Conversations with a Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer

This past March, after more than 50 hours of training, field trips and group sessions, a number of dedicated individuals interested in gardening and working in their communities, became Certified Master Gardener Volunteers through the Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program. These volunteers came together from cities and towns throughout the Mohawk Valley including from Herkimer, Otsego, Schoharie, Montgomery and Delaware counties.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Mission

The mission Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) is to enable people to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research knowledge to work. In addition to the Master Gardener Volunteer Program, CCE county offices

• Teach classes at libraries, community gardens, and other local spots
• Teach and maintain demonstration gardens at CCE Association Offices
• Share gardening tips at farmers’ markets, county fairs, and other community events
• Grow plants and coordinate fundraisers to support garden-based learning in the community
• Facilitate the Seed to Supper Program, a beginner food gardening series

Getting to know Amanda, Master Gardener Volunteer in  Ilion, Herkimer County

We recently had a chance to talk with newly certified Master Gardener Volunteer, Amanda Norton, who also serves as the Director of the Ilion Community Garden.

Hi Amanda, so good to have a chance to talk with you today. You have recently been Certified as a Master Gardener Volunteer. Can you tell us a little about that?

“The Community Garden has previously sponsored students for previous Master Gardener programs. I felt like it was the right time for me to finally complete the training myself. I really enjoyed it, and most importantly, it helped me find joy in gardening again. I feel more competent in my gardening skills and enjoyed meeting all the like-minded, earth-conscious, planty people right here in the Mohawk Valley.”

That’s fantastic! What surprised you the most about the training?

“What surprised me the most about the training is the diversity of topics covered. Everything from growing food and flowers, to plant diagnostics, to growing the best grass. My personal favorite was the composting unit!”

How do you think it will impact your role as the Director of the Ilion Community Garden?

“I believe I have more knowledge as a gardener. I have coached people in gardening for years, my knowledge is mostly self-taught through research and experience. I think the title of Master Gardener gives my role legitimacy and has also given me so many really good resources for problem solving.”

Did your experience with the Ilion Community Garden lead to you becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer? How?

“Yes. I started the community garden as a novice gardener and going through the Master Gardener program just made sense. If I’m already in this leadership role within my community, why not become a Master Gardener Volunteer? I was proud to accept a full scholarship for the training, and I’m grateful that my work spoke for itself. I was welcomed into the program so openly BECAUSE of the community garden. It’s been a great opportunity!

We’ll continue our conversation next time with Amanda to find out more about the Ilion Community Garden and how community gardens offer residents a place to gather and learn together.