SFA Gardens offering training for guides

Marybeth Hagood checks water quality at the SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center with local elementary school students.

The Mast Arboretum at Stephen F. Austin State University will host a Garden Guide training class beginning with an orientation session from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Jan. 19 at the Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St. The class prepares volunteers to give guided tours of the SFA Mast Arboretum and Pineywoods Native Plant Center. Garden Guides introduce small groups of students to the gardens through hands-on activities that might involve exploring the inside of a flower, learning about honeybee communication, taking a closer look at soil or forest habitats, or measuring a tree. According to Elyce Rodewald, education coordinator for the gardens, advanced horticulture knowledge is not necessary, but a love and appreciation for energetic, curious children is. Training classes will be held Jan. 20-21 and Jan. 27-28 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center. To register for the class, or for more information, contact Rodewald at (936) 468-1832 or by e-mail at erodewald@sfasu.edu. SFA Gardens volunteer Marybeth Hagood, pictured, checks water quality at the SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center with local elementary school students.