COMMUNITY AND URBAN HORTICULTURE
Rooted in Service: Master Gardeners Cultivating Knowledge and Community
At their core, OSU Extension Service Master Gardeners are dedicated community volunteers who support OSU Extension, address local challenges, and help residents thrive. Their work is rooted in service—sharing knowledge, strengthening communities, and empowering gardeners across Clackamas County.
In 2025, Master Gardener volunteers demonstrated this commitment by answering over 1,700 gardening questions through the OSU Master Gardener Helpline, delivering garden-focused presentations, and teaching community members successful, sustainable gardening practices. They shared low-cost methods for growing food and engaged in meaningful conversations with gardeners about building resilience amid a changing climate—further cultivating both knowledge and community connections.
As garden educators, OSU Master Gardeners participated in events and celebrations across the county, providing science-based guidance and access to OSU resources. Our program partnered with and supported community gatherings such as the Canby Earth Day Fest, Lake Oswego Urban Forest Summit, Milwaukie’s Sustainability Fair and Bee City USA Celebration, Oregon City Arts Festival, Timberline Rim Firewise Celebration, and the West Linn Pollinator Fair. Volunteers also eagerly provided gardening guidance at seed swaps in Milwaukie, Oregon City, and Sandy, as well as at farmers’ markets in Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, and Oregon City. Through these community outreach events, and many others, Master Gardeners served more than 4,300 community members, providing reliable gardening advice that strengthens local resilience and connection.
