In this edition:

• Junior Extension Master Naturalist classes for kids
• Screen-Free Week is May 1-7
• Explore 4-H Projects
• May Financial Check In
• Garden tours, speakers and classes... + lots more!

Welcome to our new staff!

We are excited to introduce three new additions to the K-State Research and Extension Johnson County team:

• Amy Keigher, Natural Resources Agent
• Lexi Ray, 4-H Youth Development Agent
• Sara Wiercinski, Communications Manager

NEW! Junior Extension Master Naturalists programs

We are kicking off three months of hands-on learning for kids in grades 3-5. Cost is $15 for the month.

May: Mammals & Herpetology

• Wednesday, May 10: Lizards, Snakes, Toads and Frogs
• Wednesday, May 17: Mammals
• Saturday, May 20: Field Study TBA

June: Pollinators

• Wednesday, June 7: Birds
• Wednesday, June 14: Entomology and Pollinators/Bees
• Saturday, June 17: Field Study at Pollinator Prairie

July: Water

• Wednesday, July 12: Wonders of Water
• Wednesday, July 19: Wonders of Water
• Saturday, July 22: Field Study TBA

May 1 to May 7 is International Screen-Free Week.

For the next seven days, we challenge you to reduce your screen time and find non-digital forms of entertainment. Here in Johnson County, we have lots of opportunities.

4-H Project Exploration

If you are familiar with 4-H, you hear the word “project” used a lot. What exactly are 4-H projects?

The 4-H program is rooted in the belief that youth learn best by “doing,” and projects provide hands-on opportunities in a positive environment.

“Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.”

-Edmund Burke

May's Financial Check In highlights:

• Check your credit report
• Automate your savings for emergencies
• Set up a 529 College Savings Plan ... and more.

How to Stop Junk Mail

The average American spends 8 months of their lives opening junk mail. The good news is there are ways to cut down on how much unsolicited mail you get.

Become an Extension Master Gardener

Are you passionate about gardening and looking for volunteer opportunities? Consider becoming an EMG.

An informational session about the EMG program will be held on Monday, May 15 from noon to 1:30 PM. Learn more about the program and application process.

Private Garden Tour: Beauty, Elegance and Inspiration

Don’t miss your opportunity to see six of the most outstanding gardens in the KC area. Join us on June 17 and 18. Limited number of tickets available.

Garden Gurus Speakers Series

Join us for a part of the International Master Gardener Conference and hear three outstanding speakers. Sit back and hear about gardening in England, ride along on the monarch migration or hear tips from a world-renowned designer. Tickets are selling fast!

Composting 101 Virtual Class

Wednesday, May 24

6 to 7 PM

Compost can be used in enrich local soils. Gardeners can often overlook the importance of improving and maintaining fertile soils for growth. In this class, learn how to get started with composting. This session will give you the tools you need to get started and how to be successful.

May 2023

June 2023

We are dedicated to a safe, sustainable, competitive food and fiber system and to strong healthy communities, families, and youth through integrated research, analysis, and education.