Today was my Master Preserver’s class. It was a bit grim.
The local election included a bond measure to fund the already hurting Extension Service. It failed. Barring some stroke of good fortune, the program I’m currently in, along with the Master Gardeners, Master Recyclers, Master Composters and more, will be gone as of Labor Day.
No more gardening hotline, no more food preservation/food safety hotline. No more Master Gardener volunteers to identify an unknown plant, or tell you what’s ailing your favorite rose. We’re on our own here in Lane County, Oregon.
I’m sure glad I didn’t put off taking this class again – I’d been thinking about it for a couple of years. I’ve learned a few things, acquired a number of good resources, and gained some confidence in my knowledge and abilities.
And I’m looking forward to the upcoming gardening year full of lots of preserving techniques and recipes I’d like to try.
Really sorry to hear the bond measure failed!!!
A beekeeper friend writes about the plight of the honeybee today on my blog. Thought it would interest you.