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Seneca County Master Gardeners highlight platinum award, volunteer hours and upcoming conference
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Summary
The Seneca County Master Gardener Association told commissioners it recorded 42 active volunteers in 2025, logged 2,382 volunteer hours and received Ohio State University Extension’s platinum standards of excellence award; the group outlined workshops, a March 21 conference and community outreach plans.
Steve Detillion, community relations chair of the Seneca County Master Gardener Association, told the Board of Commissioners the group had a strong 2025 and is preparing a full slate of programs for 2026. "We were awarded the platinum standards of excellent award," Detillion said, noting the award is given by Ohio State University Extension to programs that meet five criteria, including annual training, nominations for statewide awards and community-focused projects.
Detillion said the association finished 2025 with 42 active master gardeners, including five interns; the group conducted 31 educational programs, logged about 730 continuing education hours and recorded 2,382 volunteer hours across public events and outreach. "We did end up selling 800 plants to over 200 customers" at the May flea market, he said, pointing to the plant sale as a key funding and outreach activity.
The group described its public assistance service, "Ask a Master Gardener," and named volunteer Charlie Hoop as an on‑call expert who fields public questions. Detillion said the county unit received more than 100 online questions in 2025, while the state program handles roughly 2,500 queries annually.
Jane Stuy and Susan Niswander outlined recent classes and upcoming events. Stuy said the association hosted three wreath‑making sessions (including a training for interns) that drew waiting lists and strong public interest. Niswander reported three winter "sowing" workshops at local libraries with 43 participants and announced a March 21 conference titled "Classical Elements," open to the public and volunteers from across Ohio. Planned speakers include Matt Gooding of Growers Mineral Corporation on water, Mac Mark Langan of Mulberry Creek Herb Farm on soilless potting mixes, Erin Wilson (Ohio State Extension climatologist) on weather impacts, and John Blakeman on prescribed‑fire prairie management.
Commissioners asked how the association funds its work; Detillion said the plant sale remains the primary source and that paid workshops, donations and an annual scholarship help diversify revenue. He also credited Presley, the Ohio State Extension educator who works with the group, for publicity and administrative support.
The presenters thanked the board for local support and noted opportunities to expand outreach at county events such as the farmers market and fair. The group also requested assistance with heavier‑duty signage for outdoor displays and flagged a desire for more permanent office space.
The association’s presentation closed with a safety‑related public comment: an attendee said the meeting building lacked an automated external defibrillator (AED). County staff said they would check AED availability and follow up.
