Speakers Bureau Ramping Up for 2026

Incoming Speakers Bureau
Chair Joel Patton

By MG Joel Patton

The Montgomery County Master Gardener Speakers Bureau continues to support our mission of educating residents about safe, effective, and sustainable horticultural practices that build healthy gardens, landscapes, and communities. This past year has seen a change in leadership, with MCMG Coordinator Steve Dubik and MG Joel Patton guiding our experienced and dedicated speakers, schedulers, and staff through new initiatives intended to increase engagement throughout the county. In 2025, we piloted a children’s program with a small group of dedicated speakers, and in 2026, expect to see the launch of an updated website and marketing campaign designed to increase target audience size, expand outreach to new organizations, and explore the development of new topics.

This year, our team of over 20 knowledgeable speakers provided more than 60 presentations to garden clubs, libraries, and scouting organizations on a range of topics, including Integrated Pest Management practices, native plants, composting, stormwater management, and Bay-Wise best practices. Needless to say, none of this would be possible without MGs who have committed their time and effort to make the Speakers Bureau a success. If any MG is interested in becoming a speaker or has an idea for a topic, they should contact Steve (sdubik@umd.edu) or Joel (see VMS for his email address).