Virginia Cooperative Extension is currently training a new class of Master Gardener Volunteers.  Master Gardeners are educators throughout the community helping citizens to understand and better manage their landscapes, gardens and homes.  On a recent field trip to Garst Mill Park Master Gardeners learned about water quality and the importance of protecting our natural resources.  Instructor, Sharon Stinnette, teaches about watersheds, aquatic life, pollution, the monitoring process and how important this is in helping us to preserve resources within our communities.  Understanding the best practices to use on our own properties leads us to a better understanding of how we can each impact water on a global scale.  Master Gardeners teach waterwise programs in a variety of local venues.  

Submitted by Barbara Leach, Horticulture Technician, Virginia Cooperative Extension