Jefferson County Master Gardeners in Service: The Courage Garden by Lorrie Redman

Weeping Crabapple in bloom at The Courage Garden, photo by Loretta Simms

Every day, we are surrounded by stories of violent crime. Rather than forgetting these horrific events, communities strive to bring people together to honor the victims and seek solutions. In Jefferson County, a Courage Garden was created in 1995 to help individuals remember loved ones and to remind community members that there is still work to be done. The garden provides a peaceful setting for reflection and solace. 

Jefferson County Master Gardeners: The Past and Present Come Together by Lorrie Redman

Photo courtesy of Duane Davidson, Pictured: Char Gottlieb and Mary Kirby  

Jefferson County’s thriving master gardener program started in the early 1970s, by Dr. James R. Feuchts, the Jefferson County Horticulture Agent. Extension agents wanted to reach more residents in the gardening community and the landscaping industry. Today the Jefferson County Master Gardener program supports over a 100 volunteers utilizing research based education to foster successful gardeners, develop partnerships and build stronger communities. 

1970s

• It began with 17 volunteers who finished 36 classroom hours at the Denver Botanic Gardens and reached 4500 Jefferson County residents. 
• A telephone recording system was implemented to disseminate information for the public.
• The first Demonstration and Research Garden was created on the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.
• Master Gardeners participated in solar energy tours and drought tolerant plant classes. 

1980s

• A Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic was started and is still a unique resource available for Jefferson County residences. 
• A Speakers Bureau was created to reach garden clubs and Green Industry professionals.
• 74 master gardeners participated in research projects including alternative mulches, pheromone trapping and season extenders.