1st Master Gardener Class for 2011

Interested in becoming a Master Gardener in 2011? Coconino County Extension will begin training on February 8th-May 17th in 2011. Classes will be held each Tuesday from 1pm-430pm at the East Flagstaff Library. For more information or to register contact Hattie Braun at the Coconino County Extension.
928-774-1868x170 or hbraun@cals.arizona.edu.

Link to brochure:

Register early as these classes fill up quickly.

Thank You

Thank you to all who supported the Coconino Master Gardener Association in 2010. We had a very successful year with many attending our monthly meetings and lectures. We held our 1st fundraiser (calendars) and will probably do that again next year, so get those photos ready to submit. We still have calendars available at the Extension Office. Phone before you stop by as hours are variable.

We plan to participate in the Home and Garden Show in 2011 which will be in the old K-Mart Store - due to remodeling of the Snow Dome. We will again participate in the Flagstaff Community Markets. Watch this site to see what else we are up to.

In January, our first meeting will be on the 13th beginning at 6:30pm. Our new permanent location is at Shepherd of the Hills Church (1601 N. San Francisco just north of the hospital). Bea Cooley, a master gardener and member of the Audubon Society, will be the featured speaker. Her topic is "Bird Loving Plants."



All are welcome to attend the lectures. In 2011 we will be seeking a $10 membership fee for the Association. Your membership card will entitle you to get 10% off trees and shrubs at Viola's Flower Garden and 10% off all plant materials at Native Plant and Seed.

2nd Annual Coconino Master Gardener Assoc. Christmas Party

Photo by Betty Marcus

All Master Gardeners and their families are welcome to our 2nd Annual Christmas Party. Come join in the fun on Thursday, December 9th at 6:00pm.

Our host this year is Val Bryant at:
1300 N.Indian Springs Lane

The Master Gardeners will provide the main dish and those attending are asked to bring:

Last name A-G - dessert
Last name H-Q - side dish
Last name R-Z - appetizer

Each person should bring a wrapped garden-related white elephant gift for the exchange.

If you can join us please RSVP to Linda at:
linda.guarino@gmail.com or 526-2693

Directions to party:

Flagstaff Community Markets Holiday Store

Flagstaff Community Markets announces the opening of a store for the holidays featuring vendors from the Flagstaff Community Market and an eclectic variety of independent artists, specialty food producers, and regional growers.The Community Market Store will be open 7 days a week 9:30 am to 9:00 pm starting November 22, 2010 and will run through January 1, 2011. The Market Store is located on the first floor of the Old Town Shops (corner of Birch & Leroux) in historic downtown Flagstaff. The store will feature regionally produced honey, jams, pasta, salsas, hot sauce, soaps, tamales, jewelry, children's clothing, yarns, pottery and more- all hand crafted by many of your favorite vendors from the Flagstaff Community Market! Gift baskets available.

Coconio Master Gardener Assoc. Mtg. Minutes 11/11/10

Master Gardener Meeting Agenda 11/11/10
Murdoch Community Center
210 E. Brannen
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Attending: Irene Matthews, Faith Brittain, Freddi Steele, Jim Mast, Donna Small, Gretchen & Dana Smith, Art & Donna Scott, Hattie Braun, Andrea & Galen Gurrette, Juanita Gillis, Cathy Ann Trotta, Gwen & Jim Koreltz, Ann Eagan, Beth Dykstra, Vicki Belman, Kay Clark, Leslie Penick, Loni Shapiro, Paul Jones, Linda Guarino, Nancy & Jim Deblois (2 did not sign in) Total 28

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda for the evening
Loni Shapiro – reviewed an upcoming master gardener project
It is to honor Karen Cooper a master gardener who died last year. She was a former councilwoman and instrumental in the development of the FUTS trails in Flagstaff. She was also a member of the First Congregational Church (her husband is the former pastor), and they want to honor her by adding a garden in her name. They have already begun with a Peace Pole ceremony, and planting of bulbs. They have a plan that was drawn up by Native Plant and Seed, and have already collected some materials and $1300 in cash. They are looking for interested master gardener volunteers to help with the garden – supervising, advising, planning, and grunt work. More details will be provided in 2011 but if you are interested contact Loni Shapiro (cnslds@q.com)

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Gardening with Leftovers
Speakers: Nancy and Jim DeBlois with Dana Prom Smith
Dana Prom Smith introduced the speakers from his visit to their magical garden. See the Master Gardener article in the Daily Sun dated 11/6/10 for a detailed summary about their garden. At the meeting they talked about how things got started, their philosophy about using recycled materials, brought some materials to show and tell, talked about where to find them (Eric’s, friends, city dump area), and Jimmy played and sang a new piece called Maple Tree Rag.

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Hosted by Linda Guarino

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Calendar Update
We have 96 calendars left to sell by the end of the year. The craft show at Shepherd of the Hills has been cancelled so we need to try some others. Two that Loni is checking into are San Francisco de Asis on 4th and Cedar (Dec. 4 8am-4pm) and The Flagstaff Community Market (Nov. 22 – Dec. 31). The church fee is $35 and Loni will need help with the table. The market is too many days (35% of profit) but Loni will e-mail to see if we can do some days. Loni will have Hattie seed out a call for help with these sales.
Questions on Blog
Loni has posted a new area on the blog with garden questions. You need to be an active member of the blog (register on the site). She has posted a sample question to answer about winter watering. We will trial it until January and revisit. The hope is to get gardeners looking at the site and participating in sharing garden information. The answers will be opinions and not official master gardener advice.
Venue Change beginning January – Shepherd of the Hills Church
After looking at many sites, the church was selected because it allows for expansion, has good parking, is a safe area at night, known by many from other meetings, and is relatively inexpensive. We will reimburse them for utilities – probably about $200 yearly.
Membership Cards for 2011
Discounts at Viola’s – 10% off trees and shrubs
Native Plant & Seed – 10% off all plant material not on sale
Loni has e-mailed Misti at Warners but no response as yet. Hattie will check with them.
Looking for someone to come up with a logo for association
These will be issued for 2011 and will provide the above discounts if card presented. Crys Wells is creating them and they will serve as name tags and cards for ID. She is looking for some help to create a logo. Gretchan Smith with think about helping. The ideas is to give people incentive to join the association.
Voting for Officers
The slate from last year agreed to be nominated for a 2nd year. No new nominations were presented. The vote was unanimous.
Finance update– Ed Skiba
Balances in accounts
Ed not present but balance last month was $424.46 – Hattie & Loni have calendar money (160 – 60) – making it a total of $644.46. At last meeting the savings was at $226.94.

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith (see schedule below)
Dana reports he is having less trouble finding writers. He is looking for gardening people in the community to do interviews with. If you have any contact him.
Community Programs
Speakers Bureau–Jim Mast
Jim did his monthly call for adding more speakers to the Bureau. He outlined the importance.
Home Show–Hattie Braun
As reported last month Faith Brittain is in charge but looking for helpers. Julie Holmes has agreed to help. Hattie reported that the Skydome is under repair this spring and they are looking for a new site as yet undetermined. We are asking for 2 booths in exchange for speaking at the show.
Coordination MG Projects–Linda Guarino
The committee is busy updating the list of projects with Hattie for distribution to the current master gardener class in December. They are eliminating some that have vague projects or contacts and just keeping a list of firm possibilities.
Volunteer Support/Social – Hattie Braun/Crys Wells
Logging MG Hours – Crys Wells
Crys reports 161.5 volunteer hours in October and 34 continuing education. She is working on providing a summary of hours reported for 2010 that will be e-mailed to all those who have sent in hours. This should be done by the end of November.
December party – Val Bryant
Not present but Hattie and Linda shared info about the party. It will be at Val’s, the county will provide the meat, and others will be asked to bring appetizers, salad or side, and desserts. This will be done as the picnic by alphabet. The party will be from 6pm-8pm, Val will provide drinks, and you need to bring a white elephant garden gift (preferably something used or fun). Invitation to follow from Linda.

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions
Loni talked about the Plant Search on the High Country Web Site (www.highcountrygardens.com). You can put in several pieces of information and they recommend a plant (blossom time, sun, moisture, soil, height, color, growing region, zone, and specific categories (attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds/resists deer, rabbits/fragrant flowers or foliage/evergreen).
A question about bulbs that are molding. Suggested chilling or getting in the ground asap. Should be ok as long as they are not soft or mushy.

Next meeting: January 13, 2010
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
1601 N. San Francisco
Bird Loving Plants – Bea Cooley, Audubon Society

Schedule for future meetings:
December 9, 2010 Christmas Party at Val Bryant’s home / Invitation to follow
February 10, 2011 Spiders of Winter – Freddi Steele, writer and former naturalist with the park service
March 10, 2011 Chaa Organic Farm in Belize - Linda Neff, anthropologist
April 14, 2011 Therapeutic Horticulture vs. Horticultural Therapy – Loni Shapiro
May 12, 2011 Foxglove Gardening – Joanie Abbott
June 9, 2011 Sustainability – William Auberle

Continuing Education/Volunteer Opportunities:

Flagstaff Holiday Community Market
Old Towne Shops 11/22/10-12/30/10

Flagstaff Flower & Garden Club / Wreaths & Swags & Fireplace Mantels
Riordan Mansion 11/22/10 6:30pm

For details on above opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

Coconino Master Gardener Association Meeting 11/11/10

Master Gardener Meeting Agenda 11/11/10
Murdoch Community Center
210 E. Brannen
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Gardening with Leftovers
Speakers: Nancy and Jim DeBlois with Dana Prom Smith

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Hosted by Linda Guarino

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Calendar Update

Questions on Blog

Venue Change beginning January – Shepherd of the Hills Church

Membership Cards for 2011
Discounts at Viola’s – 10% off trees and shrubs
Native Plant & Seed – 10% off all plant material not on sale
Looking for someone to come up with a logo for association

Voting for Officers

Finance update– Ed Skiba
Balances in accounts

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith (see schedule below)

Community Programs
Speakers Bureau–Jim Mast
Home Show–Hattie Braun

Coordination MG Projects–Linda Guarino

Volunteer Support/Social – Hattie Braun/Crys Wells
Logging MG Hours – Crys Wells
December party – Val Bryant

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions

Next meeting: January 13, 2010
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
1601 N. San Francisco
Bird Loving Plants – Bea Cooley, Audubon Society

Schedule for future meetings:
December 9, 2010 Christmas Party at Val Bryant’s home / Invitation to follow
February 10, 2011 Spiders of Winter – Freddi Steele, writer and former naturalist with the park service
March 10, 2011 Chaa Organic Farm in Belize - Linda Neff, anthropologist
April 14, 2011 Therapeutic Horticulture vs. Horticultural Therapy – Loni Shapiro
May 12, 2011 Foxglove Gardening – Joanie Abbott
June 9, 2011 Sustainability – William Auberle

Continuing Education/Volunteer Opportunities:

Flagstaff Holiday Community Market
Old Towne Shops 11/15/10-12/30/10

Flagstaff Flower & Garden Club / Wreaths & Swags & Fireplace Mantels
Riordan Mansion 11/22/10 6:30pm

For details on above opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

Holiday Market 11/15-12/30/10

What: A holiday market featuring vendors from the Flagstaff Community Markets and an eclectic variety of independent artists, specialty food producers, and regional growers.
Where: Old Town Shops (Corner of Birch and Leroux)
When: Nov 15th through Dec 30th 2010

For more information please email flagstaffmarket@gmail.com

The Market Store is located on the first floor of the Old Town Shops (corner of Leroux Street and Avenue) in historic downtown Flagstaff. The store will feature locally produced honey, jams, pasta, hot sauce, soaps, baked goods, tamales, jewelry, children’s clothing, yarns, pottery and more- all hand crafted!

For information please contact Art or Heather Babbott at 774-7781 or flagstaffmarket@gmail.com

Volunteer Opportunity

Theresa McHugh (spring class of 2010) and her husband Justin Kendhammer are trying to establish a garden at Mount Elden Middle School where Justin teaches. Their first garden workday is this Saturday, November 6, from 10 AM to 12 PM. They plan to pull weeds, turn the soil, and add organic material.

Contact Theresa McHugh if you can help: tamchugh@yahoo.com

Hattie Braun
University of Arizona
Master Gardener Program Coordinator

Coconino County Cooperative Extension
2304 N. 3rd St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Phone: 928-774-1868 x 170
FAX: 928-774-1860

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Coconino Master Gardener Association Meeting

Our next meeting will be in November.
Where: Murdoch Community Center, 210 E. Brannen, Flagstaff, AZ
The Murdoch Center is located at 203 E. Brannen Ave. The building is on Butler Ave. about 1 ½ blocks west of Flagstaff Native Plant and Seed. You need to be on Brannen to enter the parking lot. From Butler Ave. turn north on S. Eldon (corner of Native Plant & Seed). Make a left onto Brannen Ave. The Murdoch Center parking will be on your left.

When: Thursday november 11th, 630pm-830pm

Speakers: Nancy and Jim DeBlois with the help of Dana Prom Smith
Gardening with Leftovers
Watch for the newspaper column on Saturday November 6th, for information about this talk.

Agenda for the meeting to be posted by November 7th on this blog.

Loni Shapiro
Secretary

Master Gardener Assoc. Meeting Minutes 10/14/10

Murdoch Community Center
210 E. Brannen
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speaker
6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Gardening with Native Plants
Susan Lamb Bean – writer and naturalist

Synopsis of Sun, Wind, and Slope: Gardening the Microclimates of the Flagstaff Area
Susan began her power point lecture with the general climate of Flagstaff. With at least four seasons, it has one of the shortest growing seasons in the country, even over northern regions, with the number of growing days and the number of hours in the day. Within the seasons in each yard are microclimates determined by temperature, wind, rainfall, slope, rocks, and soil type. Using her own home and landscape as example, she showed the progression of plantings and their success or failure, and why. Trial and error provided answers as to what survived, or thrived. She stated that by providing a good environment, native plants moved in on their own. The program ended with pictures of various plants located in the microclimate they like, by season. Susan’s photography was excellent, with both plants and wildlife adding interest to her lecture.

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments Thanks to Ann Eagan and Hattie for these tonight. Irene Matthews volunteered for Nov, pending a check with Linda if someone already signed up.

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting 19 in attendance including 6 trainees who introduced themselves

7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Calendar Update---Ann Eagan stated that Old Town Shops are starting crafts/market fairs Nov 15
Blog Ideas---Now has a sitemeter with national hits
Venue Change---Checking Shepherd of the Hills church, fire stations were suggested
Membership Cards for 2011---$10 annual, Loni is checking for discounts at local vendors for cardholders
Voting for Officers—Jim opened floor for nominations; none given; said current board was open to continue their positions for next year; announced a new board position of historian taken by Val Bryant; she’s accepting photos and news items for scrapbook
Finance update– Ed Skiba
Balances in accounts---$424.46 in checking, $226.94 savings; presented first check to Hattie (UofA) of $787.84 for reimbursement of calendars; talked about use of funds and possibly closing the checking account as there is a fee for it

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith (see schedule below)—Note change in venue below for May-July, 2011
Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Julie Holmes/Molly Larsen---Molly asked market volunteers how the summer went with a positive response, even on slow market days; will add more days next summer on Sundays
Speakers Bureau–Jim Mast—This needs a coordinator; Hattie said she may replace the MG final test with a presentation to add speakers, currently there are 4 registered speakers
Home Show–Jim Mast—Faith Britton volunteered to coordinate this committee; Hattie will check first to see if the dome will be open then due to renovation
Coordination MG Projects–Linda Guarino---Hattie explained this committee and the form
Volunteer Support/Social – Hattie Braun/Crys Wells---Jim explained this committee and answered the question of 12 hrs volunteering and 6 hrs education to recertify annually.
December party---Val Bryant will host this in her home; it was decided to have it on Thursday, Dec 9, our normal meeting night, with a white elephant exchange. Details to follow.

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions
How to grow Indian paintbrush? Plant seeds with grama grass as it’s parasitic. How to treat powdery mildew and using cayenne pepper on ground to deter squirrels were other questions discussed.

Next meeting: November 11, 2010---2nd Thursday at Murdoch Center
Gardening with Leftovers
Speakers: Nancy and Jim DeBlois
Meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm.

Schedule for future meetings:
December Party - ?—Dec 9 at Val Bryant’s home
January 13, 2011 Bird Loving Plants – Bea Cooley, Audubon Society
February 10, 2011 Spiders of Winter – Freddi Steele, writer and former naturalist with the park service
March 10, 2011 Chaa Organic Farm in Belize - Linda Neff, anthropologist
April 14, 2011 Horticultural Therapy – Loni Shapiro
May, 2010 – Joan Abbott
June, 2011 – Art Babbott, Communitiy Markets
July, 2011 Sustainability – William Auberle

opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

Agenda Master Gardener Assoc. Meeting 10/14/10

Murdoch Community Center
210 E. Brannen
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Gardening with Native Plants
Susan Lamb Bean – writer and naturalist

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Calendar Update
Blog Ideas
Venue Change
Membership Cards for 2011
Voting for Officers
Finance update– Ed Skiba
Balances in accounts

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith (see schedule below)

Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Julie Holmes/Molly Larsen
Speakers Bureau–Jim Mast
Home Show–Jim Mast

Coordination MG Projects–Linda Guarino

Volunteer Support/Social – Hattie Braun/Crys Wells
December party

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions

Next meeting: November 11, 2010
Gardening with Leftovers
Speakers: Nancy and Jim DeBlois

Schedule for future meetings:
December Party - ?
January 13, 2011 Bird Living Plants – Bea Cooley, Audubon Society
February 10, 2011 Spiders of Winter – Freddi Steele, writer and former naturalist with the park service
March 10, 2011 Chaa Organic Farm in Belize - Linda Neff, anthropologist
April 14, 2011 Horticultural Therapy – Loni Shapiro
June 9, 2011 Sustainability – William Auberle

Continuing Education/Volunteer Opportunities:
Olivia White Hospice Garden Workday
October 21, 2010, 8am-12pm

Olivia White Hospice Garden Special Workday - bulb planting
October 23, 2010 9am-12pm

Olivia White Hospice Garden Workday
October 28, 2010 8am-12pm

The Arboretum at Flagstaff Fall Craft Classes
Dying for Yarn and The Art of Gourd - Saturday, 10/23/10 930am & 130pm

Flagstaff Flower & Garden Club / Pine Cone Workshop
Warner's Nursery, 11/1/10 5:30pm

Olivia White Hospice Garden Workday
November 4, 2010, 8am-12pm

Olivia White Hospice Garden Workday
November 11, 2010, 8am-12pm

Flagstaff Flower & Garden Club / Wreaths & Swags & Fireplace Mantels
Riordan Mansion 11/22/10 6:30pm

For details on above opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

4th Weed Pull at the Pioneer Museum

Greetings to all Master Gardeners, Pioneer Museum volunteers, and Members of the AZ Native Plant Society,

Thank you, everyone, so much for participating in our three previous weed pulls at the Pioneer Museum. Congratulations, you have eradicated 42 (yes, 42) huge bags of Diffuse Knapweed. It is amazing to look at the grounds today and remember what is looked like a month ago, when we began our project. It's so-o-o-o satisfying.

Please join us for the 4th weed pull at the Pioneer Museum on Hwy. 180 on Monday, October 11, from 9 am until noon. Come when you can, leave whenever.

Hattie Braun from Master Gardeners will provide bags, gloves and tools. Bring tools, if you have some favorites. Please wear sun protection and sturdy shoes. The AZNPS will provide water and snacks. Please come prepared for the weather.

Please contact Hattie Braun (MG) at 928-774-1868 x 170, or Dorothy Lamm (AZNPS) at 928-779-7296 to volunteer. Or just show up. The more the merrier.

Plans are to have a weed management plan in place so hopefully this will be the last of the knapweed pulls at least at the Pioneer Museum.

Hattie Braun
University of Arizona
Master Gardener Program Coordinator
Coconino County Cooperative Extension
2304 N. 3rd St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Phone: 928-774-1868 x 170
FAX: 928-774-1860

Meeting Reminder!

October meeting of the Coconino Master Gardener Association

When: Thursday, Oct 14th from 6:30-8:30
Where: Murdoch Community Center (please note new location)
Speaker: Susan Lamb Bean – Gardening with Native Plants
Susan is a local writer and naturalist.

A business meeting will follow the talk. Please join us!
All Master Gardeners certified or not are invited to attend the meeting and the community is invited to the lecture. The agenda will be posted on this blog after the Executive Board Meeing on Thursday, October 7th.

The Murdoch Center is located at 203 E. Brannen Ave. The building is on Butler Ave. about 1 ½ blocks west of Flagstaff Native Plant and Seed. You need to be on Brannen to enter the parking lot. From Butler Ave. turn north on S. Eldon (corner of Native Plant & Seed). Make a left onto Brannen Ave. The Murdoch Center parking will be on your left.


Hattie Braun
University of Arizona
Master Gardener Program Coordinator
Coconino County Cooperative Extension
2304 N. 3rd St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Phone: 928-774-1868 x 170
FAX: 928-774-1860

Fall Craft Classes at the Arboretum

The Beauty of Grasses
Day: Saturday,Oct.9 | Time: 9:30 – 12:30 PM | Fee: $25 members /$30 nonmembers (materials included)

Join Arboretum Research Botanist Sheila Murray for a class that focuses on grass identification as well as making straw ornaments. Tour the gardens and learn how to identify native and not-native species of grasses. Participants will collect grasses and create Scandinavian inspired straw ornaments for the holidays.

Pine Needle Basketry
Day: Saturday, Oct. 9| Time: 1:30 – 4:30 PM | Fee: $25 members /$30 nonmembers (materials included)

Crafter/artist Dawn Moffet of Clarkdale, AZ will teach particpants some basic weaving techniques that can be used to turn the ponderosa pine needles littering your yard into lovely baskets.

Dyeing for Yarn
Day: Saturday, Oct. 23| Time: 9:30 – 12:30 PM | Fee: $25 members /$30 nonmembers ($10 materials fee)

Prepare natural dyes from native plants with instructor Katie Flint. Participants will prepare natural wool in a variety of colors and learn basic crocheting techniques to begin granny squares for scarves, blankets, etc.

Art of the Gourd
Day: Saturday, Oct. 23| Time: 1:30 – 4:30 PM | Fee: $25 members /$30 nonmembers ($10 materials fee)
Find out how you can turn a squash into a work of art. Dawn Moffet will guide the class through the process of cleaning the outside and inside of a full-sized gourd. She will also demonstrate a variety of media that can be used for decoration. Participants and practice techniques on gourd ornaments.

Call 774-1442 x110 (Rachel) to register.

Warner's Grownup Fall Festival

On Saturday, October 2, from 10am-2pm, Warner's Nursery will hold a fall festival with seminars, contests, and food. Check out their web site for details. Some of the events are:
10am - Color Bowl Seminar
11am - Salsa Competition
12pm - Pizza
1pm - Spring Blooming Bulb Seminar
2pm - Canning Seminar
10am-2pm Giant Veggie Contest

Knapweed Weed Pull at the Pioneer Museum

Jeff Best with one large knapweed.

Greetings Master Gardeners and Members of the AZ Native Plant Society,

On Aug. 26 and again on Sept. 10, members of the Flagstaff Chapter of the AZNPS and the Master Gardeners combined forces to help the Pioneer Museum in its long fight against Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea diffusa). So far we have had the pleasure of removing 21 big bags of this stuff. One particular plant had an outside diameter of 4 feet!

Many thanks to the volunteers for pulling and digging, and for making a nice dent in the population.

Unfortunately, there are more weeds to be removed. Please join us for the 3rd weed pull at the Pioneer Museum on Hwy. 180: on Monday, Sept. 27 from 8am until noon. Come when you can, leave whenever.

The native geraniums, Scarlet Gilia, and Blue Grama grasses that struggled to survive are so happy that there are now fewer weeds drinking all their rain water, stealing all the sun's rays, and choking them out.

Winners of the raffle on Sept. 10 were Jeff Best, Michele Collins and Mea Stees. Thanks you for your help.

Hattie Braun from Master Gardeners will provide bags, gloves and tools. Bring tools, if you have some favorites. Please wear sun protection and sturdy shoes. The AZNPS will provide water and snacks. Please come prepared for the weather.

Please contact Hattie Braun (MG) at 928-774-1868 x 170, or Dorothy Lamm (AZNPS) at 928-779-7296 to volunteer. Or just show up. The more the merrier.

2011 Master Gardener Association Calendar

Beginning to look for a holiday gift for a friend who gardens, or looking for a way to support the master gardeners. We still have about 100 calendars left. Don't forget to purchase before they are all gone.

This is our first fundraiser and it contains photos of gardens, flowers, and art object from throughout the Flagstaff area. The photo above of the Bus Stop garden graces the cover.

We will probably do this again next year, so get busy and take those photos of your garden before the 1st frost comes. You may be selected for next years calendar. We are looking for digital photos that are landscape view, and at least 2000 pixtels. We need more pictures of gardens and less of individual flowers. Watch this blog around the 1st of April for requests for entries.

In the meantime stop at the County Extension Office and purchase your calendar for 2011. I will bring some to the annual Master Gardener picnic and recognition.

Thanks,
Loni Shapiro

Master Gardener Associaton Meeting Minutes 8/19/10

Master Gardener Meeting Minutes 8/19/10
Northland Hospice Office – 452 N. Switzer Canyon Drive
23 people signed in for the monthly meeting

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
The Bugs of August
Freddi Steele, former naturalist with the National Park Service
Freddi did a wonderful slide presentation of bugs commonly seen in Flagstaff gardens at this time of the year. She talked about what a bug is - hemipteria - as opposed to spiders, mites, centipedes, snails, etc.

Questions that a master gardener might ask regarding identification are:
Overall color, size, behavior
Was it alone? Where did you see it?
Wings? How many? How Held? Color?
Body? Smooth, fuzzy, color?
Head? Eye color? Antennae? Hairy? Mouth?
Legs? Any? How Many?

Freddi then did a show and tell with slides on day and night bugs.
Day
Honeybee, bee fly, hover fly, locust, grasshoppers, paper wasp, yellow jacket, holly hock weavil, aphids, etc.
Night
June bug, ambush bug, spinx moth, hummingbird moth, several crickets, katydid, etc.
Scary bugs
Centipeds, spiders

Several reference books were recommended:
Kaufman's Guide to Insects of North America
Audubon's Guide to Insects and Spiders of North America
Freddi has her presentation on Powerpoint so contact her if you need details or photos of a speciific bug.

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Thank you to Julie Holmes

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Finance update – Ed Skiba
Two accounts at Arizona Central Credit Union - checking (161.90) and savings (220.96). The credit union is charging over $9 a month so Ed will contact them and see if that can be waved. If not it may all become a savings account.
Beginning in 2011 – membership cards will be issues for those who pay dues. Jim Mast stated that it would all still be optional.
Calendar update – Loni Shapiro
$10 each available at meeting, conference, county fair, and Extension Office. Example available at the Wed. Markets with a sign stating purchase at County Extension. We are not a vendor and can't sell there. Calendars will be given to the Board of Supervisors, Warners, Violas, Sam Younger (Northland Hospice), Art Babbitt, and those contributing to the calendar. 3 will be used as door prizes (2 for conference and 1 for door prize for the MG Picnic). Hattie gave two to the Native Plant Contest. !4 give aways thus far.
Flagstaff Evening Garden club – Hattie Braun
Looking for a volunteer to take pictures at garden visits and write a brief summary for the blog (2011). Hattie creating a Google account to use for e-mails to remind people of the garden visits. Jean will continue to coordinate.
Telephone at the extension – Hattie Braun
Continues to be for the HOTLINE may be for the Assoc. at some point. Hattie reports that there will soon be extra phone lines as people are leaving the extension.
Because of the size of our group (growing each time) we had to look for a new site for the meetings. We will meet in Oct. & Nov. at the Murdock Center on Butler. Loni will send the address and directions for the next meeting in October. It will be posted on the blog about a week before the meeting and Hattie will send out her usual reminder.

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith
Speakers scheduled through February 2011. Check blog for updates. The column is going well but Dana can always use new writers.
Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Julie Holmes
We continue to participate in the Wednesday markets. We had 51 contacts on Wed., a display of noxious weeds, and, Loni brought some of her tomatoes which were a draw to get people to the table. Hattie has purchased a new canopy and table. For those working I suggest bringing a tablecloth, something to draw people in, and a comfortable chair. Hattie came at 330pm with the materials needed for the booth and helped us set-up.
Speakers Bureau – looking for someone to head up this program. We need more speakers before we advertise this program.
Home Show – looking for someone to coordinate the Home Show for 2011. The Home Show will need at least 3 speakers each day in order to get a free booth. There will be 3 programs offered each day and they can be repeats for the 3 days of the show. Contact Hattie if you are interested in doing this project, as she has the contact information.
Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino No update.
Volunteer Support/Social – Hattie Braun
Fall Recognition Picnic – Sept. 12 4-6pm, potluck. Extension to provide meat and those attending will bring either a side or dessert (Linda Guarino to advise). The invite is ready and will be sent out. Crys Wells is in charge of door prizes. If you have anything to contribute let her know. She took some iris from the OW Hospice Garden, and Val Bryant offered some seedlings.

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions
Joe Harte brought one of his potato oddities. We talked about potato fruit with seeds.

Next meeting: October 14, 2010
Native Plant Gardening Susan Lamb Bean

Speakers for future meetings:
September 12 Recognition Picnic
October 14 Native Plant Gardening Susan Lamb Bean
November 11 School Gardens Sue Norris, Lyndsey Langsdale
December (TBA) Holiday Party
January 13, 2011 Sustainability William Auberle
February 19, 2011 Chaa Organic Farm in Belize Linda Neff, anthropologist

Continuing Education opportunities and Events:
August 25 AZNPS Garden Contest Awards
August 27-28 11th Annual Arizona Highlands Garden Conference – Payson, AZ
August 29 AZNPS Garden Tours
September 8 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Buffalo Park
September 12 Coconino Master Gardener Association – Recognition Picnic
Sept. 14-Dec. 7 Fall Master Gardener Class
Oct 13-16 American Horticultural Therapy Association
Annual Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 16 13th Annual School Garden Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 14 Coconino MG Association Meeting
Nov 11 Coconino MG Association Meeting

For details on above opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

AZNPS Garden Competitions for 2010

Wed, August 25th, 7:00 pm - 2010 Flagstaff Garden Competition SLIDESHOW and EXTRAVAGANZA! This will take place at the Federated Community Church, 400 W. Aspen Street (downtown, right across from the library). We will show slides of the twelve gardens entered in this years competiton, featuring photographs by celebrated and published outdoor photographer Tom Bean. As well, we will hand out prizes to the winners in the two categories: Native Plant and Edible Garden. It is a great way for you to view all the gardens and decide which ones you want to go on for the tour. Many plant-related groups will have tables at the event with info and items for sale. We will have light refreshments- you can bring a drink or dessert if that is something you want to do but by no means do you have to. Please come to this event and support the AZNPS! Seeing these gardens is inspiring, heartwarming, and a visual treat.

Sunday, August 29th- PUBLIC GARDEN TOUR! The hours are from 10-2. This year we are charging $5 per person for a map, which comes with a free raffle ticket. This is the only fundraiser the Flagstaff Chapter of the AZNPS has. Maps will be available after August 20th at Warners Nursery, Native Plant and Seed, Winter Sun Trading Company, and on the day of the tour at the downtown Community Farmers Market (parkinglot of City Hall, Sunday 8-12). This is truly a community-building, fun, informative and thought-provoking day for the whole family. Please come to this event and support the AZNPS!

The hours are from 10-2. This year we are charging $5 per person for a map, which comes with a free raffle ticket. This is the only fundraiser the Flagstaff Chapter of the AZNPS has. Maps will be available after August 20th at Warners Nursery, Native Plant and Seed, Winter Sun Trading Company, and on the day of the tour at the downtown Community Farmers Market (parkinglot of City Hall, Sunday 8-12). This is truly a community-building, fun, informative and thought-provoking day for the whole family. Please come to this event and support the AZNPS!

Best,

The 2010 Flagstaff Garden Competition Committee:

Susan Lamb Bean, Chair and Judge
Dorothy Lamm, Organizer
Jessa Fisher, Judge
Jan Busco, Judge
Hattie Braun, Judge

Fall Master Gardener Class

We will be offering an evening Master Gardener class this fall. It starts Sept. 14 and runs through Dec. 7.

Registration is now open. Class will meet on Tuesday evenings 6-9 pm at NAU, School of Forestry room #133. If you would like to join the class contact me for a brochure and registration.

Please pass this information on to everyone you think might be interested in the class.

For registration or information contact me at: (928-774-1868 or hbraun@cals.arizona.edu)
Brochure attached:
Thanks - Hattie

Hattie Braun
University of Arizona
Master Gardener Program Coordinator
Coconino County Cooperative Extension
2304 N. 3rd St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Calendars for 2011

Our 2011 Calendars have arrived for our fundraiser for the year. The photo above of the Bus Stop Garden graces the cover, and in addition there are 12 beautiful photos of gardens, flowers, and hardscape from all over Flagstaff.

The calendar is printed on high quality heavy paper. They are available for purchase at the county extension office for $10 each, and some (25) will be available at our next meeting so bring your checkbooks. We have a limited supply so shop early. We will be selling the last 100 at the Highlands Garden Conference in Payson on August 28th.

Don't forget our next Master Gardener Association Meeting on August 19, at 6:30pm. Our featured speaker this month is Freddi Steele, on the "Bugs of August". Follow this blog next week for the agenda.

Loni Shapiro
Coconino County MG Association
Secretary

MG Association Meeting 7/15/10

Master Gardener Meeting Minutes 7/15/10
Northland Hospice Office
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Northern Arizona Microclimates
Lee Born
Lee started by defining microclimate. It’s the climate of the airspace near the surface of the earth. This varies dramatically over the Flagstaff area, but 500 feet above us, there is no different. Microclimate could also be defined as the. climate on a small scale. The major players in determining microclimates are: sun vs shade, directional exposure, slopes, air circulation, wind exposure, elevation, topography. Together these factors explain why the Fort Valley area is colder than other parts of Flagstaff (cool air drains off the Peaks into the basin) and why the Banana Belt is warmer (heat off rocks of Mt. Elden warms nearby area). The major factor in our weather is the Mogollon Rim, which is why we have colder weather and more precipitation than other parts of Arizona.

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Thank you to Andrea and Galen Guerrette

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Finance update – Ed Skiba reported that we have over $400 in our bank account. This is largely due to a generous donation from the Flagstaff Evening Garden Club, which is combining efforts with our MG Association.
Calendar update – Jim invited everyone to look at the proofs. All attendees agreed that the photos were beautiful and thought the price was reasonable.
Flagstaff Evening Garden club – Hattie will send emails regarding future tours.
Telephone at the extension – Hattie will work on getting a message on her extra line. Her extension is now 170 and the hotline is 190.
Highlands Garden Conference – Beverly Emerson attended the meeting to encourage Flagstaff gardeners to attend the conference, which is August 28 at the Casino in Payson with a garden tour the day before. Rates increase after July 30, so register soon if you plan to attend. Jim also asked Beverly to comment on the plant sale in Gila County because we may want to have one. Beverly said plant donations came from many gardeners, who also shopped at garage sales for garden related items to resale. Also tool sharpening was a big money-maker at the sale.

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith
Speakers scheduled through January 2011. Check blog for updates. Dana has columns ready through the end of September, but always would appreciate more writers.
Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Julie Holmes
Master Gardeners are making many contacts at the Wednesday markets. Only one additional volunteer was needed and was recruited.
Speakers Bureau
Need more speakers available
Home Show – We need to give 3 talks per day in exchange for a free booth. There will be more activity on this next year
Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino
Working on finalizing list for 2010. Two new projects need assistance. One is Ponderosa Pines; see blog for more information. Michele Lytle gave a brief description of Wayne’s house, an approved MG project that needs a new supervisor.
Volunteer Support/Social – The Fall picnic will be Sept. 12 from 4-6 pm. The MG association will provide the meat, attendees should bring a side dish to share (preferably something from your garden).

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions
One question about why zucchini fruits were dying. Hattie said they were not getting pollinated, it’s possible to do this by hand with a paint brush. Jim Mast said his feverfew plants were doing very well this year.

Next meeting: August 19, 2010 “Bugs” by Freddie Steele

Speakers for future meetings:
September 12 Recognition Picnic 4-6pm Potluck
October 14 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
November 11 School Gardens Sue Norris, Lyndsey Langsdale
December Holiday Party

Submitted by Linda Guarino 7/25/10

Master Gardener Association Meeting 7/15/10

Master Gardener Meeting Agenda 7/15/10
Northland Hospice Office – 452 N. Switzer Canyon Drive
(Parking in front of the building or in the lot just north of it.)
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
General Announcements
Maricopa County MGs - Jim
Warner’s 10% Day for Hospice - Linda
Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Northern Arizona’s Microclimates
Lee Born

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Andrea Guerrette

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Finance update – Ed Skiba
Calendar update – Jim Mast
Update on Flagstaff Evening Garden club – Hattie Braun
Update on Telephone at the extension – Hattie Braun
Highlands Garden Conference/Payson – Beverly Emerson

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith
Speakers scheduled through January 2011. Check blog for updates.
Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Molly Larsen
Need volunteers for the Wed. markets
Speakers Bureau
Need more speakers available
Home Show
Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino
Michele Lytle – Wayne’s House
Ponderosa Pines Nursing Home looking for a master gardener volunteer (see blog for details)
Volunteer Support/Social – Hattie Braun
Fall Recognition Picnic – Sept. 12

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions

Next meeting: August 19, 2010
Bugs Freddie Steele

Speakers for future meetings:
September 12 Recognition Picnic
October 14 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
November 11 School Gardens Sue Norris, Lyndsey Langsdale
December Holiday Party

Continuing Education opportunities and Events:
July 17 10% of Proceeds at Warners Donated to the Olivia White Gardens
July 17 Garden Club Visit – Judith Chaddock’s Garden
July 17 Full Moon Soiree – Arboretum at Flagstaff
July 18 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Kelly Canyon

July 20 AZ Native Plant Society – talk
Ethnobotany of the Hualapai
July 25 AZ Native Plant Society – walk
Elden Pipeline Trail
July 30-Aug.1 NAU Sustainable Communities Program
Permaculture Design Course
August 4 AZNPS Garden Contest Deadline
August 7 Garden Club Visit – garden of Christine Orr
August 8 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Little Springs Fern Mountain
August 12 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Griffin Springs
August 19 Coconino MG Association Meeting
August 25 AZNPS Awards
August 27-28 11th Annual Arizona Highlands Garden Conference – Payson, AZ
August 29 AZNPS Garden Tours
September 8 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Buffalo Park
September 12 Master Gardener Recognition Picnic
Oct 13-16 American Horticultural Therapy Association
Annual Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 16 13th Annual School Garden Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 14 Coconino MG Association Meeting
Nov 11 Coconino MG Association Meeting

For details on above opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

Looking for a Volunteer

Joleen Kaye a Navajo woman who works as a Senior Companion at Ponderosa Pines nursing home is looking for someone to help get some gardening started at the facility again. They have some large pots and a raised bed on their outdoor patio, that were planted several years ago. Joleen comes several times a week and spends time with Native American residents who don't speak English. If you think you might be interested in helping please contact her 928-856-1032. They do have an activities director, so it might be just a short term project in getting things started. We did not discuss funding which might be an issue, but Viola's or Warner's may be willing to help with a few plants. We also just had a plant sale at hospice and have some leftovers that you could have. I did an inservice for the Senior Companion program and Warner's gave us some plants to work with. If you have any questions you can also call me. This is a great project to provide activity/gardening for those in need and provides another opportunity to give master gardeners visibility in the community.

Thanks,
Loni Shapiro
cnslds@q.com

MG Association Minutes 6/17/10

Master Gardener Meeting Minutes 6/17/10
Northland Hospice Office
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Volunteering Through Gardening Around the World: experiences highlighted in Lesotho, Malawi, Australia, and Costa Rica
Julie Lancaster
Julie talked about her experiences with the Peace Corp in Africa (Lesotho) and with an organization called WWOOF (Started in the UK in 1971 and has since become an international movement that is helping people share more sustainable ways of living.) in Malawi, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and Costa Rica. In each case she was working on gardening throughout the world. She was learning and providing education to people from those countries. WWOOF provides a great opportunity to travel while helping others with organic gardening. They usually provide accommodations and food in exchange for work – variable lengths of stay. Contact them for more information at: www.wwoof.org

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Thank you to Molly Larsen

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Vice President – Steve Shield has resigned due to a move to Yavapai County. Jim Mast has appointed Crys Wells to fill his position.
Finance update – Ed Skiba and Jim Mast will open an account at AZ Central Credit Union. Steve Shields has added a check for $50 and we have another membership from Bob Cooper. Exact deposit will be reported at the next meeting.
Calendar update/Loni- Winning photos circulated. Calendars should be ready by August. – proofs in July. Fee will be decided when calendars arrive. The Extension is supporting the start-up costs and taking 9%. This should be a profitable endeavor with 250 ordered -75 break even.
Flagstaff Evening Garden club /Hattie– Jean to continue to coordinate. Hattie to set-up an e-mail list and find someone for each visit to take a headcount. Loni to put on blog and in the newspaper. Jean to remain the phone contact until phone is set-up at the extenson.
Telephone at the extension – Hattie has an extra line that is currently used for the Hotline and the association could be added along with the Garden Club.

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith
Speakers scheduled through January 2011. Check blog for updates.
Looking for writers for the column.
Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Molly Larsen
Worked the 1st 2 Sunday markets with good visitation.
Need volunteers for the Wed. markets – 1st and 3rd Wed. 4-7pm– dlipboard circulated for volunteers. Art Babbitt would like to see us there on Sundays – will let us know.
Hattie will have a tent shelter available for set-up at these markets. May have people pick up with a key from the office.
Speakers Bureau
Need more speakers available
Hattie working on getting someone from Toastmasters to talk about speaking and will do tech training for those interested (PowerPoint)
Dana volunteered – Hattie will send application
Application on the blog
Home Show
Free booth in exchange for 3 speakers each day and advertising
Need speakers/topics for the Home Show – at least 3 for each day
Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino
Nothing new to report. Would like more volunteers on committee. Working on
finalizing list for 2010.
Volunteer Support/Social - Crys Wells
Update on volunteer/education hours
People are asking for total hours reported. Crys is not set up for this so you need to keep your own records with a calendar. If you are desperate for numbers for May-June contact her by e-mail for totals. This will only be available for the next month – after that you are on your own.
Scheduling fall recognition picnic – September 12 – Hattie to reserve picnic shelter.

8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions
Several had questions about ground squirrels. Some using moth balls with limited success. Hattie recommended checking the eXtension web site (www.extension.org) for current info on how to control. Info on traps can be found at the Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management (www.icwdm.org). For local help contact Dan Caputo one of our former speakers - Arizona Wildlife Consultants – 928-864-6768.
Another question about fruit trees budding but not setting fruit – suggested late frost may have killed buds. A suggestion to hang red Christmas ornaments before fruit sets to fool birds.
Third question about the best grass in light of new fees on water. Hattie said that Kentucky Bluegrass is the only walkable grass, others are attractive (Blue Gramma Grass, fescue), but clumpy and not lawnlike.

Next meeting: July 15, 2010
Microclimates and Gardening in Flagstaff Lee Born

Speakers for future meetings:
August 19 Bugs Freddie Steele
September 12 Recognition Picnic
October 14 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
November 11 School Gardens Sue Norris, Lyndsey Langsdale
December Holiday Party

0

The Arboretum Full Moon Soiree

ARBORETUM SUMMER SOIRÉE

Enjoy an evening of fine dining in the gardens at The Arboretum.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff’s 2010 Summer Soirée will take place on the evening of Saturday, July 17. The 2010 event includes a silent and live auction, with the feature painting donated by renowned Navajo artist, Baje Whitethorne, Sr. Whitethorne will be present at the event. Auction items from local artists and businesses can be viewed in advance on The Arboretum’s website, thearb.org.
New this year is the “Remembrance Photograph” station as guests enter, sponsored by Cameron + Kelly Studios. Dinner is provided by Thornager’s Catering, featuring carving stations of smoked turkey and grilled leg of lamb. Local jazz trio, Zazu, will be the musical entertainment. Bill Blume, always a crowd pleaser, will serve as the auctioneer once again.

The evening in the gardens will be relaxing and entertaining with the San Francisco Peaks as a backdrop. Appetizers and a silent auction begin at 5:30 p.m. Dinner and the live auction begin at 6:30 p.m. By attending The Summer Soiree and contributing to the fundraising activities, you are helping to sustain the beautiful gardens and supporting important programming that visitors continue to learn from and enjoy. Please call to reserve tickets ($100 each) or sponsor a table at the $1000 level. For more information, please call (928) 774-1442, ext. 124 or email Elizabeth.Vogler@thearb.org.

The Summer Soirée is sponsored by Morning Dew Landscaping and Viola’s Flower Garden. Beverages provided by Pesto Brother’s Piazza and Nackard Beverage Company. Flowers donated by Splendid Things.

The Arboretum is a botanical garden, research center, and nature preserve dedicated to educating the public about the plants and plant communities of the Colorado Plateau. It is located four miles south of Route 66 on scenic Woody Mountain Road in West Flagstaff. The Arboretum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., April through October. General admission is regularly $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $3 for children 3-17 and free for children under the age of 3. For more information, visit thearb.org or call (928) 774-1442.

Coconino MG Meeting Agenda 6/17/10

Northland Hospice Office – 452 N. Switzer Canyon Drive
(Parking in front of the building or in the lot just north of it.)
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speakers

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
Volunteering Through Gardening Around the World: experiences highlighted in Lesotho, Malawi, Australia, and Costa Rica
Julie Lancaster

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Molly Larsen

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Vice President
Finance update – Ed Skiba
Calendar update
Flagstaff Evening Garden club
Telephone at the extension

8:00pm-8:20pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith
Speakers scheduled through January 2011. Check blog for updates.
Community Programs
Flagstaff’s Community Market – Molly Larsen
Need volunteers for the Wed. markets
Speakers Bureau
Need more speaker available
Need speakers/topics/Hattie working on getting someone from Toastmasters to
talk about speaking and will do tech training for those interested (PowerPoint)
Home Show
Free booth in exchange for 3 speakers each day and advertising
Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino
Volunteer Support/Social - Crys Wells
Update on volunteer/education hours
Scheduling fall recognition picnic – Sept. 12 or 19
8:20pm – 830pm What is it? Garden Problems/Questions

Next meeting: July 15, 2010
Microclimates and Gardening in Flagstaff Lee Born

Speakers for future meetings:
August 19 Bugs Freddie Steele
September (12 or 19) Recognition Picnic
October 14 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
November 11 School Gardens Sue Norris, Lyndsey Langsdale
December Holiday Party


Continuing Education opportunities and Events:
June 20 Native Plant Society walk – Harte Prairie
June 23 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Elden Pipline
June 24 Workday at Olivia White Gardens 8am-12pm
June 26 Hummingbird Festival
Arboretum at Flagstaff
June 26 Plant & Garden Sale – Olivia White Hospice Home 10am-12pm
July 1 Workday at Olivia White Gardens – 8am-12pm
July 7 Flagstaff Wednesday Eastside Community Market Begins
July 8 Workday at Olivia White Gardens – 8am-12pm
July 10 Monsoon Madness – Plant & Garden Sale
Prescott Extension Office
July 13 MG Association Executive Committee Meeting
July 15 Workday Olivia White Gardens
July 15 Coconino MG Association Meeting
July 17 10% of Proceeds at Warners Donated to the Olivia White Gardens
July 18 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Kelly Canyon
July 20 AZ Native Plant Society – talk
Ethnobotany of the Hualapai
July 25 AZ Native Plant Society – walk
Eldon Pipeline Trail
July 30-Aug.1 NAU Sustainable Communities Program
Permaculture Design Course
August 8 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Little Springs Fern Mountain
August 12 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Griffin Springs
August 19 Coconino MG Association Meeting
August 27-28 11th Annual Arizona Highlands Garden Conference – Payson, AZ
September 8 AERA Summer Plant Walks – Buffalo Park
Oct 13-16 American Horticultural Therapy Association
Annual Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 16 13th Annual School Garden Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 14 Coconino MG Association Meeting
Nov 11 Coconino MG Association Meeting

For details on above opportunities check out the blog – coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com

LaPlaza Viejo Gateway Clean-up

Hi MGs and future MGs – La Plaza Vieja Gateway Beautification Project (aka the Xeriscape Garden in front of Furniture Barn) needs some general cleanup and sprucing up. This is a project that Master Gardeners helped plant last year.

The cleanup day is:

Saturday, June 19th from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Site: SW Corner of Milton & Clay

Kim Sharp from the City of Flagstaff and members of La Plaza Vieja neighborhood association will also be there to help. If you can join us, please do. You will need the usual: gloves, a hat, and sunblock. I’ll bring water and some shovels and weeding tools.

Hattie

Garden Club Update from Jean Hockman

June 19: Visit the garden of Gail and Grady Bell
July 17: Visit the garden of Judith Chaddock
August 7: Visit the garden of Christine Orr

Our garden club will visit the garden of Gail and Grady Bell on Saturday, June 19 at 10 a.m.
When: Saturday, June 19, 10 a.m.

What: Garden Visit. Gail writes:

My garden is a work in progress which I am sure will never be finished. We live in the country on 2 1/2 acres which over 22 years we have planted with about 200 trees and bushes. We have raised beds with railroad ties that contain flowers and some vegetables with a lot of flagstone used for patios and paths, with an irrigation system as complex as a small city.

Where: 5455 Snow Bowl Drive

Driving Directions: Ttake Highway 89 North past the mall about 3 miles. Turn left on Sunset which is just before the trailer park and across from Titan Propane Gas. If you go through the lights and pass the Silver Saddle Trading post you have gone too far. Turn Right on Silver Saddle, Left on Forest, Right on Ponderosa and Left on Snow Bowl Drive. The address is 5455 Snow Bowl Drive which is the third house on the right. It is best to park anywhere below the small hill. Parking on the grass is okay.

Phone 814-2296


Mark your calendars now for these scheduled events:

When: Saturday, July 17, 10 a.m.
What: Visit the garden of Judith Chaddock
Judith writes: After completing the Master gardener class I had my blue grass lawn removed and a 2500 gallon rain water tank installed to water native drought resistant flowering plants .
Where: 610 Dohmen Dr.
Driving Directions: Take Lake Mary road go past the Chevron, Dohmen is on the right about 1/4 mile from Chevron 610 is the 5th house on the right.
Phone: 928 779 3552 or 699 0896

August 7: Visit the garden of Christine Orr

Our group meets when a member invites us to his/her garden, arranges a trip, or plans a gardening event. To extend an invitation contact Garden@npgcable.com or phone Jean Hockman at 526 5813.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jean Hockman

Native Plant Society Monthy Walk and Talk

Greetings Plant Enthusiasts!!!

Evening Program Talk-Tuesday June 15:
JOINT AZNPS/HERBARIUM POTLUCK AT 6:00 IN OUR USUAL MEETING ROOM TO HONOR DAVID HAMMOND.

Please join us to honor David, who started working at the Deaver Herbarium in 1994 after a long and distinguished career at the New York Botanical Garden. David has been the Treasurer of the Flagstaff Chapter of AZNPS for many years. Following the potluck, Susan Bean will talk on “So much more than trees,” the whole picture of the forest, understory included, with highlights from her flower almanac. Climate and microclimates will be discussed, also.

Field Trip-Sunday June 20: The field trip will be in conjunction with The Nature Conservancy’s Guided Nature Walk at Hart Prairie Preserve. These ninety-minute walks offer a wonderful opportunity to learn about the wildflowers and forest ecology of the Bebb’s willow community where AZNPS is conducting the second year of its PAPAZ project. After the TNC walk we will also wander through the adjacent Fern Mountain Botanical Area of the Coconino NF.

Evening Program Talk-Tuesday July 20, 7pm: Carrie Cannon, Ethnobotanist from Central Washington University, will discuss her thesis research of the ethnobotany of the Hualapai. Carrie has done many projects with the Hualapai elders and youth, including a recipe book, playing cards representing the plants, and agave roasts.

Field Trip-Sunday, July 25: Carrie will lead a plant walk at Elden Pipeline trail, in the “banana belt” of Flagstaff, where plants overlap with those on the Hualapai Reservation. She will discuss Hualapai names and uses of plants found here such as cliffrose, agave, and yucca.

Wednesday, August 25: Flagstaff Garden Competition Extravaganza 2010 (Awards Presentation). For flyer describing the competition, click here.

Sunday August 29: Flagstaff Garden Competition Tour of all the gardens.

Field Guide to Forest and Mountain Plants of Northern Arizona:

Judy Springer, Mark Daniels, and Mare Nazaire, the authors of the 650-pageField Guide to Forest and Mountain Plants of Northern Arizona. The field guide, published by the Ecological Restoration Institute at Northern Arizona University is designed for professional and amateur botanists, and anyone else who has an interest in the region’s rich diversity of plants. The book sells for $30 at the NAU Bookstore or online at www.nau.edu/bookstore

This is the first book of its kind for the higher-elevation ecosystems of northern and eastern Arizona. It includes information about more than 1,400 species of conifers, flowering trees and shrubs, grasses and grass-like plants, wildflowers, cacti and agaves, ferns and fern allies, and aquatics.

Nearly every species entry has a botanical illustration to help identify the plant. In addition, there are 288 beautiful, full-color photographs of various plant species. A complete index of both common and scientific names helps users navigate the book with ease.

“I hope the field guide will advance our understanding and appreciation of native plant species in our backyards and in the forests that surround us as we are faced with unprecedented challenges in this century, including the effects of projected climate change on the environment,” said ERI plant ecologist, Judy Springer.

The field guide also offers a snapshot of the geology, human history, and climatic events that have shaped the region from the San Francisco Peaks, along the Mogollon Rim, and into the White Mountains. Photo: Potentilla thurberi (scarlet cinquefoil) by Max Licher, Field Guide to Forest and Mountain Plants of Northern Arizona.

All talks are the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm (unless we note a time or date change). They are held in room 328 of the NAU biology building (building #21). Park in the NAU biology building parking lot at the corners of Franklin and Beaver Streets (free after 4:30). Enter the biology building through the door behind the bicycle racks, at the southeast corner of the building. Immediately after entering two sets of double doors go up the staircase to the third floor. The room is past the Deaver Herbarium, down the hall.

Coconino MG Association Minutes 5/20/10

Master Gardener Meeting Minutes 5/20/10
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda and upcoming educational opportunities. Introduction of speaker

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
All Plants are Medicine
Susan B. Collins
Susan’s talk was about the many medicinal uses/benefits of plants, flowers and trees. It included medicinal uses of a variety of local plants/weeds such as dandelion and mullein. She suggested several books for resources from Rodale Publishing. Watch for her articles in the Saturday Master Gardener Column about specific herbs.

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Thank you to Ed Skiba

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Change in meeting times beginning October/November to accommodate the Audubon Society and the Westerners. This is a trial for the end of the year to see if more people can attend. The meetings will be on the 2nd Thursday instead of the 3rd of each month.
Standing Committees added to By-laws (handout circulated and will be posted on website under documents and forms). One major change was that Social was added to the
Volunteer committee instead of Continuing Education.
Finance – Ed reported $60 in voluntary dues collection and $15 for food. Opening an account has been difficult due to balance limits, and fees required. One bank wanted many documents to provide a free account (including a 501C). Jim will check with Yavapai County to see how they manage their account. Ed collected more membership fees. Amount to be reported later. He may now be able to open an account.
Calendar update Loni: Plan to order next week. Extension will pay the initial outlay for the calendars ($3.75 each plus shipping). Voting was completed on the last 4 photos. The cover will be the Bus Stop Garden from the extension. Other photos include flowers, a vegetable garden, winter scene, home summer flower garden, animals, butterflies, and a dragonfly. Thank you to all who entered their photos. We hope to have the calendars ready by August to sell at the Highlands Garden Conference. Probable cost $10.

8:00pm-8:30pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education – No report. Check blog and the bottom of the agenda for programs.

Community Programs-Molly Larsen & Julie Holmes
Sunday Community Market
Plan is to do the 2 first Sunday markets and possibly 2 monthly Wed. markets.
May 30 – Galen & Andrea Guerrette and Irene Matthews
June 6 – Molly Larsen and Ann Eagan
Will work at next meeting on the Wednesday markets.
Speakers Bureau, Home Show
Need speakers/topics/Hattie working on getting someone from Toastmasters to
talk about speaking and will do tech training for those interested (PowerPoint).
WE NEED SPEAKERS. THINK ABOUT SIGNING UP. THIS IS ANOTHER WAY TO SHOW WE ARE GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY (COUNTY SUPERVISORS).

Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino
Change in application form with a question of how the project will be financed. New form was circulated and is now on the blog under Documents and Forms.
Linda, Galen & Loni working on updating list of current projects that will be available forMG trainees and anyone else interested. When done they will be posted on the Blog.
Approved project- Canyon Chapel – contact Ed Skiba who briefly reviewed the project at his church on 4th St. He is willing to mentor a couple of master gardeners to one. (trustacctservices@npgcable.com)

Volunteer Support/Social – No report

Next meeting: June 17, 2010
Speaker: Volunteering Through Gardening Around the World: experiences highlighted in Lesotho, Malawi, Australia, and Costa Rica Julie Lancaster

Speakers for future meetings:
July 15 Microclimates & Gardening Lee Born
August 19 Bugs Freddie Steele
September Recognition Picnic
October 14 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
November 11 School Gardens Sue Norris, Lyndsey Langsdale
December Holiday Party

First Sunday Community Market 5/30/10

Welcome back local food lovers!

We're thrilled to begin Flagstaff Community Market's 10th season! We will be in the same location as last year: City Hall parking lot Sunday mornings from 8:00AM to noon. The City is finishing some work near the lot, so please be patient as we work around their job site.

Many of our vendors will be returning to offer fresh regional produce and prepared foods- Chino Valley Farm, Rainbow Valley, Moonrise Farm, Flying M Ranch, Eagle Eye Honey, Shady Acres, Summer Place Pecans, Cafe de Dona Ella and more. We also have quite a few new vendors this year: Good Water Farm, Seacat Gardens, & Ridge View Farms selling free range chicken & others!

Farmers are selling food they grow that is currently in season in Arizona. By eating what's in season, we're helping support local growers and greatly reducing our impact on the environment.

Art, Heather, and Lila Babbott

New Community Garden in Sunnyside!!

Are you interested in growing your own fresh vegetables this summer in the Sunnyside Neighborhood? Have you always wanted to garden but just don’t have the yard space? Are you new to gardening and want a little help and support from the community? Well come on down to the new community garden on Izabel Street!

Located on public property on Izabel Street, just north of the BMX/skate park, this garden includes individual/family gardening plots, kids gardening beds, raised beds, permaculture design, composting, a storage shed, tools, and rainwater harvesting. This garden is great for individuals or families looking for a place to grow their own food this summer, or a school or any other group looking to take on a great summer project.

A small seasonal fee ($30) will be collected from the gardeners that will provide water, insurance, tools and building materials. Gardeners can also take part in monthly garden parties, workshops and garden maintenance activities.

Space is limited and plots will be assigned on a first come first serve basis. Our first organizational meeting will be Sunday, May 30th, at 4pm, so if you are interested or need any further information, please contact the garden coordinator as soon as possible.

Thank you,
Lyndsey

Garden Coordinator
Lyndsey Langsdale
775-815-1113
928-774-5813
ltlangsdale@yahoo.com

2010 AZ Native Plant Society Contest

Master Gardener Column 4/17/2010

Despite late-lingering snowbanks and being batted about by spring winds like birdies on a badminton court, Flagstaff gardeners are suddenly out in force. Eternal optimists, they are already swarming local nurseries wearing sunhats and ferrying pots of native perennials, vegetable starts, and new gardening gloves to the registers. Rakes have been fetched from garages, along with pruning shears and trowels. Breeze-blown but eager, gardeners all over Flagstaff and beyond are bravely clearing away winter-killed stalks and broken branches and setting out peas and cabbage.

Whether you are among these early enthusiasts--or you need to wait a few weeks because of your particular location--the Arizona Native Plant Society (AZNPS) invites you to enter our annual Flagstaff Garden Competition. The deadline for entering the contest is August 4. Judges will schedule a one-hour visit to each garden during the weekend of August 14 and 15. There will be an awards "Extravaganza" on August 25 and a public tour of all the gardens on Sunday, August 29.

Simply entering the Flagstaff Garden Competition can liberate the imagination and fire up a lot of energy. When the reality of showing your garden to strangers sinks in, determination surfaces and creativity flows. Long-neglected "issues" such as pile of old plastic pots or the overdue need to prune a dogwood are suddenly resolved. What at first seems like a lark undertaken because a neighbor says you really should becomes a closer observation of the weather, a more attentive nurturing of plants, and a greater clarity about what you know and don't yet know. If you remain unconvinced about entering, Dorothy Lamm's lovely exhibit on the Garden Competition--on display at the main Flagstaff Public Library through April--may convince you to take an active part in this delightful annual event.

This year, the Flagstaff Garden Competition's two categories are Native Plant Gardens and Edible Landscapes (vegetables, herbs, and other edibles). Of course, the former should have a good majority of plants native to northern Arizona. Native plant gardens should also be pollinator-friendly, with lots of flowers appropriately placed in sun or shade and absolutely no use of pesticides. Judges will also consider color and form, hardscaping and paths, and special features such as ponds and sculptures. Edible landscapes should produce food for many weeks and employ water conservation strategies such as runoff catchments and mulch. In fact, judges will look for water-wise techniques in all gardens as well as designs that are appropriate to their sites' exposure to sun, shade, and wind.

The Flagstaff Garden Awards Extravaganza will take place in Rees Hall at the Federated Church on Wednesday, August 25. After a potluck and a slideshow of all the gardens, winners will receive gift certificates from local nurseries, and there will be a raffle of one of the latest books on native plants as well as memberships in plant-related organizations.

The grand finale is a tour of all the gardens on Sunday, August 29. Donations for the tour will be gratefully accepted. The tour is a feast for the eye but also the heart. Gardeners can see how others succeed in circumstances similar to their own, from the banana belt below Mount Elden to the frost-prone fields of Baderville. With such a variety of mini-climates in Flagstaff and its environs, we often get the best ideas about successful gardening from those who've succeeded in locations similar to our own.

But that Sunday is also a day of stories--of a helpful neighbor, of a source of cuttings or flagstone, of chronic frost or a sudden onslaught of grasshoppers and the inspired strategies to cope with them. Some gardeners also speak joyfully of the healing and happiness they have found in their gardens.

This year, the Flagstaff garden competition is sponsored by the Arboretum at Flagstaff, the Arizona Native Plant Society, the Ecological Restoration Institute at Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Native Plant and Seed, and Warner's Nursery.

Again, the deadline for entries is Wednesday, August 4. To enter, e-mail Jessa Fisher at nightbloomingcactus@yahoo.com (preferred) or give her a call at (928)814-2644.

Flyer attached:

Susan Lamb is a local writer and naturalist (www.susanlamb.net). Dana Prom Smith, a Master Gardener is the coordinating editor for the Master Gardener Column. He can be contacted at stpauls@npgcable.com. For more information about the Master Gardener Program, call Hattie Braun at 774-1868 ext.17 or visit our Web Site: highelevationgardening.arizona.edu.)

Coconino MG Association Meeting

Master Gardener Meeting Agenda 5/20/10
Northland Hospice Office – 452 N. Switzer Canyon Drive
(Parking in front of the building or in the lot just north of it.)
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speakers

6:40pm-7:30pm Continuing Education
All Plants are Medicine
Susan B. Collins

7:30pm – 7:45pm Refreshments
Ed Skiba

7:45pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:45pm-8:00pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Change in meeting times beginning October/November
Standing Committees added to Bi-laws (handout circulated and will be posted on website under by-laws)
Finance - Bank account, dues collection, donations jar
Calendar fundraising update (Loni will circulate photo selections)
8:00pm-8:30pm Committee Reports:
Continuing Education-Dana Prom Smith
Speakers scheduled through January 2011. Check blog for updates.
Community Programs-Steve Shields
Flagstaff’s Community Market
1st & 2nd Sundays/all Wednesdays beginning in July
Speakers Bureau, Home Show
Need speakers/topics/Hattie working on getting someone from Toastmasters to talk about speaking and will do tech training for those interested (PowerPoint)
Coordination MG Projects –Linda Guarino
Change in application form
Working on updating list of current projects
Approved project- Canyon Chapel – contact Ed Skiba
Volunteer Support/Social - Crys Wells

Next meeting: June 17, 2010
Speaker: Volunteer Through Gardening Around the World: experiences highlighted in Lesotho, Malawi,l Australia, and Costa Rica Julie Lancaster

Speakers for future meetings:
July 15 Microclimates & Gardening Lee Born
August 19 Bugs Freddie Steele
September Recognition Picnic
October 21 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
November ?
December Holiday Party

Continuing Education opportunities and Events:
May 21-23 NAU Sustainable Communities Program
Lessons From Puebloan Culture

May 22 Garden Club Annual Plant Exchange
Home of Jacki Hainsworth

May 22 Building a Rock Garden & Water Feature Workshops
Arboretum at Flagstaff
May 23 Earth Spirit Essential Oils Class
Floral/Water Elements
May 25 Vegetable Gardening in Flagstaff Jim Mast
East Flagstaff Library
May 26 & 29 Warner’s Landscape & Nursery
Container Gardening
May 30 Flagstaff Sunday Community Market Begins
June 5 Terroir Seeds Open House – Chino Valley
June 6 Earth Spirit Essential Oils Claqss
Grounding and the Earth Elements
June 11-13 NAU Sustainable Communities Program
Four Sister Gardening in the Southwest Highlands
June 13 Earth Spirit Essential Oils Class
Ether and the Sacred Scents
June 17 Coconino MG Association Meeting
June 18-20 NAU Sustainable Communities Program
Global Food Systems
June 26 Hummingbird Festival
Arboretum at Flagstaff
July 7 Flagstaff Wednesday Community Market Begins
July 9 Summer Plant Sale
Arboretum at Flagstaff
July 17 10% of Proceeds at Warners Donated to the Olivia White Gardens
July 30-Aug.1 NAU Sustainable Communities Program
Permaculture Design Course
August 27-28 11th Annual Arizona Highlands Garden Conference – Payson, AZ
Oct 13-16 American Horticultural Therapy Association
Annual Conference – Chicago, IL
Oct 16 13th Annual School Garden Conference – Chicago, IL

AERA 2010 Summer Plant Walks

The Arizona Ethnobotanical Research Association (AERA) is pleased to announce the highly
anticipated, thoroughly enjoyable....

AERA 2010 SUMMER PLANT WALKS

Please join Phyllis Hogan and Jessa Fisher on one or all of these magical, educational walks. The focus is on medicinal and ethnobotanical uses of local, native plants.

Sunday June 6 Huckabee Trail
Wednesday June 23 Elden Pipeline
Sunday July 18 Kelly Canyon
Sunday August 8 Little Springs Fern Mountain
Thursday, August 12 Griffith Springs
Wednesday September 8 Buffalo Park

* Easy- Moderate hiking *All ages and levels encouraged to come! *Plan on 2 (weekday)- 4 (weekend) hours * Bring clothes for the weather, water, snacks and/ or a lunch * A $10 (weekday) or $20 (weekend) donation to our non-profit organization greatly appreciated- sliding scale * Carpool meeting place and time announced with registration. To register or for more info, call Winter Sun at 774-2884 or email azethnobotany@hotmail.com

"Beauty before me, beauty behind me, beauty beside me, beauty below me, beauty above me -- I walk in beauty." -Traditional Navajo Prayer

Jessa Fisher

Yavapai County Master Gardener Association Garden Tours

What: Yavapai Master Gardener Association Annual Garden Tours
Tour of 5 gardens in Camp Verde, Village of Oak Creek, Sedona and Rimrock.
You will be required to sign a photo/video release form in order to participate. Participants must be 18 years or older. No restroom facilities will be available at the garden sites.

Where: The tour begins at Windmill Garden Nursery at 9550 E. Cornville Road in Cornville. Register here and receive your map for the self guided tour.

When: Saturday, June 5, from 9:00am - 4:00 pm
Registration for the tour is between 8am-1030am

Cost: $5.00 per person

So Much More Than Trees! The Southwestern Ponderosa Pine Forest

Flagstaff nature writer Susan Lamb will explore the understory and wildlife of the vast and lovely ponderosa forest that every Flagstaffian treasures as our personal “neighborwoods.” There are many resource management challenges involving the forest around us but in this program, Lamb will summon the “hidden wholeness” in the heart of the woodland that beckons us every day.

Based on insights from observations of well over 100 wildflower species and other nature notes—and featuring images taken by her husband, photographer Tom Bean—the talk centers on a part of Coconino National Forest just off Lake Mary Road within the Walnut Canyon Study Area. Come enter the mystery and grace of the very real and yet quite enchanting natural world that is all around us.

What: So Much More Than Trees!
An illustrated talk on the ecosystem of the southwestern ponderosa pine forest.
When: 7 pm, Wednesday, May 12, 2010.
Where: Cline Library Auditorium, Northern Arizona University
Admission: Free.

susan@susanlamb.net
www.susanlamb.net

2010 Summer Institutes from Sustainable Communities Program

NAU is offering some unique summer courses from the Sustainable Communities Program. The series of short course offers you unique learning opportunities in Northern Arizona. The workshops cover an exciting range of interdisciplinary topice, but all share the theme of building a socially healthy and ecologically sustainable world.

To get more information about each class or to register contact Tamara Ramirez at 928-523-0499 or email Tamara.Ramirez@nau.edu.

Sustainability in the Southwest: Lessons from Puebloan Culture
Dr. Miquel Vasquez
SUS 599 Clalss #2365
2 units graduate credit (P/F) or $250 Non-Credit Workshop
Friday, 5/21 6pm-8pm
Saturday 5/22 9am-12pm
Sunday 5/23 9am-7pm

Friday, 5/28 7am-5pm
Saturday 5/29 9am-5pm
Sunday 5/30 9am-9pm

Week 1 will include Friday & Saturday classroom sessions, with a fieldtrip to Hopi on Sunday. Week 2 will include a 3 day field trip to New Mexico, leaving Friday and returning Sunday.

Four Sisters Gardening in the Southwest Highlands
Dr. Patrick Pynes
SUS 599 Class #2358
1 unit graduate credit (P/F) or $125 Non-credit Workshop
Friday, June 11 6pm-9pm
Saturday, June 12 9am-5pm
Sunday, June 13 9am-1pm

Corn. Beans. Squash and Bees. Fieldtrips included.

Global Food Systems
Dr. Miguel Vasquez
SUS 599 Class #2359
1 unit graduate credit (P/F) or $125 Non-credit Workshop
Friday, June 18 6pm-9pm
Saturday, June 19 9am-5pm
Sunday, June 20, 9am-1pm

Overview cours on Global Food Systems with a focus on sustainability.


Permaculture Design Certification
Josh Robinson (with additional support from Sandra Lubarsky)
Four weekend course:
July 30-August 1
August 6-8
August 13-15
August 20-22
$600 early registration for Non - Credit

Vegetable Gardening in Flagstaff

Jim Mast, long time Master Gardener in Coconino County will be teaching a class on Vegetable Gardening in Flagstaff. Come join him at the East Flagstaff Library on Tuesday, May 25th, beginning at 6:30pm. Free lecture, no reservations required. Come early - seating is limited.

Earth Spirit Essential Oils

Single lessons or a five week course is being offered on the therapeutic applications of healing yourself, others, and the planet with sacred essential oil scents.

Where: Fill Circle Pilates at the corner of Beaver and Dale, 320 N. Beaver St. Park in parking lot on Dale and enter through the back door. Classes in upstairs studio. Bring a backjack or pillow to sit on.

When: Sundays from 5-7pm. May 9th Introduction and the warming, fire element oils; May 16th Respirator/air element oils; May 23rd Florals and the water element oils; no class May 30th due to holiday weekend; June 6th Grounding and the earth element oils; June 13th Ether and the sacred scents

Cost: $50 for all 5 classes or $15 a class

Who: Teachers certified b y David Crow, L.Ac./Floracopeia. Contact Deana Tatro 928-607-1546 or Jessa Fisher 928-5814-2264 or nectarhands@gmail.com for more info.

MG Association Meeting Minutes 4/15/10

Master Gardener Meeting Minutes 4/15/10
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Attending: Jim Mast, Steve Shields, Ed Skiba, Loni Shapiro, Hattie Braun, Crys Wells, Julie Holmes, Shawn Padilla, Robin Lang, Ann Cotton, Paul Lambert, Val Bryant, Ruth Ellis, Irene Matthews, Andrea & Galen Guerette, Sue Norris, Sheila Murray

6:30pm-6:40pm Welcome – Agenda
Jim Mast
Brief review of agenda. Introduction of speakers

6:40pm-7:25pm Continuing Education
Research at the Arboretum, Rules for Collecting and Some Basic Plant ID
Sheila Murray
Research Botanist – The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Sheila reviewed the mission of the Arboretum, research including who they partner with, and specific projects that have been done in the past. She then talked about current research. She defined what a rare plant is, and demographics that effect it. Threats to rare plants were discussed, and federal and state laws to protect plants. The remainder of her talk covered rare and endangered plants at the Arboretum: Allium goodingii, Argemone plelacantha ssp. Pinnatisects, Asclepias welshii, Astragalus creminophylax var. cremnophylax (plant from the Grand Canyon was covered in detail due to current research), Astragalus humillimus, Astragalus montii, Carex specuicola, Castilleja kaibabenis, Crysothamnus molestrus, Cimicifuga arizonica, Erigeron maguirei, Hedeoma todsenii, Penstemon clutei, Purshia subintegra, Ranunculus aestivalis, Salix arizonica, Senecio huachucannus, Senecio franciscannus. The last part of the talk was about rules for seed collection and participating in the Arboretum’s collection projects. The web site for the Arboretum is: www.thearb.org. You can find Sheila on the site. She has her own blog. She is available for questions about identification and collecting.

7:25pm-7:40pm Foodlink – FUSD School Gardens
Sue Norris
Sue talked about Foodlink’s grants for starting school gardens within FUSD. Some have been operating for some time but others are just beginning. They are looking for master gardeners to work as consultants to these new programs. She provided pictures for each site and a brief description of what their plans are. If you are interested in being involved in school gardens contact Sue Norris for further info. sue@tonynorris.com. Watch this site for an update on specific school gardens. They have two funded positions to coordinate this effort and developed curriculum for the schools. Funds are limited for 2010 but they hope to get more grant money next year. Sue or someone from the program will update us on progress in November of 2010.
School Gardens Workdays scheduled:
April 23 - Marshall
April 30 - Kinsey

7:40pm – 7:55pm Refreshments
Loni Shapiro

7:55pm -8:30pm Business Meeting
7:55pm-8:10pm Overview of recent Executive Committee meeting - Jim Mast
Mission statement reviewed
Adding Standing Committees to Bi-laws at a future date
Maintaining certification
Inactive, initial certification
Master gardeners can be trainees (working on their initial 50 hours – 18 months or special approval from Hattie Braun), certified, inactive (certified initially but not currently doing volunteer/education hours). Hours need to be turned in from Coconino County. To move from inactive to certified the current requirements need to be met. 2010 – 12 hours volunteered, 6 hours of continuing education and must be in Coconino County.
Finance
Bank account, dues collection, donations jar, calendar
A bank account will be opened as soon as we have sufficient funds, dues for 2010 will be voluntary ($10). At the end of the year the Extension will send out a notice for dues. A donation jar will be placed on the refreshment table at each meeting for people to contribute to the food. Whoever is bringing the food can take $5 (optional). The remainder will go into the general fund. Our 1st fundraiser will be a master gardener calendar for 2011. Information about contributing photos is on the blog (coconinomgassociation.blogspot.com). The deadline is May 3rd. Plans are to have the calendars ready for the August MG Conference in Payson.

8:10pm-8:15pm May 15 in New Mexico – Ed Skiba
Ed is looking for some people to participate in a field trip to the Arboretum Tome (Michael Melendrez) in New Mexico. They are offering tours, music food, and lectures at the Arboretum. It would be an all day trip leaving early in the morning. Contact Ed Skiba if you are interested in participating (trustacctservices@npgcable.com).

8:15pm-8:30pm 5 minutes for each committee chair
CE & Social Support
Speakers scheduled through Januaryr 2011. Check blog for updates.
Community Programs-Steve Shields
Flagstaff’s Community Market, Speakers Bureau, Home Show
Steve reported that we still need to contact the community market, we have 2 speakers for the Speakers Bureau and need more, and we are working on a long term commitment with the Home Show. Julie reported that volunteers are helping with and extension booth at the Arboretum for Arbor Day (Tom DeGomez)
Coordination MG Projects/ Loni Shapiro
Loni reported that the committee will meet to review and update the list of already approved projects. The school projects will submit individual applications to the Projects Committee.
Volunteers /Crys Wells
Crys reports that the on-line system of recording is working well, with more participating each week. The Executive Committee discussed ways to count community contacts and will seek Crys’s help.

Next meeting: May 20, 2010
Speaker: Herbs
Sue Collins

Speakers for future meetings:
June 17 Topic TBA Julie Lancaster
July 15 Microclimates & Gardening Lee Born
August 19 Bugs Freddie Steele
September Recognition Picnic
October 21 Hopi Agriculture Susan Lamb Bean
December Holiday Party