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MASTER GARDENERS BEHIND BARS - PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY BENEFIT

Extension Education

Erwin Elsner
MSU EXTENSION
TRAVERSE CITY

Abstract

A big challenge facing people upon release from incarceration is finding employment. The Pugsley Correctional Facility approached MSU Extension regarding educational programming for inmates to strengthen their knowledge base for their personal development and to increase their chances of employment upon release. The Master Gardener program was a good fit, as the facility had already established several inmate-tended gardening sites within the compound. Seventeen inmates and Officer Burgess enrolled for the first offering of the course in January of 2009; inmates were personally responsible for the course fees to assure a good “buy-in” on their behalf. Standard MSU Master Gardener course materials were used, with some modifications as needed to conform to prison standards and safeguards. Inmate participants were allowed to count time spent on direct gardening activity and instructing other inmates working in the gardens for their volunteer time commitment. In the 2009 growing season, the inmate MG trainees and prison staff managed nine gardens inside the facility totaling 60,000 sq.ft., and an additional 20,000 sq.ft. of garden space outside of the prison walls. They grew twenty two fruits and vegetables as well as fifty varieties of ornamentals (perennials and annuals). Their top yields were from zucchini (4900 lbs.), onions (2700 lbs.), summer squash (2385 lbs.), tomatoes (3000 lbs.) and beans (1650 lbs.). They produced and donated over 19,000 lbs of food. Fresh vegetables and fruit were donated to the Fresh Food Partnership which distributes to 34 local food pantries, shelters and community meal programs.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: E.A. Elsner*, R.L. Dow, S. Fouch, M. Burgess
  1. Elsner*, E. Agricultural Educator, Michigan State University Extension, Grand Traverse County, Michigan, 49684
  2. Dow, R. Water Quality Educator, Michigan State University Extension, Grand Traverse County, Michigan, 49684
  3. Fouch, S. Agricultural Educator, Michigan State University Extension, Benzie County, Michigan, 49617
  4. Burgess, M. Food Service Director, Pugsley Correctional Facility, Michigan, 49649