Celebrating A Decade of Service: Nature Coast Master Gardeners Making a Difference

Honoring Dedicated Volunteers

We proudly recognize the contributions of Else Brunner, Scott Hedrick, Moe McCausland, and Debra Weiss, acknowledging their 10th Anniversary of service to the University of Florida Master Gardener program. Nature Coast Master Gardeners (NCMGs) volunteer to manage gardens, meet residents at community events, and work behind the scenes in Dixie, Gilchrist and Levy counties. They donate their time and gain satisfaction in knowing their efforts matter and serve as a positive force in the communities we support. By assisting residents of all ages with plant, soil, insect and disease questions, NCMGs provide research-based horticultural education that strengthens our communities.

Volunteer Highlights

woman carrying two containers of green plants — Elsa grows vegetables for her household and readily shares tips and plants with NCMGs.

Else Brunner

Else has worked with both novice and experienced North Florida gardeners and naturalists. She especially enjoys sharing plants she has started from seed. Else volunteers with Limulus Watch, a University of Florida research project, which she describes as one of the most rewarding aspects of her volunteer experience. Her commitment to community is evident in everything she does. Aside from service as a NCMG, Else is a volunteer wildlife dietician at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.

man emphasizing a point with raised hands — Scott explains soils sampling to workshop participants.

Scott Hedrick

Scott’s gardening interests have expanded from growing vegetables in raised beds to flowering vines, perennials and experimenting with plants. Scott eagerly embraces new NCMG opportunities to include the GardenART classes. This proud grandfather of two recently found great fulfillment in presenting during the ‘Cultivating Community through Service’ workshop. Learning outcomes included pest management, crop rotation and calculating fertilizer needs using University of Florida’s soil analysis report and fertilizer blends. Participants sowed seeds for future classes and transplanted approximately 700 cabbage, broccoli, beet, and lettuce seedlings into the community garden. When harvested at maturity, these cool season vegetables are distributed to Levy residents through the Children’s Table Food Pantry.

smiling woman — Maureen “Moe” McCausland greets new and returning friends.

Moe McCausland

In 2017, the NCMGs earned the University of Florida’s Beautification and Enhancement Award for work on the Dixie County Courthouse project. Moe, and a group of dedicated NCMGs renovated the neglected landscape at this high profile public building. Based on that success and applying what she’d learned in Master Gardener training, Moe and a group of dedicated parish members, designed and planted a memory garden at a Dixie County Methodist church. While not part of her official NCMG volunteer service, Moe felt the project was personally meaningful and worthwhile. She finds fulfillment knowing the property is now a peaceful place to walk, meditate, and foster a sense of well-being for all who visit. Moe’s selflessness continues to inspire others.

woman holding a container of flowers — Debra holds a sample draped hypertufa container.

Debra Weiss

A consistent presence at plant clinics, Debra enjoys connecting with others who share her passion for gardening. Following the example of her mentor, Debra serves as a NCMG class mentor to encourage and support new volunteers. She embodies the spirit of giving back and helping future generations. Debra has been a leading contributor of our Levy Library Summer Reading programs

Thank you and congratulations to Else Brunner, Scott Hedrick, Moe McCausland, and Debra Weiss. Your commitment and partnership has contributed to our success and made a meaningful difference in the lives of people throughout our communities. Thank you all for your outstanding dedication and service!

We celebrate your achievements and look forward to many more years together. Until next time—Happy Gardening!