Speaker Request
Would you like to schedule a Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteer to speak to your club or group? Volunteers give presentations on a variety of topics as a public service in Douglas & Sarpy Counties. They fulfill Extension's mission to share relevant, research-based information about sustainable horticulture practices.
Requirements and Fees
Requirements
Volunteers are available to speak to groups of 10 or more on the menu of topics below. Some topics are seasonal, and we are constantly developing more. Talks are typically PowerPoint presentations that last a minimum of 30-45 minutes with time for questions. Complete the request form below at least 45 days before your event. We will do our best to accommodate your request but cannot guarantee volunteer availability.
Fees
Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteers are pleased to offer the services of our Speakers Bureau at no charge. However, we appreciate honorariums in support of our educational activities.
Non-profit group $25
For-profit groups $100
Checks payable to "University of Nebraska-Lincoln" and mailed:
Attn: Master Gardener Volunteer Program
Nebraska Extension in Douglas-Sarpy Counties
8015 W Center Rd
Omaha, NE 68124
Program Topics
Successful Rain Gardens
Rain gardens can be a cost effective and beautiful way to reduce runoff as well as provide food and shelter for butterflies, songbirds and other wildlife. This class will introduce attendees to rain gardens and how they can be incorporated into a biodiverse pollinator garden design. This presentation will include pre-planning steps as well as long-term success strategies for an effective and beautiful rain garden
Native & Drought Resistant Plants for Nebraska
Incorporating native plants into the landscape can help conserve water, reduce maintenance, and improve the environment, while still providing multi-season color and interest. In this class, attendees will learn about native and drought resistant plants for Nebraska, including the benefits to the environment, how to choose the right plant for the right place, and where to purchase locally.
Composting: Get The Scoop
Gardeners often have difficulty disposing of leaves, grass clippings and other garden refuse, particularly in urban areas. Composting can be an ecologically beneficial as well as cost-effective way to manage waste products. This presentation will introduce the basics of composting, including structures, tools, composting recipe, and year-round management practices.
Origami Newspaper Pots
Participants in this workshop will learn how to create origami pots from newspapers suitable for seed starting. The presenter will also discuss how to organize an indoor seed starting area and how to choose the best potting material and seeds. Participants will leave with their own origami pot.
Creating a Pollinator Garden
Without pollinators, many of our agricultural crops, food crops, and native plants wouldn’t survive. No matter the size of the area, homeowners can incorporate even the smallest pollinator garden that will create an enormous ecological benefit. In this class, attendees will learn about food, water, and shelter requirements that attract and protect pollinators, as well as how to choose pollinator plants for your landscape.
Backyard Chicken Keeping
Incorporating a few laying hens into your backyard garden has numerous benefits, including insect management, soil enhancement, and nutrient-dense poultry manure, also known to gardeners as “black gold.” This class will discuss how to raise chickens in and around your backyard garden. Attendees will learn how to create a safe hen enclosure, how to incorporate a garden area for chickens, and how to safely compost manure.
Adaptive Gardening
Gardening offers numerous physical and mental health benefits, providing an inclusive space where people of all ages and abilities can thrive. In this presentation, we’ll explore how adaptive gardening techniques and tools can make the joy of gardening accessible to everyone. Participants will learn practical tips, see photos of specialized tools, and discover general recommendations for gardening comfortably and enjoyably.
