingston County Master Gardener program, visit us at go.illinois.edu/LMW_MG or contact the Livingston County Extension Office at 815-842-1776.  

WRITER: Brittnay Haag Horticulture Educator, University of Illinois Extension

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