Issue 19 | May 12, 2023
Master Gardner Volunteer Classes Available

Did you always want to be a master gardener but weren't sure how to become one? You are in luck! Applications are now being accepted for the UF/IFAS Extension Sumter County Master Gardener Volunteer Program for the 2023 class. You can apply for the program until July 15, 2023.

Classes will be held on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., September 6 through December 6, 2023, and will be held at the Sumter County Extension Office at 7620 SR 471, Suite 2, Bushnell in Expo 6 or the dining room of the Sumter County Fairgrounds. You will get to enjoy hands-on learning opportunities offered in person. Master Gardener volunteer students will enjoy lectures by experts in their fields, hands-on activities, project, and field trips.

This intensive training covers topics that include basic botany, plant propagation, soils and fertilizers, vegetable and fruit production, citrus, identifying and controlling insects and diseases, identifying ornamental plants, pesticide safety and alternatives, attracting wildlife, and managing nuisance wildlife, and more. Students will also receive Green Industry Best Management Practices certification training as part of testing.  All material covered is based on research from University of Florida and includes the Florida Master Gardener Student Manual.
Enjoy Low-Cost Camping, Canoeing in Sumter County

With the onset of summer weather and the school year ending, a little camping trip just might a nice to get away from it all for a couple of days. Sumter County has three camping locations that are free to use, though filling out an application is required.

Camping is primitive only at Marsh Bend, Wahoo and Lake Okahumpka facilities. Several camping areas have sand volleyball, children's playground, boat ramps and canoes that can be rented from Sumter County Library facilities. They are perfect for families looking for an easy and low-cost getaway, to get children comfortable camping for a longer camping trip, church groups, social organizations, among others.

When camping at Sumter County facilities there are some rules to adhere to:
  1. No person shall establish temporary accommodations at any campsite for more than three days and two nights per month.
  2. Alcohol and illegal drugs are not allowed on County property.
  3. Pets must be on a leash, unless otherwise posted, and their mess must be cleaned up.
  4. Do not leave food out as it may draw wildlife.
To learn more and check availability, call the Library at 352-689-4567 and
Make a Dog Happy
On National Dog Rescue Day
In recognition of National Rescue Dog Day on May 20, 2023, Sumter County Animal Services is having a special adoption event. With more than 150 dogs and dozens of kittens, there are plenty of pets looking for their furever home or foster home.

Rescue dogs bring lots of promises of love, friendship and kindness. Each year, millions of animals, specifically dogs, are abandoned by their owners and end up on the streets. Many of these animals are used to a sheltered life, and this, in turn, makes it difficult for them to fend for themselves out in the world where they often fall victim to various predators, disease or cars. Adopting, or even just fostering, helps people and the animals in the long run.

There are several ways residents can help animals at the shelter. Of course, the best is adopting or fostering. You will be providing a safe place filled with love and kindness to the animal and, in return, you will receive friendship and unconditional love.

If you’re unable to adopt or foster, you can still help by spreading awareness by informing friends and neighbors of the animals needing a home. Use hashtags like #NationalRescueDogDay on social media platforms. Start a conversation about the campaign with others.

Another beneficial way one can help is by volunteering at Sumter County Animal Services. You can shower dogs with love and care by taking them out for walks, or playing a game or two of fetch with them, or feeding them during their mealtimes, cleaning their beds and cages, among other needs.

Animal Services is located at 819 CR 529, Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538; or call them at 352-689-4400.

Click here To adopt or