By Blake Jackson
Lincoln University strengthened its community education efforts in September when Jack “JJ” Spurlin of the university’s Innovative Small Farmers’ Outreach Program served as a guest instructor for the Jasper County Extension Master Gardener course in Carthage, Missouri.
Spurlin led a session on landscape design, introducing practical concepts and techniques that participants can use in their gardens, landscaping projects, and community spaces.
The Fall 2026 course is organized through the University of Missouri Extension and takes place at the Jasper County Courthouse in Carthage.
The program offers comprehensive horticultural education while preparing participants to share their knowledge through volunteer activities and community outreach.
“It is always a privilege to have an opportunity to teach and share what I have learned,” Spurlin said. “Whether it is a Lincoln University program, a University of Missouri Extension program or another opportunity to serve our communities, I am always glad to help. At the end of the day, we are all working toward the same goal — helping people learn, grow and strengthen the communities we serve.”
Spurlin praised Matthew Huchteman, MU Extension field specialist in horticulture for Jasper County, for organizing the course.
“Matthew has put together an excellent Master Gardener class,” Spurlin said. “Programs like this are a great example of what can happen when Extension professionals, educators and community members work together.”
Missouri’s Extension Master Gardener program has supported communities since 1983, focusing on “helping others learn to grow” by training volunteers to provide research-based gardening information.
In Jasper County, Ozark Gateway Master Gardeners contribute hundreds of volunteer and educational service hours through demonstration gardens, children's gardening activities and projects supporting local organizations.
Spurlin emphasized that collaboration between educational institutions helps communities benefit from shared expertise.
“Education works best when we share it,” he said. “Universities may have different names on the sign, but when we bring our knowledge together and use it to serve people, everybody benefits.”
The Fall 2026 Jasper County Extension Master Gardener course continues through October 15 in Carthage.
Photo Credit: lincoln-university-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education