MG History - Queen Anne's County

The year 2008 marks the 10th anniversary of the Queen Anne’s County Master Gardener Program. It was started in 1998 under the guidance of coordinator Danielle Fitzko, who ran it until 2003. The first classes were held at Adkins Arboretum with 24 interns. Of the first class, 7 members are still highly active and about half are still affiliated in some way.

Karen Long, previously of the Anne Arundel County program, took over as coordinator from 2004-2005. A highly energetic and self-directed group, the county’s Master Gardeners directed themselves during coordinator absences in 2003 and 2005.

In 2005, members of the Queen Anne’s County program residing in Talbot County successfully petitioned for a program coordinator in their county, thus establishing a separate program. In October of 2005, our current coordinator, Neenah Hoppe, took over leadership in Queen Anne’s County.

A monthly newsletter, The Watering Can, provides information and keeps members connected. Most recently, to commemorate the program’s 10th Anniversary and raise funds for programs, Master Gardeners developed a 50 page, spiral bound book entitled, ‘Seasons’ Best: A Collection of Recipes, Garden Tips, Wisdom and Lore’, based on archived issues from the Watering Can. The first 300 copies have sold out and more will be printed for 2008.

Today the Queen Anne’s County program has grown into an expansive network, with more than 240 people trained. Presently there are 77 active Master Gardeners who work on a variety of projects at Adkins Arboretum, run Jr. Master Gardener after school programs, staff bi-weekly plant clinics at the Chestertown farmers market and are involved in numerous demonstration gardens and outreach efforts throughout the county. This dedicated group commits thousands of hours each year to engaging our community and improving our environment.

For more information, contact Robin Hessey

Last updated: 04/8/2008