Dakota Gardener: The Extension Master Gardener Program celebrates 50 years

The NDSU Extension Master Gardener Program was started in 1980 and currently has over 200 volunteers. In 2022, the group volunteered more than 12,500 hours in 37 North Dakota counties. (NDSU photo)
The NDSU Extension Master Gardener Program was started in 1980 and currently has over 200 volunteers. In 2022, the group volunteered more than 12,500 hours in 37 North Dakota counties. (NDSU photo)

In 2016, a roomful of Extension Master Gardener coordinators from around the country sat with bated breath as the speaker took the stage. Dr. David Gibby, a distinguished silver- haired gentleman, began to speak of his childhood in the Southwest during the 1930s. He shared a story about his parents that defined his upbringing and inspired a community volunteer program that would be adopted in 49 s…