Master Gardener Extension Volunteers from across Georgia gathered at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens on October 16-17, 2026 for two days of education and networking at the annual GMGA (Georgia Master Gardener Association) Conference. The Coastal Georgia Master Gardener group hosted this year’s conference and we appreciate the hard work and dedication of this team that resulted in a such a successful event!
Dr. Joel Burnsed Receives GMGA Award of Excellence
The Georgia Master Gardener Association is pleased to announce that Dr. Joel Burnsed, Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent and County Extension Coordinator for Walton County, received the GMGA Award of Excellence on October 17 at the 2026 GMGA Annual Conference in Savannah. The award recognizes Dr. Burnsed’s leadership in growing the Walton County Master Gardener Extension Volunteer program, strengthening community partnerships, and expanding horticultural education and service.
Since 2014, the program has grown from four active volunteers to nearly 60! In 2025, Walton County Master Gardener Extension Volunteers contributed 5,641 service hours, reaching thousands of community members through educational events, youth programming, demonstration gardens, plant clinics, and environmental stewardship initiatives. Program accomplishments include the Walton County Experiential Learning Garden and outdoor educational pavilion, a partnership with Habitat for Humanity focused on landscape education, and the donation of more than 500 pounds of fresh produce to the Walton County Senior Center.
These achievements reflect a commitment to volunteer engagement, research-based education, and partnerships that improve quality of life throughout Walton County. GMGA congratulates Dr. Burnsed on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the Walton County Master Gardener Extension Volunteers and community partners whose dedication helps make these accomplishments possible.
About the Georgia Master Gardener Association
The Georgia Master Gardener Association supports and connects Master Gardener Extension Volunteers throughout Georgia, strengthening volunteer leadership and communication among members, local organizations, and Extension partners.
