Master Gardeners learn about Marr Park Trails

Washington County Master Gardeners heard a presentation on Marr Park and ideas for the trails in the park. Pam Holz, Washington County naturalist, gave the presentation to the group at its Feb. 24 meeting at the Washington County Extension Office.

Holz gave an informative slide show on Marr Park and ideas for the trails. Holz explained that one of the ideas they have is for metal arches to be installed on the trails. Jase Septer from Iowa City does plasma cuttings into metal that would be turned into arches. The group voted to purchase one of the arches with a hummingbird and a flower in it. A check was presented to Pam to give to Marr Park for the purchase. A plaque will be placed to show who donated it.

Roll call was ?What gardening do you do in the winter?? and was answered by 15 members.

In other business: Bev Colbert brought up the need for garden supplies for the Ainsworth school garden. They are in need of fencing, hoses, and steppingstones. The group voted to donate $200 to the school garden. Approval was given to purchase four more tables to be used for the Master Gardener annual plant sale on the fairgrounds. New Master Gardener certificates should be here for the March meeting and will be presented. Discussion was held about the Carolyn Schmidt fundraiser. Schmidt is a member of the Washington County Master Gardeners. Information on the Washington County Master Gardener Horticulture Scholarship has been sent to the media and area high schools.

The next meeting will be March 24 at the Extension Office with Shirley Pfeifer presenting the program on the Chelsea Garden Show. For more information on the Master Gardener program contact Washington County Extension at 319-653-4811. The next training is planned for the fall of 2015.