Theresa Badurek, Extension Agent, Urban Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County

I am the Urban Horticulture Extension Agent for the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension in Pinellas County. With a passion for sustainable landscapes (that save you time and money) and environmental stewardship, I lead programs that empower residents, community organizations, and local governments to make science‑based decisions that benefit people and the environment.

In my role, I help residents, businesses, and municipalities adopt landscaping practices that conserve water, protect natural resources, and reduce pollution. I provide expert guidance on plant selection, landscape design, integrated pest management, and more, helping you create more resilient communities.

I also lead the Master Gardener Volunteer Program in Pinellas County, training and mentoring local volunteers who extend the program’s reach through community education, demonstration gardens, and public outreach. Under my guidance, these volunteers contribute thousands of service hours (approximately 12,000 annually) helping residents with home gardening questions and supporting landscape improvement projects countywide.

My work strengthens partnerships with local agencies, schools, libraries, and community organizations, fostering community‑wide engagement in smart, sustainable horticulture. Through workshops, media outlets, and hands‑on programming, I help keep Extension a trusted local resource for practical, research‑based solutions for our local needs.

As a native‑born and lifelong Pinellas County resident, I embody the mission of UF/IFAS Extension; to provide “Solutions for Your Life.” My efforts directly support the county’s goals for water conservation, water‑quality protection, community resilience, and well‑being. I am here to help you improve the greater Pinellas landscape- from the beaches to the pines.

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