Timeline Detailing the Restructuring of a Dysfunctional Master Gardener Program in Salt Lake County
ISSN 2158-9429
Volume 5, Issue 2 - December 2012
Editor: Linda Chalker-Scott
Abstract
The Salt Lake County Master Gardener program was restructured in 2011 to meet Utah State University (USU) Extension policies and procedures. Prior to restructuring, most Master Gardener projects did not benefit Extension programming and demonstrated little educational outreach. A survey conducted in spring 2011 found 53% of Master Gardeners were very satisfied with Salt Lake Extension's role in the program. Several volunteers suggested more educational and diagnostic learning opportunities would increase their excitement to volunteer as well as discontinuation of high labor, low public outreach projects. A follow-up survey in spring 2012 found 73% of volunteers were very satisfied with the Master Gardener Program. It was critical for USU Extension administration to be aware and supportive of restructuring efforts by county faculty throughout the reshaping of the program.
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