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SJ 303

Commending Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Barbara Favola and 4 co-sponsors

Declares formal commendation for the Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia on their 40th anniversary, recognizing their public service and community beautification.

Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ303ER)
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Bill Summary · SJ 303

Summary — Senate Joint Resolution No. 303 (SJ303ER)

Purpose and Intent

SJ303ER is a ceremonial resolution that commends the Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia (MGNV) on the occasion of its 40th anniversary. The measure expresses the General Assembly’s admiration for MGNV’s service to the Commonwealth and acknowledges the organization’s contributions to sustainable gardening education and community beautification in Northern Virginia.

What the bill does

  • Declares appreciation for MGNV’s 40-year legacy and public service.
  • Recites MGNV’s history, activities, and achievements.
  • Directs the Clerk of the Senate to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation to MGNV.

As a resolution, the bill does not create or change law or funding; it is a formal commendation and recognition document.

Background: Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia (MGNV)

  • A nonprofit organization aligned with the Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE).
  • Incorporated December 3, 1985; more than 250 members.
  • Collaborates with VCE on eight demonstration gardens, plant clinics, public events, workshops, and a help desk at the VCE office in Arlington County.
  • MGNV volunteers contribute substantial public service, including extensive hours supporting horticultural education and best practices.

Key achievements and provisions highlighted in the bill

  • Volunteer impact: MGNV volunteers average nearly 100 hours per member per year.
  • 2023 activities (in collaboration with Arlington and Alexandria Extension Master Gardeners):
    • Over 22,500 volunteer hours.
    • 32 public education classes.
    • Numerous inquiries addressed at the VCE help desk.
    • Distribution of more than 250 native trees.
  • Online and public engagement: More than 23,000 online followers; recognized by the National Association of County Agricultural Agents for website and online content.
  • Awards and recognitions:
    • Bill Thomas Park Volunteer Award from the Arlington Park and Recreation Commission (outstanding park volunteer contributions).
    • Simpson Park Demonstration Garden received a 2024 City of Alexandria Community Beautification Award.
    • MGNV Youth Education Program earned a 2024 Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Award.
  • Outreach and impact: The Youth Education Program has delivered hands-on gardening education at nearly 20 local schools and youth organizations.

Procedural and timeline details

  • Introduced: January 24, 2025.
  • Engrossed by the Senate: January 30, 2025; agreed to by the Senate by voice vote.
  • House action: Agreed to by the House of Delegates on February 3, 2025.
  • Enrolled: February 4, 2025.
  • Status: Passed by both chambers as SJ303ER (Senate Joint Resolution No. 303, enrolled).

Impact and beneficiaries

  • Primary beneficiaries: MGNV members, VCE, Arlington/Alexandria communities, and the broader public that benefits from MGNV’s education programs and beautification efforts.
  • Fiscal impact: None indicated; ceremonial designation without new funding authority.

Notes

  • Patrons included in the original Senate version: Favola and Salim; Delegates Hope, Keys-Gamarra, and Watts.
  • The resolution serves as an official, non-binding acknowledgment of MGNV’s 40th anniversary and community contributions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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