— Written By Lucy Bradley

One year ago this month, NC State Extension Master Gardeners in Durham county created a radio show. In developing their concept, the production team discovered that their show is the first in the country to be produced solely by Master Gardener volunteers. Michelle Wallace, Durham County Horticulture Agent, supervises the show but all of the recording, audio engineering, photography, website management, social media, and promotion is done entirely by her Master Gardeners. “We have an amazing group of volunteers in our county and they are always looking for new ways to teach people about gardening,” said Wallace.

In January, the show expanded their format to include weekly podcasts of their episodes. “We are thrilled people can now find our stories on  iTunes,” said Lise Jenkins, the show’s producer. Podcasting allows listeners to subscribe to the show and receive automatic updates that can be heard on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

The show focuses on bringing to gardeners stories about the intersection of horticulture and innovation and the people who are leading the way. “One of the reasons I like working on the show is it gives me an opportunity to meet and interview people who are contributing to the public’s education and enjoyment of gardens and gardening,” said Harold Johnson, the show’s host.

While the show began in Durham county, surrounding counties are beginning to participate with agents and Master Gardeners being interviewed and serving as correspondents. Lucy Bradley, Associate Professor of Horticulture and Urban Horticulture Extension Specialist at NC State University, aspires to involving the whole state:  “We have Master Gardeners all over North Carolina who are enthusiastic educators and want to help their communities. Using radio and podcasting is another way to reach out to the people of our state.”

To hear the latest episode, visit the Getting Dirty with Master Gardeners website at go.ncsu.edu/emgv-radio.