SYMPOSIUM

Rick is the owner/operator of Orchard Hill Farms in Kendallville, IN. He brings years of practical, hands-on experience in growing and harvesting a variety of fruits primarily for the wholesale market. Rick is a frequent guest speaker for Purdue Extension Master Gardener Basic Training on the topic of fruit trees.

Jason is a certified horticulturist, and a third-generation owner/operator of Fashion Farm Inc. in Lingonier, which includes Countryscapes Gardens. Countryscapes is a local Proven Winners professional grower of annuals and perennials.

Karen has served as Purdue University’s Consumer Horticulture Extension Specialist since 2021. She holds a bachelor’s degree in applied horticulture and horticultural business services and a master’s degree in botany and plant pathology from Purdue. She has been a guest speaker at the Indiana Flower and Patio Show and hosted many hands-on workshops for Indiana gardeners.

John is the Purdue Extension Educator and Master Gardener Coordinator for Whitley County and has years of experience helping farmers and gardeners improve their operations. He is a 28-year Extension Educator with Purdue Extension and has been in Whitley County since 2014.

Kim Jewell joined the Whitley County Master Gardeners after completing the class in Dec. 2010.  She lives with her husband, Steve and their furry children in Columbia City, IN. She enjoys growing vegetables and flowers and enhancing her landscape.