The passion for affecting positive change in Inyo and Mono County has earned the Master Gardeners there the honor of being named the Community Group of the Year in 2010. The Master Gardeners in that county are a fairly new group with their first class training held in 2009-2010. However, they are a very enthusiastic group with inspiring goals and ambitions that are clearly aligned with the ANR Strategic Initiatives. In a very short time and in a small community, they are up to 80 Master Gardeners. Their main projects are really focused on sustainable food systems which is especially important because of the isolation factor for many of the residents. It is a two hour or more drive to the closest Costco! They have worked extensively with Easter Sierra Harvest and Plant-A-Row, and are developing a community/ demonstration garden. In addition, they are teaching classes in the community, focused on sustainable food growing and collaborating with a variety of groups in the county. To quote Kerry Lozito, one of the volunteer coordinators of the group, "It's not about getting the training and going back home to grow pretty roses.” “It's about giving back." Congratulations to Inyo Mono County Master Gardeners!!!