Sixteen new interns prepare to volunteer their time to the community as horticulture advisors and resource people after graduating from the Washington State University Clallam County Master Gardener training program on Tuesday, May 1.

Interns include Jim Lamont, Janet Lamont, Wendy Yada, Rosanna Yates-Bailey, Audreen Williams, Anne Smokler, David Rambin, Judith Sigsbee, Shannon Slattery, Bruce Pape, Dee Sudduth, Chuck Lamb, Jan Bartron, Jon Bugher, Beth Bugher and Ken Hobson.

Each intern donates 100 hours of work at plant clinics, demonstration gardens and other activities aimed at helping local residents address gardening needs on the Olympic Peninsula.

Trainees received instruction in botany, entomology, soil science and pest management and have learned to identify plants, diagnose plant problems and resolve problems in effective and sustainable ways.

Clallam County Master Gardeners, a cooperative program between Washington State University and Clallam County, provides up-to-date, scientifically supported information on sustainable gardening practices. Master Gardener volunteers also address environmental and social priorities, protection of water quality, reducing impact of invasive species and healthy living through gardening.

For more information, call Muriel Nesbitt, Master Gardener program coordinator at 360-565-2679.