(Lawrenceville, Ga., Nov. 17,  2015) – Gwinnett County Master Gardeners Association (GCMGA) received the Volunteer award from the Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) during the group’s annual conference held Nov. 2–5 in Dalton, Ga. for working with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation (GCPR) since 1999 averaging 1000 hours per year.

“Their enduring service has made significant, meaningful and lasting contributions to GCPR” said Tina Fleming, Division Director of Operations. This dedicated group improves and adds to the beautification of the parks, participates in major events, teaches classes, leads special needs students and cares for the demonstration gardens. GCMGA volunteer have worked with GCPR since 1999 on improving and adding to the beautification of the parks, participating in major events, teaching classes, leading special needs students and caring for the demonstration gardens.

Master Gardeners have revitalized wildlife areas, re-established a Brook garden and regularly served as stewards of the environment by utilizing native plants and best environmental practices. Volunteers serve as ambassadors to the public of Gwinnett County on horticultural practices that foster beautiful gardens and healthy environments.

GCPR is fortunate to be selected as the fruit of their labors and the beautification of Vines Park which received the Honor Award by the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) in the Society's 2015 Green Star Awards competition this year. GCMGA accepted the PGMS Honor Award at the group’s annual banquet on Nov. 16 at Bethesda Park Senior Center. For information on volunteering with GCMGA, visit www.gwinnettmastergardeners.com. For information on various programs and events with GCPR, visit www.gwinnettparks.com.