Several prominent speakers are presenting programs during the 2009 MG Class. The 2009 Class begins on Tuesday, January 13th, and we are hoping to schedule the majority of the sessions in the new Johnson City Library with its wonderful facilities for speakers and their audience.

Todd Swift, Blanco County’s Extension Agent, will begin the class with an introduction to the Master Gardener program and its association with the AgriLife Extension Service and our Land Grant College, Texas A&M.

Dr. Barron Rector, will be returning to Blanco County to present a program titled, Environmental Horticulture.

Dr. Rector, Extension Range Specialist at Texas A&M, is recognized nationally and internationally for his training workshops. Everyone who heard him speak at our Grass Celebration will pleased to know he plans another visit.

Another presenter will be Jan Wrede, director of education at the Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne, Texas.

Besides her extensive research and teaching opportunities at the Cibolo Nature Center, Wrede has compiled a field guide to more than 125 species of mostly native, woody plants of the Texas Hill Country.

In the introduction she discusses deer, cedar, water, oak wilt and invasive species – all important issues with land owners in the Texas Hill Country. Her field guide is titled, Trees, Shrubs, and Vines of the Texas Hill Country.

Our next presenters have an essential field guide for anyone attempting to identify native grasses. Instead of the typical black, ink grass drawings, Brian and Shirley Loflin have brought us a beautiful photographic guide to grasses titled, Grasses of the Texas Hill Country Included are seventy- seven native and introduced species that grow in the Texas Hill Country and beyond.

The Loflins live in Austin and are independent naturalist, photographers and writers. Their scientific advisor on this book was Stephen L. Hatch, a leading authority on grass.

Register now to become a Master Gardener and learn from the experts.

Registration forms are available at the AgriLife Extension office in Johnson City or call 830-868-7167. Please try to return the form before the holidays. We will be ordering MG Handbooks for you and need an accurate count.