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2008 VCE Special Projects

Project Descriptions

Project Leader: Leanne Dubois, Extension Agent,

Agricultural and Natural Resources

Farm Resource Guide

To provide assistance to the Extension Agent on researching, organizing and compiling a resource directory of local farms, farm products, horticultural businesses, land based community events and non profit conservation organizations. The volunteers will work with the county's GIS specialist to map farms along with descriptions of products and services. Farms and farmland exists in an increasingly urban environment and under intense development pressure. The recent success of the Williamsburg Farmer's Market and local farm tour has confirmed the interest level of the urban community in seeking locally produced products. The resource guide will assist in the marketing of local farms and products to increase the sustainability and viability of our farm community.

Volunteers needed: 2 – 6. Timeframe: ongoing until completion. Location: Work from home/VCE office

Merrimac Detention Center

The Merrimac Detention Center is located in James City County and houses up to forty-eight youth, ages seven through seventeen under detention order from a juvenile court. The detention experience is geared toward constructive use of time to provide services that support their physical, emotional and social development. The center includes a greenhouse that is integrated into the nine week Horticulture Skills curriculum developed through the JCC Extension Office integrating basic horticulture skills with business management and workforce training. The instructors include volunteers from the Master Gardener program, private sector and county landscape professionals. Volunteers are needed to prepare and teach a one hour hands on class on basic horticulture skills ranging from plant propagation to turf management. Ten to twelve youths ranging in age from 11 to 17 participate in the nine week training course and receive a certificate from Virginia Cooperative Extension upon completion.

Volunteers: 4 – 8 (2 hour class prep, 1 hour presentation)