Describes the Master Gardener Program, which provides help for extension staff by using qualified volunteers to respond to the ever-increasing need for advice and help on gardening. (JOW)

A sample of 78 (of 320) home gardeners use rules of thumb (heuristics) to choose between chemical pesticides and nonchemical alternatives. Pesticides rank low in 24 choice attributes where alternatives rank high, and vice versa. Gender, age, and years of pesticide use correlate with pesticide selection. (SK)

Effectiveness of 2 extension publications on pesticide usage and safety (offered through stores and nurseries) was tested through surveys of 800 pamphlet users (415 responses) and focus group interviews with 20-30 respondents. Results showed, if marketed correctly, written information has large audience, safety information needs to be presented…

One hundred ninety-seven volunteers were surveyed to assess community development knowledge and skill gains and community involvement and community building behavior from participation in a Master Gardener program. Though the program was intended to disseminate horticultural information, it was found to have a serendipitous effect on community…