We have some great programs in Brevard County. We're required to put in 35 hours of volunteer time and 10 continuing education hours. I get some of the volunteer hours done by helping to maintain a butterfly garden at the Cape, part of the Air Force tourist program; and for a couple of hours once a week at local libraries -- we are there for the public to answer any questions they may have. Sorry that you weren't too impressed Liz.
I help out every year by interviewing the newer "students" who have signed up for the course. Everyone has a different reason for becoming a Master Gardener and I've met some very interesting people. My education hours will be more than made up when I go to the UF in Gainesville and take their "Short Course" (two days of classes and field trips). I've done this a few times now and thoroughly enjoy them.
I learned a very important lesson from day 1; the climate in central Florida is different than north Florida and it is different than south Florida. We help out in the schools (I've taught butterfly gardening) and help them put in raised veggie beds. We're creating a Botanical Garden for the public to use. We hold a big plant sale twice a year; everything grown by the MG's - organically. It can keep you very busy; but I've learned to balance it better so I can spend some time in my own gardens.
